USA Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships

The USA Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships for 2024/2025/2026 offer an incredible opportunity for U.S. students pursuing a Bachelor’s degree, especially those in the STEM fields, to study at universities across the United States. These scholarships are designed to support students financially while enriching their educational and cultural experiences.

Degree Level:

This scholarship is specifically for students enrolled in Bachelor’s degree programs at universities in the USA.

Eligible Fields of Study:

The scholarship covers programs in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.

Benefits:

• Financial Assistance: Receive up to $5,000 in grants.
• Additional Funding: Extra support available for those proficient in critical need languages.
• Competitive Edge: Boost your resume with a prestigious scholarship, potentially opening doors for future job opportunities or graduate school.
• Professional Growth: Gain valuable global insight, cultural understanding, and adaptability skills.
• Federal Career Opportunities: Scholarship recipients may qualify for non-competitive eligibility for certain federal government positions.

Eligibility:

This scholarship is available to U.S. citizens or nationals.

Application Deadline:

Make sure to apply by October 31, 2025 to be considered for this prestigious scholarship.

Eligibility Criteria:

The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program is a distinguished initiative under the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. This program provides financial support for undergraduate students to pursue educational experiences abroad. Below are the key eligibility criteria for aspiring Gilman Scholars:

Citizenship Requirement:

• Must be a U.S. citizen or national.

Academic Status:

• Undergraduate Enrollment: Must be an undergraduate student in good academic standing at an accredited U.S. institution of higher education. This includes both two-year and four-year institutions.

Financial Aid Eligibility:

• Pell Grant Recipient: Must be receiving a Federal Pell Grant during the application period or provide evidence that they will be awarded a Pell Grant during the term of their study abroad program or internship.

Study Abroad Program or Internship:

• Program Application: Must be in the process of applying to or have been accepted into a credit-bearing study abroad or internship program.
• Proof of Acceptance: Proof of program acceptance is required before the scholarship award is disbursed.

Travel Advisory Level:

• Travel Advisory Compliance: Applicants must apply for programs in countries or locations with an overall Travel Advisory Level 1 or 2 according to the U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisory System.
  • Note: While a country or location may have an overall Travel Advisory Level 1 or 2, some areas within it might be designated as Level 3 or Level 4. Gilman Scholars are prohibited from traveling to these specific high-risk areas.
  • Prohibited Travel: Gilman Scholars cannot participate in programs located in any country, location, or designated area with a Travel Advisory Level 3 (“Reconsider travel to”) or Level 4 (“Do not travel to”).

These criteria are designed to ensure that the scholarship supports students who are committed to safe and academically enriching international experiences.

Application Procedure:

Applying for the Gilman International Scholarship involves a detailed process to ensure all components are successfully submitted. Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Submit Your Application by the Student Deadline

To submit a strong application, complete the following key components:

• Statement of Purpose and Community Impact Essays:
  • Write compelling essays that clearly articulate your reasons for studying abroad and how your experience will impact your community.
• Transcripts:
  • Submit both unofficial and official transcripts to provide a complete academic record.
  • Refer to the PDF version of the online application for guidance on submitting your transcripts.
  • Note: Only applications submitted through the online portal will be considered.

Step 2: Certification by Study Abroad and Financial Aid Advisors

For your application to be considered, it must be certified by both your Study Abroad and Financial Aid Advisors by the advisor deadline. Follow these steps:

• Applicant Responsibilities:
  • It is your responsibility to ensure that both advisors certify your application on time.
  • Contact the appropriate offices at your home institution to identify your Study Abroad and Financial Aid Certifying Advisors.
• Advisor Listing:
  • If an advisor is not listed in the online application, reach out to them directly.
  • Ask them to register as a Gilman Advisor before the application deadline.
  • Once they are registered, you can select your institution and advisors in your application.
• Mandatory Certification:
  • Applications that are not certified by the required advisors will not be considered for the scholarship.
• Applicant Checklists:
  • Review the applicant checklists for both the Gilman and Gilman McCain Scholarships before you begin your application.

Important Note

The success of your application depends on meeting both the student and advisor deadlines and ensuring that all components are thoroughly completed. Familiarize yourself with the online portal for a smooth submission process.

Gilman Scholarship Deadlines & Overview

March 2024 Deadline

• Application Opens: Mid-January 2024
• Student Deadline: March 7, 2024, by 11:59 PM PT
• Advisor Certification Deadline: March 14, 2024, by 11:59 PM PT
• Email Notifications: May 2024
• Eligible Programs & Terms:
  • In-person programs from May 1, 2024, to April 30, 2025.
  • Terms include Summer 2024, Fall 2024, Academic Year 2024-2025, and Spring 2025.
• Re-application Option: If not selected, you can reapply for the next cycle.

October 2024 Deadline Overview

• Application Opens: Mid-August 2024
• Student Deadline: October 10, 2024, by 11:59 PM PT
• Advisor Certification Deadline: October 18, 2024, by 11:59 PM PT
• Email Notifications: December 2024
• Eligible Programs & Terms:
  • In-person programs from December 1, 2024, to October 31, 2025.
  • Terms include Winter/January 2025, Spring/Maymester 2025, Summer 2025, Fall 2025, and Academic Year 2025-2026.
• Re-application Option: If not selected, you can reapply for the next cycle.

Important Notes

• Apply according to your program dates.
• All deadlines are in Pacific Time (PT).
• Late applications will not be accepted.
• Notifications will be sent via email.
• If you maintain eligibility, you can reapply if not selected.

Summary of Application Process

To successfully complete your Gilman Scholarship application, follow these seven steps:

1. Application Cycle Opens
2. Students Submit Applications
3. Study Abroad and Financial Aid Advisors Certification
4. Gilman Program Eligibility Screening
5. Selection Panelists Recommendations
6. U.S. Department of State Review and Approval
7. Award Notifications by Gilman Program

Follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful application submission. Best of luck!

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