The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program, established by the U.S. Department of State, empowers students with limited financial means to pursue study or internship opportunities abroad. Since 2001, the program has enabled thousands of undergraduates, especially those from underrepresented groups, first-generation college students, and rural communities, to gain critical skills essential to U.S. national security and economic prosperity.
The Gilman International Scholarship Program not only provides financial support but also encourages students to immerse themselves in diverse cultures, languages, and academic environments. It emphasizes study and research in areas crucial to national security, such as STEM fields and critical languages, ensuring that participants contribute to broader U.S. government goals while enriching their academic experiences. Veterans are also given preference, recognizing their unique perspectives.
Beyond financial aid, the Gilman Scholarship offers recipients Noncompetitive Eligibility (NCE) for federal employment, a significant advantage in the job market. NCE allows alumni to be considered for federal jobs without the traditional competitive hiring process, streamlining their path to employment in the U.S. government. This feature highlights the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program’s commitment to preparing the next generation of American leaders, equipped with global competencies to represent U.S. interests abroad.
Quick Overview of the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program 2025
- Host Country: Various international locations (must be a Travel Advisory Level 1 or 2 countries)
- Host Institution: Accredited institutions worldwide
- Application Deadline: October 10, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time
- Programs Covered:
- Credit-bearing study abroad programs
- International internships
- Scholarship Value: Up to $5,000, with additional funding available through the Critical Need Language Award (up to $3,000) and the STEM Supplemental Award (up to $1,000)
- Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens receiving a Federal Pell Grant during the time of application
Perks of the Scholarships for US Nationals
- The scholarship covers a wide range of expenses including program tuition, room and board, books, local transportation, insurance, international airfare, passport, and visa fees.
- Additional funding of up to $3,000 is available for students studying critical languages deemed important to national security.
- Up to $1,000 is available for students conducting STEM-related research as part of their study abroad or internship program.
- Under Executive Order 13750, Gilman scholars are granted 12 months of NCE status within the federal government, allowing them to apply for certain federal jobs outside the formal competitive hiring process. This status can be extended under specific conditions(NCE_Gilman).
Benefits of the Scholarship Program by US Department of State 2025
- Gain international exposure and enhance your global competencies by studying or interning in diverse regions.
- Utilize the NCE status to fast-track your entry into federal government jobs, providing a pathway to careers in public service.
- Develop language skills, cultural understanding, and professional networks that will benefit your academic and career pursuits.
- Engage in unique educational experiences in countries that are typically underrepresented in study abroad programs, including regions critical to U.S. interests.
Eligibility Criteria for the Scholarship Program
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
- Must be an undergraduate student in good standing at an accredited institution of higher education in the U.S.
- Must be receiving a Federal Pell Grant during the application period or provide proof that they will be receiving a Pell Grant during the term of their study abroad program or internship.
- Must be applying to or accepted into a credit-bearing study abroad or internship program in a country with a U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory Level 1 or 2. Note that specific areas within these countries may be restricted if they are designated Level 3 or 4.
Important Dates for the Gilman Scholarship Program 2025
- Application Deadline: October 10, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time
How to Apply for the Gilman Scholarship Program 2025
- Visit the Gilman Program Application Portal to create an account and begin your application.
- Fill out the online application form, including sections on personal information, academic background, and study abroad or internship plans.
- Submit documentation showing you are a current Pell Grant recipient or will be receiving a Pell Grant during your study abroad term.
- Provide information about your study abroad or internship program, including proof of acceptance or confirmation of application.
- Write and submit essays detailing your motivations for studying abroad, how the experience aligns with your academic and career goals, and your plan to give back to your community upon return.
- Carefully review your application for completeness and accuracy before submitting it by the deadline on October 10, 2024.
Required Documents for the Gilman Scholarship Program 2025
- Completed Online Application: Submitted through the Gilman Program portal.
- Proof of Pell Grant: Documentation verifying your status as a Pell Grant recipient.
- Study Abroad Program Details: Information about the program, including acceptance confirmation.
- Personal Essays: Two essays outlining your academic goals, reasons for studying abroad, and community impact plans.
Selection Criteria for the Gilman Scholarship Program 2025
- How the study abroad or internship experience will influence the student’s academic and career trajectory.
- The potential for the student to make a positive impact in their community upon return.
- The student’s academic record and readiness for the study abroad experience.
- Commitment to studying a critical need language or conducting STEM-related research.
For more information and to apply, visit the Gilman Scholarships website.
