The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship is a U.S. government-funded program that provides financial support to undergraduates who want to study or intern abroad but might not have the financial means to do so. This scholarship aims to diversify the students who study abroad and the countries where they go. In this article, we’ll explore what the Gilman Scholarship is, its benefits, the application process, and some real-world examples of how it can transform your educational journey. We’ll also compare other similar scholarships to help you make an informed decision.
What is the Gilman Scholarship?
The Gilman Scholarship was established in 2001 by the U.S. Department of State to encourage students with limited financial means to study abroad. It offers awards of up to $5,000 for U.S. undergraduates receiving Pell Grants, with an additional $3,000 available for students studying a critical need language.
Key Features of the Gilman Scholarship:
- Financial Support: Awards up to $5,000, with a possible additional $3,000 for studying a critical need language.
- Eligibility: Open to U.S. undergraduate students who are Pell Grant recipients.
- Focus on Diversity: Aims to diversify the students who study abroad and the countries they visit.
- Broad Range of Destinations: Supports study or internship in any country except those under a U.S. travel advisory.
Benefits of the Gilman Scholarship
- Financial Support: Helps cover costs associated with studying abroad, including tuition, airfare, and living expenses.
- Global Exposure: Provides an opportunity to experience different cultures and enhance global understanding.
- Career Advancement: Improves language skills, intercultural competence, and overall employability.
- Personal Growth: Encourages self-reliance, adaptability, and confidence.
- Support for Non-Traditional Destinations: Offers funding for students to study in diverse and less commonly chosen destinations.
Top 15 Study Abroad Programs with the Gilman Scholarship
Here are some popular study abroad programs that align well with the goals of the Gilman Scholarship. These programs are known for providing valuable international experiences, academic rigor, and robust support systems.
1. CIEE Study Abroad
- Locations: Multiple countries including Spain, Japan, and South Africa.
- Features: Language immersion, cultural activities, and internships.
- Benefits: Comprehensive support and scholarships for Gilman scholars.
2. IES Abroad
- Locations: 34 cities in 21 countries.
- Features: Field trips, cultural activities, and language courses.
- Benefits: Additional scholarships and financial aid available for Gilman scholars.
3. API Abroad
- Locations: Over 50 cities in 29 countries.
- Features: Academic excellence, cultural immersion, and volunteer opportunities.
- Benefits: Financial support and personalized advising for Gilman recipients.
4. Semester at Sea
- Locations: Various global ports.
- Features: Multinational voyage visiting multiple countries.
- Benefits: Unique learning environment and additional scholarships for Gilman students.
5. University of East Anglia
- Location: United Kingdom
- Features: Strong focus on environmental science and creative writing.
- Benefits: Tailored support and financial aid options for Gilman scholars.
6. American University in Cairo
- Location: Egypt
- Features: Courses in Middle Eastern studies, Arabic language, and international relations.
- Benefits: Additional funding and support for Gilman recipients.
7. SIT Study Abroad
- Locations: Over 30 countries.
- Features: Thematic programs focusing on critical global issues.
- Benefits: Additional scholarships and funding for Gilman students.
8. University of Melbourne
- Location: Australia
- Features: Broad range of academic disciplines and vibrant campus life.
- Benefits: Support for Gilman scholars through the university’s international office.
9. Korea University
- Location: South Korea
- Features: Strong programs in business, engineering, and Korean language.
- Benefits: Additional funding and advising for Gilman scholars.
10. IES Global Internships
- Locations: 14 global cities.
- Features: Professional internships paired with academic courses.
- Benefits: Career services and additional funding for Gilman scholars.
11. Florence University of the Arts
- Location: Italy
- Features: Courses in arts, humanities, and culinary studies.
- Benefits: Cultural activities and financial support for Gilman recipients.
12. DIS Copenhagen
- Location: Denmark
- Features: Academic excellence with a focus on sustainability and social sciences.
- Benefits: Additional support for Gilman scholars.
13. Pontifical Catholic University of Chile
- Location: Chile
- Features: Strong programs in social sciences, environmental studies, and Spanish language.
- Benefits: Support for Gilman scholars through the international office.
14. University of the South Pacific
- Location: Fiji
- Features: Focus on Pacific studies, environmental science, and sustainable development.
- Benefits: Tailored support for Gilman scholars.
15. AIFS Study Abroad
- Locations: Multiple countries.
- Features: Cultural immersion, internships, and academic excellence.
- Benefits: Scholarships and additional financial aid for Gilman scholars.
4. 🏆 Comparison Table of Top Study Abroad Programs for Gilman Scholars
| Program | Location | Key Features | Advantages | Drawbacks | Application Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CIEE Study Abroad | Multiple Countries | Language immersion, internships | Comprehensive support, scholarships available | High program cost without scholarships | Apply Now |
| IES Abroad | 34 cities in 21 countries | Field trips, language courses | Robust support network, scholarships | Competitive application process | Apply Now |
| API Abroad | 50 cities in 29 countries | Cultural immersion, volunteering | Personalized advising, financial support | Limited spaces for some destinations | Apply Now |
| Semester at Sea | Various global ports | Multinational voyage, unique learning | Unmatched global experience, additional funds | Limited financial aid, competitive admission | Apply Now |
| University of East Anglia | United Kingdom | Environmental science, creative writing | Strong academics, Gilman support | Limited spots for U.S. students | Apply Now |
| American University in Cairo | Egypt | Middle Eastern studies, Arabic | Additional funding, supportive environment | Safety concerns in the region | Apply Now |
| SIT Study Abroad | 30+ countries | Thematic programs, global issues | Additional scholarships, focused learning | Field-based learning may not suit all students | Apply Now |
| University of Melbourne | Australia | Broad academic disciplines, vibrant campus | Robust support, diverse courses | High living costs in Australia | Apply Now |
| Korea University | South Korea | Business, engineering, language | Strong academics, Gilman support | Competitive admission process | Apply Now |
| IES Global Internships | 14 global cities | Professional internships, academics | Career services, additional funding | Requires strong academic performance | Apply Now |
| Florence University of the Arts | Italy | Arts, humanities, culinary studies | Cultural immersion, financial support | Limited spots available | Apply Now |
| DIS Copenhagen | Denmark | Sustainability, social sciences | Academic excellence, additional support | High cost of living in Copenhagen | Apply Now |
| Pontifical Catholic University of Chile | Chile | Social sciences, environmental studies | Strong academics, Gilman support | Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers | Apply Now |
| University of the South Pacific | Fiji | Pacific studies, environmental science | Unique learning environment, Gilman support | Limited course offerings | Apply Now |
| AIFS Study Abroad | Multiple Countries | Cultural immersion, internships | Scholarships, financial aid for Gilman scholars | Competitive admission process | Apply Now |
5. 📋 How to Apply for the Gilman Scholarship
- Check Eligibility Requirements: Ensure you are a U.S. citizen, an undergraduate student, and a Pell Grant recipient.
- Choose a Study Abroad Program: Select a program that is at least three weeks long in a country not under a Level 3 or 4 travel advisory.
- Prepare Your Application Materials: You’ll need your transcripts, financial aid statement, and a statement of purpose.
- Submit the Application Online: Apply through the Gilman Scholarship Application Portal.
- Attend Interviews (if required): Some applications may require an interview or additional documents.
Apply Now to start your journey towards a life-changing study abroad experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is eligible for the Gilman Scholarship?
Any U.S. undergraduate student who is a recipient of the Pell Grant is eligible to apply.
2. How much financial aid can I receive?
You can receive up to $5,000, with an additional $3,000 if you’re studying a critical need language.
3. What kind of study abroad programs are eligible?
Programs must be at least three weeks long and in a country not under a Level 3 or 4 travel advisory.
4. Can I apply for the Gilman Scholarship more than once?
Yes, you can apply for the scholarship again if you weren’t selected in previous cycles, or if you’re planning another qualifying study abroad experience.
5. When are the application deadlines?
The deadlines vary, but typically there are two application cycles: one in March and another in October.
With this comprehensive guide, you’re well-prepared to apply for the Gilman Scholarship and embark on an enriching global adventure!