HOW TO PAY FOR STUDY ABROAD
 

Gilman Scholarship

The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program offers a fantastic opportunity to fund your international education. Applications are now open for the summer semester.

WHY APPLY?
• Financial Support: If chosen you can receive up to $5,000 to assist with expenses.

ELIGIBILITY:
• U.S. citizen undergraduate students.
• Federal Pell Grant recipients.
• Participating in a Study Abroad program

IMPORTANT DATES:
• Application Deadline: Thursday October 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM Pacific Time.

NEXT STEPS:
1. Review Eligibility: Confirm you meet the criteria.
2. Prepare Application: Gather transcripts, draft essays, and obtain recommendations.
3. Submit Application: Complete and submit by the deadline.
For detailed information and to apply, visit the Gilman Scholarship Deadlines & Timeline page.

Pell Grants

WHAT IS A PELL GRANT?
Federal Pell Grants are awarded to undergraduate students who display exceptional financial need (according to the FAFSA) and are working towards their first bachelor's degree.

HOW MUCH MONEY CAN I GET?

Amounts can change yearly.  The maximum Federal Pell Grant award is $7,395 for the 2026-2027 award year (July 1st 2026 to June 30th 2027).  The amount you get, though, will depend on

• Your Expected Family Contribution
• The Cost of Attendance (determined by your school for your specific program),
• Your status as a full-time or part-time student,
• Your plans to attend school for a full academic year or less.

CAN I USE A PELL GRANT FOR A SUMMER STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM?

In order to be considered for a summer Pell grant, you need to be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours that apply towards your degree, and you must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress at the end of the spring semester.

Please note that Financial Aid does not calculate summer awards prior to summer enrollment. Once enrolled and awarded, students will be notified.

FEDERAL LOANS

Federal Loans can be used toward studying abroad during the spring and fall semesters.  Federal Loans can only be used toward summer programs if the student has not used their loan money during the fall & spring semesters.

Support Raising for Your Study Abroad Program

Raising financial support can help make your study abroad experience possible. Start by building a list of family, friends, church members, mentors, and other connections who may be willing to support you. A personal message that clearly shares your study abroad opportunity, financial need, and fundraising goal can make a meaningful difference. For practical tips, fundraising ideas, and a sample support letter, view the full Support Raising Guide.