The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program represents a significant stride towards diversifying the kinds of U.S. undergraduate students who study and intern abroad and the countries and regions where they go.
This article delves deep into the mechanics, benefits, and application process of the Gilman Scholarship, providing prospective applicants with the essential insights to enhance their chances of success.
What is the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship?
Established by the U.S. Department of State and named after the late congressman Benjamin A. Gilman, the scholarship aims to diversify the students who study and intern abroad. It offers grants for U.S. undergraduate students of limited financial means to pursue academic studies or credit-bearing, career-oriented internships abroad. The goal is to prepare students to thrive in the global economy and interconnect with different cultures—a testament to Congressman Gilman’s belief in the transformative power of international education.
Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship Description:
Benjamin A. Gilman International USA Scholarships 2024/2025/2026. is open for Domestic Students . The scholarship allows Bachelor level programm(s) in the field of STEM Field taught at USA Universities . The deadline of the scholarship is 31 Oct 2025.
Degree Level:
Benjamin A. Gilman International USA Scholarships 2024/2025/2026. is available to undertake Bachelor level programs at USA Universities.
Available Subjects:
Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.
- STEM Field
Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship Benefits:
Financial Assistance:
- Grants of up to $5,000 available.
- Additional funding for proficiency in critical need languages.
Competitive Advancement:
- Elevates your resume, providing a noteworthy edge.
- Potential to enhance opportunities for future jobs or graduate school.
Professional Development:
- Facilitates significant global insight.
- Cultivates cultural understanding and fosters adaptability skills.
Federal Pathways:
- Recipients attain non-competitive eligibility for select federal government positions.
Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship Eligibility Criteria:
The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program is a prestigious initiative under the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. This program aims to provide financial support to eligible undergraduate students pursuing educational experiences abroad. Here are the key eligibility criteria and guidelines for aspiring Gilman Scholars:
- Citizenship Requirement:
- Must be a citizen or national of the United States.
- Academic Status:
- Should be an undergraduate student in good standing enrolled at an accredited institution of higher education in the United States. This includes both two-year and four-year institutions.
- Financial Aid Eligibility:
- Must be receiving a Federal Pell Grant during the application period or provide credible evidence that they will be awarded a Pell Grant during the term of their study abroad program or internship.
- Study Abroad Program or Internship:
- Should be in the process of applying to or have been accepted into a credit-bearing study abroad or internship program.
- Proof of program acceptance is a prerequisite before the disbursement of the award.
- Travel Advisory Level:
- Applicants must be applying for credit-bearing study abroad programs in a country or location 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, certain areas within it might be designated as Level 3 or Level 4. Gilman scholars are restricted from traveling to these specific areas.
- Gilman scholars cannot participate in programs located in a country, location, or designated area within a country with a Travel Advisory Level 3 (“Reconsider travel to”) or Level 4 (“Do not travel to”).
Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship Application Procedure:
Gilman International Scholarship Application Process
Step 1: Submit Your Application by the Student Deadline
Ensure a successful application by completing the following critical components:
- Statement of Purpose and Community Impact Essays:
- Craft thoughtful essays addressing your purpose for studying abroad and the community impact of your experience.
- Transcripts:
- Provide both unofficial and official transcripts.
- Acceptance of both types ensures flexibility for applicants.
- Refer to the PDF version of the online application for guidance.
- Note: Only applications submitted through the online portal will be considered.
Step 2: Certification by Study Abroad and Financial Aid Advisors
To move forward, both Study Abroad and Financial Aid Certifying Advisors must certify your application by the advisor deadline. Follow these guidelines:
- Responsibility of the Applicant:
- Ensure both advisors certify your application by the advisor deadline.
- It is your responsibility to contact the relevant offices at your home institution to identify the correct study abroad and financial aid certifying advisors for your application.
- Advisor Listing:
- If an advisor is not listed within the online application, reach out to the appropriate advisor(s) at your institution.
- Ask them to register as a Gilman advisor before the application deadline.
- Once registered, you can select your institution and advisors in your application.
- Mandatory Certification:
- Applications lacking certifications will not be considered for the Gilman International Scholarship.
- Applicant Checklists:
- Review the applicant checklists for the Gilman and Gilman McCain Scholarships before initiating your application.
Important Note:
- The success of your application hinges on meeting both student and advisor deadlines and ensuring thorough completion of all components.
- Familiarize yourself with the online portal for seamless submission.
Gilman Scholarship Deadlines & Overview: March 2024 Deadline
- Application Open:
- Mid-January 2024
- Student Deadline:
- March 7, 2024, 11:59pm PT
- Advisor Certification Deadline:
- March 14, 2024, 11:59pm PT
- Email Notifications:
- May 2024
- Eligible Programs & Terms:
- In-person programs from May 1, 2024, to April 30, 2025.
- Terms: Summer 2024, Fall 2024, Academic Year 2024-2025, Spring 2025
- Re-application Option:
- If not selected, eligible for the next cycle.
October 2024 Deadline Overview
- Application Open:
- Mid-August 2024
- Student Deadline:
- October 10, 2024, 11:59pm PT
- Advisor Certification Deadline:
- October 18, 2024, 11:59pm PT
- Email Notifications:
- December 2024
- Eligible Programs & Terms:
- In-person programs from December 1, 2024, to October 31, 2025.
- Terms: Winter/January 2025, Spring/Maymester 2025, Summer 2025, Fall 2025, Academic Year 2025-2026
- Re-application Option:
- If not selected, eligible for the next cycle.
Important Notes:
- Apply according to program dates.
- Deadlines in Pacific Time (PT).
- Late applications not accepted.
- Notifications via email.
- Re-apply if eligibility is maintained.
Summary of Application Process:
- Application Cycle Opens
- Students Submit Applications
- Study Abroad and Financial Aid Advisors Certification
- Gilman Program Eligibility Screening
- Selection Panelists Recommendations
- U.S. Department of State Review and Approval
- Award Notifications by Gilman Program
Final Thoughts
The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship is a transformative opportunity that opens doors to new possibilities. It not only eases the financial burden of studying abroad but also enriches your education, enhances your employability, and expands your world view. If you’re dreaming of studying abroad, the Gilman Scholarship might just be the key to turning those dreams into reality.
Start your application today, and take the first step towards an unforgettable adventure that will set you apart in the global job market. Remember, the world is your classroom—embrace it with open arms and an open mind.
