Your Guide to Study Abroad Scholarships

Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity that can have an immense impact in your life. From the people you meet, cultures you learn to appreciate and the adventures that await, it is an experience that can have truly lasting effects on your personal and professional development.

As you start to explore opportunities, cost is often a major consideration. That’s why it’s good to know there are scholarships and financing options that help make this experience closer within reach.

This guide explains different types of study abroad scholarships and what they cover, and how IFSA can help support you on your journey.

What are study abroad scholarships?

Like a scholarship you might use to help cover for your college or university tuition, a scholarship for studying abroad is a financial award given to students with the intention of it being used to finance a study abroad experience. These awards put study abroad experiences within reach for more students.  

Types of study abroad scholarships

There are many types of study abroad scholarships designed for different students and their situations. Some of the more common examples include:

• Need-based scholarships. These are awarded to students based on financial need, to make study abroad more within reach, regardless of socioeconomic status
• Location-based scholarships. These are financial awards specifically for students who want to study abroad in a specific country or participate in a program offered in a particular location. If you are unsure of your study abroad destination, reviewing these opportunities can help you narrow down your options.
• Competitive scholarships. These are scholarships awarded to students based on merit or achievement, such as academic prestige, leadership,  or service to your  community. 

How to find scholarships to study abroad

The best place to find scholarships to fund your study abroad experience is to research and review the opportunities you qualify for. As mentioned above, there are many scholarships available, from programs and fields of study to specific destinations or scholarships to support your background as a student. 

Start by researching what scholarships you do and do not qualify for and get a sense of where you might want to go. Get in touch with IFSA to explore your options and talk with our study abroad office for additional information and guidance.

When applying for a competitive scholarship like the Boren Award, Gilman International Scholarship, or Freeman Asia Scholarship, it is important to remember that there are a few elements that are often part of the process. You should plan on needing to:

• Write a personal statement
• Complete online applications
• Attain a recommendation letter from a professor or advisor
• Coordinate with your study abroad office and advisor 

“One of the biggest concerns I had before studying abroad was money. As a first-generation student on academic scholarship, I don’t have the safety net of parents who could easily cover unexpected expenses.” – Alyssa H, University of Galway Partnership 

Study abroad scholarships offered by IFSA

At IFSA, we offer scholarships for many different situations, so more students can access the benefits of studying abroad. From destination-specific awards to need-based scholarships, in 2023–2024 alone, we delivered $1.22 million in scholarships and grants. In fact, one in three IFSA applicants receives funding through scholarships. IFSA scholarships include: 

• IFSA General Scholarships. Open to all students. Just access the IFSA Scholarship Instructions and Application in the IFSA Student Portal after  you have started an application to study abroad with IFSA.
• IFSA First-Generation Scholarships. Includes awards up to $1,500 for January Term and Summer Term programs, and $2,500 for Semester and Academic/Calendar Year programs.
• IFSA Gilman International Matching Scholarships. For students who have been awarded Pell grants. Includes up to $2,500 to study abroad for a semester with IFSA.
• IFSA location-specific scholarships. Know where you want to study? Review our list to see if there’s a university offering support for U.S. students on our website. The University of Adelaide in Australia offers a $2,000 semester scholarship, for example, and University of St Andrews in Scotland offers up to £4,000. 

For more information about the scholarships above, as well as application deadlines view our scholarships, grants and financial aid page.

Additionally, take a look at our guide that explores the costs of studying abroad and how you can budget for your experience. 

Why making study abroad more accessible matters

At IFSA, our mission is to make study abroad as accessible as possible. Cost should never stand in the way of a transformative international experience. We’re proud to support students from all backgrounds in achieving their dreams.

Start your journey

Studying abroad during college or university is one of the biggest decisions you can make for your personal growth and academic journey. It is a transformative experience that builds independence, boosts your confidence, and connects you with places and individuals that can stay with you throughout your life.

With multiple financing options available, studying abroad can be more achievable than you think. With various pathways and destinations to choose from, it is an opportunity that is waiting to be explored.

Let us help. Start by visiting our program search to find the best-fit program for you.