Financial Aid and Funding for International Exchange
Take advantage of funded programs and fellowships, scholarships and loans, fundraising strategies, and government assistance programs. How will you cover YOUR exchange-related expenses?
Individuals with disabilities can fund international exchange in many ways. Although there are some funding resources available exclusively to people with disabilities, don't stop there! Most scholarships and funded programs encourage people from diverse backgrounds to apply, so expand your search!
Funding Your Exchange
Jump to a section below to get detailed tipsheets on four main funding sources:
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Funded programs and fellowships are exchanges that include funding.
- Scholarships, grants and loans can be used towards most exchange programs of your choice.
- Fundraising and cost-saving tips help you raise and save money.
- Certain US government programs and services, such as Social Security Income, Vocational Rehabilitation, or US Veterans benefits may be used towards exchange.
Funded Exchange Programs and Fellowships
If you have not yet decided on an exchange program, consider applying for a program that includes full or partial funding.
Fully or partially-funded programs for professional development.
Find out if you qualify for Fulbright, funded youth exchanges, and other U.S. Department of State programs.
Learn how other people with disabilities funded their international exchange experiences.
Scholarships, Grants and Loans
Financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants and loans can usually be applied towards the exchange program of your choice.
Learn who awards scholarships and loans and where to find them. Includes links to online search engines.
This non-exhaustive list includes region-specific, disability-specific, and other scholarships.
Fundraising and Cost-Saving Strategies
Learn from other exchange participants how to raise money and save on costs for study or volunteering abroad.
Read Chapter 2, Part 2 on Fundraising: How to Finance Your Program Participation.
Use this form to help you organize your estimated expenses and create a realistic budget.
Government Programs and Services in the United States
Some Americans with disabilities who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can apply these funds towards international exchange. American citizens may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation (VR) funding through state VR employment services.
How the GI Bill benefits can be used to help cover the cost of certain study abroad activities for American veterans.
