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Financial Resources for U.S. Residents

by admin — last modified September 23, 2008 16:58

Financial aid publications, scholarship search engines, vocational rehabilitation and SSI information and international and local organizations offering scholarships, grants, and fellowships.

                      Financial Aid Cover Sheet       

Are you looking for resources to help fund your next international exchange experience?

Find resources for people with and without disabilities by browsing the six categories listed in this  Financial Resources for U.S. Residents tipsheet, including:

I.    The Foreign University

II.   Published Materials

III. International and Local Organizations

IV.  Vocational Rehabilitation Funding/SSI Funding

V.   Scholarship Search Engines

VI.  Funding Opportunities

It is often difficult for students to find funding for education abroad even though opportunities exist. This information sheet provides basic suggestions on where to begin the search for potential resources.  Since most scholarship opportunities target specific interests, institutions, disabilities or experiences, individuals should also utilize local community resources, financial aid offices and local libraries.

I. The Foreign University

One of the best ways to begin your search for financial aid information is to contact the financial aid office of the specific university you will be attending. They will be able to provide you with information about financial aid opportunities for foreign students.  Other departments and/or programs that can be of assistance are:

    • The International Student Office
    • The specific academic programs and/or departments pertaining to your major or minor course of study.  Departments offer a variety of awards, scholarships and assistantships.
    • University wide scholarships (information should be available through the financial aid department).
    • University loan programs that target international students.

II. Published Materials

Students interested in study abroad may want to consult reference books at their local libraries or U.S. Embassy Educational Advising Center for sources of financial aid. The following is a list of recommended books that may be available at your local library or which you can order from the publisher or from an online book service such as www.amazon.com:

III. International and Local Organizations

Students may also check with international and local organizations for scholarship opportunities. Contacting organizations that share your interests or experiences (i.e. religious organizations, ethnic or cultural organizations, community or international service groups) is recommended. A few suggestions are listed below:

  • The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International
    One Rotary Center
    1560 Sherman Avenue
    Evanston, IL 60201
    Tel: (847) 866-3000    Fax: (847) 328-8554 or (847) 328-8281
    Web: www.rotary.org/foundation 

    Rotary International Scholarships—offers Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholarships. Scholarships are offered to further international understanding and friendly relations among people of different countries. Recipients are expected to be outstanding ambassadors of goodwill through appearances before Rotary clubs, schools, civic organizations and other forums in the host country. They are also expected to share the experiences of understanding acquired during their period abroad with the people of their home countries.

    Academic-Year Ambassadorial Scholarships provide funding for one academic year of study in another country. This award is intended to help cover round-trip transportation, tuition, fees, room and board expenses, and some educational supplies.

    Multi-Year Ambassadorial Scholarships are for either two or three years of degree-oriented study in another country. A fgrant is provided per year to be applied toward the costs of a degree program.

    Cultural Ambassadorial Scholarships are for either three or six months of intensive language study and cultural immersion in another country and provide funds to cover round-trip transportation, language training expenses, and homestay living arrangements. Applications will be considered for candidates interested in studying Arabic, English, French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin Chinese, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swahili and Swedish.

    ELIGIBILITY: Scholarship candidates must be citizens of a country in which there is a Rotary club, and may apply through a Rotary club in their legal or permanent residence (or place of full-time study or employment). Scholarships are available to individuals of all ages, provided the candidate has completed at least two years of university coursework or equivalent professional experience prior to beginning scholarship studies. Spouses or descendants of Rotarians may not apply. Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
  • AAUW Educational Foundation
    1111 Sixteenth Street NW
    Washington, DC  20036
    Tel: (800) 326 2289
    Email: foundation@aauw.org     Web: www.aauw.org 

    The AAUW Educational Foundation—the largest source of funding exclusively for graduate women in the world, supports aspiring scholars around the globe, teachers and activists in local communities, women at critical stages of their careers and those pursuing professions where women are underrepresented. The foundation funds: groundbreaking research; fellowships and grants for outstanding women from around the globe; special awards; vital community action projects; and symposia, roundtables, and forums.
  • Soroptimist International of the Americas
    1709 Spruce Street
    Philadelphia, PA 19103-6103
    Tel: (215) 893 9000    Fax: (215) 893 5200
    Email: siahq@soroptimist.org  Web: www.soroptimist.org

    Soroptimist International—is a worldwide service organization dedicated to making a difference for women. They are involved in community service projects in the areas of economic and social development, education, the environment, human rights and the status of women, health, and international goodwill.
  • Lions Club International
    300 West 22nd Street
    Oak Brook, IL 60523-8842, USA
    Tel: (630) 571 5466    Fax: (630) 571 5735
    Email: lcif@lionsclubs.org   Web: www.lionsclubs.org/EN/index.shtml

    Lions Club International—awards financial assistance such as scholarships. They also provide funds for purchasing equipment.
  • Kiwanis International
    3636 Woodview Trace
    Indianapolis, IN 46268-3196, USA
    Tel: (317) 875-8755   Fax: (317) 879-0204
    Email: kiwanismail@kiwanis.org   Web: www.kiwanis.org 

    Kiwanis International Club—individual clubs may offer scholarships.
  • National Association of American Business Clubs (AMBUCS) 
    4285 Regency Court
    High Point, NC 27265, USA
    Tel: (336) 869 2166   Fax: (336) 887 8451
    Email: ambucs@ambucs.com   Web: www.ambucs.com 
  • State Commissions for people with disabilities are another potential resource for financial assistance toward international exchange. 

IV. Vocational Rehabilitation Funding/SSI Funding

  • Vocational Rehabilitation Funding Options for Study Abroad
    Some U.S. college and university students with disabilities receive funding for their education from State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) or (DVR) Departments.

    How to Request Vocational Rehabilitation Funds for Study Abroad
    Find a study abroad program that is related to your educational/vocational goal.
    Write a letter to the VR counselor about the program which clearly states how the study abroad experience will enhance your educational/vocational goals and employment
    Within the letter, list all the costs and expenses (request a budget from study abroad office) and include the amount you are able to financially contribute towards the costs
  • The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Study Abroad Provision

    The Social Security Handbook states: "A student of any age may be eligible for SSI benefits while temporarily outside the U.S. for the purpose of conducting studies that are not available in the U.S., are sponsored by an educational institution in the U.S., and are designed to enhance the student's ability to engage in gainful employment. Such a student must have been eligible to receive an SSI benefit for the month preceding the first full month outside the U.S."

    To receive SSI while studying abroad:
    · The required course of study must not be available in the United States
    · It must be sponsored by an educational institution in the United States
    · It must be designed to substantially enhance your ability to work
    · You must be eligible for SSI for the one month immediately prior to leaving the country
    · You must earn academic credits towards a degree while abroad
    · SSI benefits are available while studying abroad for up to one year
    . Ask your Benefits Specialist for more information
  • Read more about this subject by reading the transcript of the teleconference, Achieving Successful Transition and Employement through International Experiences featuring a social security representative, a vocational rehabilitation director, and a student who studied abroad using Vocational Rehabilitation funding
  • Pass Plans are also an option. Read the Using Social Security or Vocational Rehabilitation for Exchange brochure for more information. See the Social Security website for specifics on the study abroad determinations.

V. Scholarship Search Engines and Related Websites

A number of organizations are available to assist you in your search for scholarships - some have free services; others may be used for a fee.

  • College Connection—provides information on scholarships in the private sector for undergraduate and graduate students. Telephone: (302) 765 3880.
  • College-Scholarships.com is an all-purpose college and scholarship information site that includes links to nine free internet scholarship search databases, links to college websites and online applications. 
  • Drexel University has a long list of scholarships and fellowships are listed for U.S and international students.
  • Fastweb.com—provides a personalized search that will match your interests and abilities to their database of scholarships.  
  • FreSch—contains a specific page dedicated to international students. FreSch also provides information on eligibility to apply for federal financial aid.
  • FinAid—The Financial Aid Information Page provides free, detailed information on student financial aid.  
  • Get-Recruited.com offers students a chance to be recruited by, and perhaps offered scholarships to attend as undergraduate as well as graduate programs. 
  • International Education Financial Aid—has an on-line searchable database of scholarships for international education. This site contains useful information for students of all nationalities.  
  • InternationalScholarships—offers a free searchable database of scholarships, grants, and awards for students of all nationalities.
  • Institute of International Education  has created a directory iwth scholarships, grants, and fellowship information
  • The Learning Center at the University of Minnesota offers a searchable database of scholarships available for international exchange. The Foundation Center offers a database of foundation grants available to individuals. A fee is required to access the information. 
  • Michigan State University—this website features several financial aid resources for study abroad, including a useful brochure entitled, You Can’t Afford NOT To Go.  Also browse these MSU pages on financial resources:  www.lib.msu.edu/harris23/grants/3inttrav.htm, www.lib.msu.edu/harris23/grants/3disable.htm.
  • NAFSA—is an international exchange organization. Their website provides information on funding and tips for U.S. citizens studying abroad.
  • National Science Foundation—has an on-line version of their publication “A Selected List of Fellowship and Other Support Opportunities for Advanced Education for U.S. Citizens and Foreign Nationals.” This publication can also be obtained via email at info@nsf.gov.  
  • Proyecto Visión lists several scholarships, many specifically for Hispanic students with disabilities. They also offer a bi-monthly e-newsletters listing internship and scholarship opportunities for minorities.
  • Sallie Mae College Answer - offers general financial aid information and a searchable scholarship database. 
  • Scholarstuff.com—provides a comprehensive directory of college and university homepages around the world. It also gives helpful suggestions with regards to financial aid and funding.  
  • YouthActionNet—the site contains listings of grants and scholarships, many which may be used for study abroad.  Visit the website at: www.youthactionnet.org.
  • Student Loan Network - offers a free scholarship, loan and financial aid website.
  • StudyAbroad.com—this site offers links to several sources of financial aid for study abroad.  Click on “Site Menu” and follow the link to “Financial Aid.” 
  • United Cerebral Palsy has an extensive list of financial resources on their website.  
  • Women With Disabilities—provides an online list of publications and organizations that offer financial assistance to women with disabilities.  
  • The Council for Opportunity in Education offers a website with study abroad funding information and tips for people with disabilities.

VI. Funding Opportunities

A.  Scholarships Related to Education and Disability:

Some scholarships cannot be used for study abroad, but if international education is part of degree course-work or supports it and the student remains enrolled at the home institution throughout, some programs may consider funding the experience. Please clarify when applying.

  • Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (AG Bell)
    3417 Volta Place NW
    Washington, DC 20007-2778
    Tel:(202)337-5220   Fax:(202)337-8314
    TTY:(202)337-5221

    AG Bell offers several scholarships and financial aid listings for undergraduate and graduate study to individuals with pre-lingual hearing loss.
  • American Council for the Blind
    1155 15th Street NW, Suite 1004
    Washington, DC 20005
    Tel: (800) 424-8666 or (202) 467-5081
    Deadline: March 1

    The American Council of the Blind (ACB) awards scholarships annually to legally blind students in undergraduate, graduate, technical and vocational studies. Awards are for study in the United States. The scholarship awards range from $500 to $4,000. Many affiliates of the American Council of the Blind also offer scholarships to students in their states. International students may apply if they have a letter of acceptance from a college or university in the United States. For further information, please contact the local chapter of the American Council of the Blind or the ACB National Office.
  • American Foundation for the Blind
    11 Penn Plaza, Suite 300
    New York, NY 10001
    Tel: (800) 232-5463 or (212) 502-7661
    TTY: (212) 502-7662
    Email: afbinfo@afb.org     
    Deadline: March 31

    The American Foundation for the Blind offers several scholarships to students who are legally blind or have a visual acuity of 20/200 in the better eye with best correction or a visual field of no greater than 20 degrees.
  • Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER)
    1703 N. Neauregard Street, Suite 440
    Alexandria, VA 22311
    Tel: (877) 492 2708    Fax: (703) 671 6391
    Email: bsherr@aerbvi.org    
    Deadline: April 15

    AER offers two financial aid programs for people who are legally blind: the William and Dorothy Ferrell Scholarship and the Telesensory Scholarship. Applicants must be studying at the post secondary level for a career in the field services to people who are blind or visually impaired.  Scholarships are available in even-numbered years.
  • Associates to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Award of Excellence Scholarship
    555 East Wells Street, Suite 1100
    Milwaukee, WI 53202-3823 USA
    Tel:  (414) 272-6071
    Email info@aaaai.org
    Deadline: December 26
     
    Each scholarship is a one-time grant of $1000. Scholarship monies may only be used for or applied to tuition, books, and fees for a bona fide course of instruction at an accredited two-year or four-year college or university or accredited technical or vocational college or school. All high school seniors with documented asthma and who have achieved excellence in a wide variety of areas including academics, extra curricular activities and community service are eligible. In addition, students must also be United States or Canadian citizens.
  • Christian Record Services, Inc.
    4444 South 52nd Street
    Lincoln, NE 68516-1302, USA
    Tel: (402) 488-0981    Fax: (402) 488 7582
    Email: info@christianrecord.org 
    Deadline: April 1   

    Christian Record Services provides scholarships of about $500 each to students who are legally blind. Applicants must be planning an undergraduate program in the United States that will enable independence and self-support. Study abroad can be included if still enrolled at a U.S. institution. Non-U.S. citizens can apply if already in the United States receiving an education.
  • Council of Citizens with Low Vision International (CCLVI)
    1155 15th NW, Suite 1004 (affiliated with American Council of the Blind)
    Washington, DC 20005 USA
    Tel: (800) 733-2258
    Email: scholarship@cclvi.org
    Deadline: March 1 

The Council of Citizens with Low Vision (CCLVI) offers two scholarship programs. The Fred Scheigert scholarship Program is a competitive scholarship available to full-time college students with low vision, chosen from among those who meet the visual acuity and academic guidelines. The Carl Foley Graduate Scholarship Program is a program for graduate students attending one of several colleges and universities which offer a degree in the field of low vision. Applicants need not be visually impaired. Application is made through the school directly.  Guidelines, application forms, and certification of low vision  forms for each year are available January through March for downloading from the website.

  • Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
    6931 Arlington Road
    Bethesda, MD 20814
    Tel: (800) 344 4823 / (301) 951 4422  
    Fax: (301) 951 6378
    Email: info@cff.org      

    The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation offers several scholarships for individuals with cystic fibrosis to fund post-secondary education. 
  • Ethel Louis Armstrong Foundation
    2460 North Lake Avenue, PMB #128
    Altadena, CA  91001
    Tel: (626) 398-8840   Fax: (626) 398-8843
    Email: executivedirector@ela.org   

    The Ethel Louis Armstrong Foundation, Inc. offers scholarships to female graduate students with disabilities.  Scholarship applications can be downloaded from the website.
  • Gallaudet University Scholarships
    Gallaudet University
    Office of International Programs & Services
    HMB E-254
    800 Florida Avenue NE
    Washington, DC  20002-3695
    Tel: (202) 448 6950     Fax (202) 448 6954
    Email: global.education@gallaudet.edu     

    A variety of scholarships are available to deaf and hearing-impaired graduates of Gallaudet who wish to pursue graduate study abroad. Fellowships and merit awards are also available. Gallaudet also publishes National Information Center on Deafness:  Sources of Financial Assistance for Students Who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing, a useful resource for scholarship information.
  • Geoffrey Foundation
    PO Box 1112
    Ocean Avenue
    Kennebunkport, ME 04046
    Tel: (207) 967-5798

    The Geoffrey Foundation was established in 1989 to eliminate cost as a barrier for families who choose the Auditory-Verbal approach to education for their children with a hearing impairment. U.S. citizens considering study abroad may be considered for grants. Projects promoting awareness of the Auditory-Verbal approach have also been awarded support grants.
  • The George Washington University HEATH Resource Center
    2121 K Street NW, Suite 220
    Washington, DC 20037
    Tel: (800) 544 3284     Fax: (202) 973 0908
    Tel/TTY: (202) 973 0904
    Email: askheath@gwu.edu      

    For information on financial aid opportunities for students with disabilities, contact HEATH, the National Clearinghouse on Postsecondary Education for Individuals with Disabilities. The HEATH Resource Center annually publishes “Financial Aid For Students with Disabilities,” a comprehensive publication on this subject matter.
  • Gore Family Memorial Foundation
    Scholarship Coordinator
    4747 North Ocean Drive, #204
    Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308
    Tel: (954) 781-8634    Fax: (954) 781-8638

    Scholarships are available for U.S. students with severe physical disabilities.
  • Immune Deficiency Foundation Scholarship Program Serving Individuals and Families
    Immune Deficiency Foundation
    40 W. Chesapeake Ave. Suite 308
    Towson, MD 21204 USA
    Tel: (800) 296-4433
    Email: df@primaryimmune.org
     
    The Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF) awards scholarships to undergraduate students living with primary immune deficiency diseases.  IDF Scholarship Program is open to patients with a primary immune deficiency as classified by the World Health Organization. It is intended for undergraduate students attending or entering college or a technical training school.
  • Jewish Braille Institute International (JBI)
    110 East 30th Street
    New York, NY 10016
    Tel: (800) 433-1531 / (212) 889 2525 
    Fax (212) 689 3692

    Scholarships for blind and visually impaired students preparing for professional careers in Jewish service.
  • Lighthouse International
    111 East 59th Street
    New York, NY 10022-1202
    Tel: (800) 829-0500 or (212) 821-9200
    TTY: (212) 821-9713
    Email: info@lighthouse.org     
    Deadline: April 1

    Lighthouse, Inc. offers awards to college-bound high school seniors, undergraduate and graduate students who are legally blind. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, and reside and attend school in one of these states: NY, NJ, CT, PA, and New England States. Lighthouse, Inc. also offers Career Achievement Awards for exceptional employees, employers and self-employed individuals.
  • Lilly Awards Secretariat
    c/o Lilly Schizophrenia Reintegration Scholarship
    PMB 1167
    734 North LaSalle Street
    Chicago, IL 60610
    Tel: (800) 809-8202     Fax: (312) 664-5454
    Email: lillyscholarships@reintegration.com 
    Applications available after September

    Scholarships are available for students with schizophrenia and related disorders. Scholarships can be used for high school equivalencies, associate, undergraduate, graduate, trade or vocational programs-any certificate or degree program as long as it is an accredited program. Scholarship can be applied to study abroad if study abroad is part of coursework. Must be a U.S. resident to apply.
  • National Federation of the Blind
    1800 Johnson Street
    Baltimore, MD 21230
    Tel: (410) 659-9314   Fax: (410) 685-5653
    Email: nfb@nfb.org   

    The National Federation of the Blind offers financial assistance.  This financial assistance may be used for study abroad (NFB).
  • National Federation of the Blind Scholarship Committee
    805 Fifth Avenue
    Grinnell, IA 50112
    Tel: (641) 236-3369
    Email: nfb@nfb.org  
    Deadline: March 31  

    Each year the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) gives a broad array of scholarships to recognize achievement by blind scholars. All applicants for these scholarships must be legally blind and pursuing or planning to pursue a full-time postsecondary course of study. In particular, each year two dedicated and valued members of the NFB of Maryland provide the Michael and Marie Marucci Scholarship. The winner of this scholarship must be studying a foreign language or comparative literature; pursuing a degree in history, geography, or political science with a concentration in
    international studies; or majoring in any other discipline that involves study abroad. The winner’s file must also show evidence of competence in a foreign language. Contact this organization for more information.
  • National Hemophilia Foundation
    116 West 32nd Street, 11th Floor
    New York, NY 10001
    Tel: (800) 424-2634   Fax: (212) 328-3700
    Email: handi@hemophilia.org   

    Applicants should reside in the United States and the scholarship can be used for study abroad if program is part of coursework.
  • P. Buckley Moss Society
    601 Shenandoah Village Drive, Box 1C
    Waynesboro, VA 22980
    Tel: (540) 943-5678    Fax: (540) 949-8408
    Email: society@mosssociety.org    

    The P. Buckley Moss Society offers the Judith Cary Memorial Scholarship for students who are pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in teaching special needs students, and the Anne and Matt Harbison Award Scholarship for graduating high school seniors with a learning disability who have made arrangements to further their education. Scholarships can be used for study abroad if part of an education program.
  • The Paul G. Hearne/American Association of People with Disabilities Leadership Awards
    American Association of People with Disabilities
    1629 K Street NW, Suite 503
    Washington, DC  20006
    Tel: (800) 840 8844    Fax: (202) 457-0473
    Tel/TTY: (202) 457 0046
    Email: aapd@aol.com     Web: www.aapd.com 
    Deadline: September 8

    The Paul G. Hearne/American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) Leadership Awards is an awards program for people with disabilities who are emerging as leaders in their respective fields. AAPD encourages emerging leaders with disabilities of any age to apply.
  • Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic
    20 Rozelle Road
    Princeton, NJ 08540
    Tel: (866) 732 3585
    Deadline: February 21

    Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic (RFB&D) is a national nonprofit organization that serves people who cannot read standard print because of visual, perceptual (including learning disabilities) or other physical disabilities. RFB&D offers the Marion Huber Learning Through Listening Awards and Mary P. Oenslager Scholastic Achievement Awards. The awards are for high school seniors who will be attending a 2 or 4-year vocational school. 
  • SBAA Educational Scholarship
    Spina Bifida Association of America
    4590 MacArthur Boulevard NW, Suite 250
    Washington, DC 20007-4226
    Tel: (800) 621-3141 or (202) 944-3285 Fax: (202) 944-3295
    Email: sbaa@sbaa.org  
    Deadline: April 1st (annual award); September 1 (four-year award)

    The Spina Bifida Association of America provides scholarships to individuals with Spina Bifida. One award is annual. The other award is for four years of school. Applications are available on the website.
  • Schwab Learning
    1650 South Amphlett Boulevard, Suite 300
    San Mateo, CA  94402
    Tel: (800) 230-0988 or (650) 655-2410 Fax: (650) 655-2411
    Email: outreach@schwablearning.org   

    Schwab Learning offers contact information for organizations that give scholarships and other kinds of financial assistance for students with learning disabilities.
  • Toronto Rehabilitation Institute
    550 University Avenue, #811
    Toronto ON M5G 2A2
    Tel: (416) 597-3422 x 3081
    Fax: (416) 597-3031
    Email: ward.lois@tor@torontorehab.on.ca

    Scholarship supporting the education and training of masters and doctoral students with disabilities who are studying in a rehabilitation-related field and who plan on contributing as researchers.  Applicants must be enrolled at one of the eligible Canadian universities.
  • Tourism Cares for Tomorrow
    585 Washington St.
    Canton, MA 02021
    Tel: (781) 821-5990
    Fax: (781) 821-8949
    E-mail: info@tourismcares.org

    The Yellow Ribbon Scholarship is awarded to an undergraduate or graduate student in travel and tourism with a physical or sensory disability.  The student must be enrolled at an accredited two or four-year college or university in the United States or Canada.
  • Venture Student Aid Award / Soroptimist International of the Americas
    Students with Disabilities Scholarship
    1709 Spruce Street
    Philadelphia, PA 19103-6103
    Tel: (215) 893 9000    
    Fax: (215) 893 5200
    Email: siahq@soroptimist.org   
    Contact: Nancy Nardone, Venture Coordiator nancyn@soroptimist.org
    Deadline: December 31

    Scholarships are offered to students with physical disabilities who wish to pursue further education at any accredited institution worldwide. Venture Clubs are administered by Soroptimists International.
  • Very Special Arts
    Young Soloists Award
    1300 Connecticut Avenue NW, Suite 700
    Washington, DC 20036
    Tel: (800) 933-8721 or (202) 628-2800  
    Fax: (202) 737-0725
    TTY: (202) 737-0645
    Email: info@vsarts.org    
    Contact: Dani Fox danif@vsarts.org 
    Deadline:  June 15

    The Young Soloists Award is an annual competition for outstanding music students with disabilities under the ages of 25.  The winners perform at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC and receive a cash award to further their musical education.  The Expressing Freedom Award is a juried exhibition open to young artists from 16-25 living in the United States who have a physical, cognitive or mental disability.  

      • B. Country Specific Scholarships

      Check with your study abroad office or the exchange program to which you are applying. They often have information on scholarships specific to their programs.
       
      Austria:

      • Hockschule Fuer Musik & Darstellende Kunst Mozarteum
        Dr. Ilse KAINZ
        Alpenstraße 48, A-5020 Salzburg
        E-mail: ilse.kainz@moz.ac.at
        Tel: (43) 1 662 6198 2230   
        Fax: (43) 1 662 6198 2219

        Need-based scholarships are available to U.S. nationals and foreign nationals residing in the United States for undergraduate study of music, visual and performing arts. People with disabilities and other underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. 

      Germany:

      • Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange Program c/o YFU
        Bundesverwaltungsamt (BVA)
        Informationsstelle für Auslandstätige und Auswanderer
        Barbarastr. 1
        50735 Köln
        Postfach
        50728 Köln
        Tel.: (01888) 358 0
        Fax: (01888) 358 27 68
        Email: bva.eures@dialup.nacamar.de   

        This fully-funded program offers the opportunity for high school students from the United States and Germany to travel to each other’s countries and study for a year. Scholarships are awarded to students between the ages of 15 and 18 who have a good academic record. Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
      • German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
        871 United Nations Plaza
        New York, NY 10017
        Tel: (212) 758 2123    Fax: (212) 755 5780
        Email: daadny@daad.org     

        Information is available for students of any nationality who are interested in studying in Germany. 

      Italy:

      • Centro Camuno di Studi Preistorici
        Capo di Ponte 25044 ITALY
        Tel: (39-364) 42091   
        Fax: (39-364) 42572
        Email: info@ccsp.it   

        Apprenticeships in Prehistoric and Tribal Art are offered to graduates, post-graduates and professionals to study arts at this institution. Must have knowledge of French, Italian or Spanish. Applications are encouraged from people with disabilities and other underrepresented groups. 

      Japan:

      • Atsumi International Scholarship Foundation
        3-5-8 Sekiguchi
        Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
        112-0014 JAPAN
        Tel: (81-3) 3943-7612  Fax: (81-3) 3943-1512
        Email: aisf@sh0.po.iijnet.or.jp  Web: www.aisf.or.jp 

        There are various scholarship opportunities available for graduate students of any nationality who would like to study in Japan.  
      • Bridging Project Clearinghouse
        Association of Teachers of Japanese
        Campus Box 279
        240 Humanities Building
        University of Colorado
        Boulder, CO 80309-0279
        Tel: (303) 492-5487   Fax: (303) 492-5856
        Email: atj@colorado.edu    

        Undergraduate students majoring in any field of study and attending any recognized exchange or independent program in Japan are eligible to apply for Bridging Scholarships for Study Abroad in Japan. 
      • Japan Foundation New York Office
        Carnegie Hall Tower
        152 West 57th Street, 39th Floor
        New York, NY 10019
        Tel: (212) 489-0299   Fax: (212) 489-0409
        Email: info@jfny.org   

        The Japan Foundation offers fellowships for scholars, researchers and professionals to conduct research in Japan.     

      Norway:

      • King Olav V Norwegian American Heritage Fund
        Sons of Norway Foundation
        1455 W. Lake Street
        Minneapolis, MN 55408-2666
        Tel: (800) 945-8851 / (612) 827 3611 Fax: (612) 827 0658
        Email: foundation@sofn.com   Web: www.sofn.com 
        Deadline: March 1

        Scholarship is designated for Norwegian students and/or American students who are interested in or are currently studying Norwegian Heritage, Norwegian Studies, American Heritage, or American Studies. Please contact organization for further details on restrictions and requirements. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for postal inquiries.

      Switzerland:

      • Indigenous Fellowship Program
        Indigenous Project Team
        Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights
        UNOG-OHCHR
        CH-1211 Geneva 10 SWITZERLAND
        Tel: (41-22) 917-9434 or (41-22) 917-9272 Fax: (41-22) 917-9010
        E-mail: fellowship@ohchr.org

        The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights’ Indigenous Fellowship Programme gives indigenous women and men the opportunity to gain knowledge in the field of international human rights and assists organizations and communities in protecting and promoting the human rights of their people.  The Fellows are based at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva, Switzerland for a period of five monthss.

      United Kingdom:

      • The British Council USA
        The British Embassy
        3100 Massachusetts Avenue NW
        Washington, DC 20008-3600
        Tel: (202) 588 7830 or (800) 488 2235  Fax: (202) 588 7918
        Email: studyintheuk@britishcouncil-usa.org  

        The British Council Education Service provides information on study programs within the United Kingdom. Detailed information on programs and scholarships for various U.K. universities may be found on their website.
      • Gates Cambridge Scholars Program
        Gates Cambridge Trust
        PO Box 252
        Cambridge CB2 1TZ  England
        Email: info@gates.scholarships.cam.ac.uk  

        Gates Cambridge Scholarships are available for scholars of outstanding academic merit and leadership potential from countries outside the United Kingdom, who are committed to serving their communities, and who gain admission to the University of Cambridge to pursue a second Bachelor degree, one-year postgraduate courses or research leading to a PhD.  All university fees as well as a stipend are covered by the scholarship.
      • The Snowdon Award Scheme
        22 City Business Centre
        6 Brighton Road
        Horsham
        West Sussex  RH13 5BB
        UNITED KINGDOM
        Tel: (44-1403) 211-252    Fax: (44-1403) 271-553
        Email: info@snowdonawardscheme.org.uk    

        The Snowdon Award Scheme provides grants to serve physical disabilities who are studying at a college or university within the United Kingdom.  Students of all nationalities are eligible.

       Region-wide:

      • American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS)
        River Plaza
        9 West Broad Street
        Stamford, CT 06902-3788
        Tel: (800) 727-2437 or (203) 869-9090  Fax: (203) 869-9615 
        Deadline: April 15 (for Fall semester), October 15 (for Spring semester)

        The American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS) sponsors scholarships to promote international understanding through study abroad. Scholarships are for use in programs administered by AIFS. Candidates must be currently enrolled undergraduates with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. AIFS also offers minority scholarships and grants. 
      • Arts Recognition and Talent Search
        National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts 
        444 Bricknell Avenue, P-14
        Miami, FL 33131
        Tel: (800) 970 2787 / (305) 377 1140 Fax: (305) 377 1149 
        Email: info@nfaa.org     

        Funding is available to U.S. high school seniors to travel, study and advance their career opportunities in the arts. Applications are encouraged from people with disabilities and other underrepresented groups. 
      • ASTA Scholarship Foundation
        1101 Kings Street, Suite 200
        Alexandria, VA 22314
        Tel: (703) 739 2782     Fax: (703) 684 8319
        Email: askasta@astahq.com     

        The ASTA Scholarship Foundation is a nonprofit subsidiary of the American Society of Travel Agents, Inc. (ASTA). Scholarship are available each year for the industry’s most promising student leaders in a bachelor’s, masters, doctoral, community college or travel school program, and to travel professionals seeking to further their education.
      • The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship
        Institute of International Education
        520 Post Oak Blvd., Suite 740
        Houston, TX  77027-9407
        Tel: (713) 621-6300 ext. 25   Fax: (713) 621 0876
        Email: gilman@iie.org     

        The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship program is sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State and administered by the Institute of International Education. This program seeks to lower barriers to undergraduate study abroad by offering scholarships to students with financial need and encourages students underrepresented in study abroad to apply.  Applicants must be U.S. citizens currently receiving Federal Pell Grant Funding. 
      • Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE)
        300 Fore Street, 2nd Floor
        Portland, ME 04101
        Tel: (800) 407 8839/(207) 553 7600 Fax: (207) 5537699
        Email: info@ciee.org       

        CIEE provides scholarships through their International Student ID Card (Bowman Scholars) Fund for students participating in educational programs in developing countries. CIEE also offers special scholarships for minorities, and individuals interested in professional development.
      • The Davis United World College Scholars Program
        Jane Schoenfeld
        Assistant to the Executive Director
        Davis UWC Scholars Program
        Adirondack House, Middlebury College
        Middlebury, VT  05753 USA
        Tel: (802) 443-3180     Fax: (802) 443-3230
        Email: info@davisUWCscholars.org
        The Davis Program provides scholarships to students, from both the United States and other countries, who have proven themselves by completing their last two years of high school at a group of international schools called United World Colleges. These UWC schools are now in the United States, Bosnia, Canada, Costa Rica, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Norway, Singapore, Swaziland, the United Kingdom, and Venezuela. Since the founding of the first UWC in 1962 at the height of the Cold War, these schools have provided opportunities to students from some 175 countries, representing all regions of the world. Students are selected in their home countries by indigenous, voluntary committees, and receive scholarships to attend the United World College schools.
      • Faculty Research Awards
        Division of Research Programs
        National Endowment for the Humanities
        1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
        Washington, DC  20506
        Tel: (800) NEH 1121 / (202) 606-8200 
        Email: research@neh.gov     

        Faculty Research Awards is a new grant program from National Endowment for the Humanities intended to support research by full time, tenured, tenure track, or annual contract faculty at Historically Black, Hispanic-Serving, and Tribal Colleges and Universities.  The grant will provide awards to individuals for projects that promise to make contributions of research and synthesis to the humanities generally, and to the educational missions of the applicant’s home institution.  The funds may be used for project-related travel. 
      • Check the Featured Countries webpages of the National Clearinghouse on Disability & Exchange for country-specific awards
      • Ford Foundation
        Secretary
        320 East 43rd Street
        New York, NY 10017
        Tel: (212) 573-5000    Fax: (212) 351-3677
        Email: office-secretary@fordfound.org   

        The Ford Foundation accepts proposals for funding in these areas of interest: urban poverty, rural poverty and resources, rights and social justice, governance and public policy, education and culture, international affairs, and reproductive health and population. People with disabilities and underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.
      • Freeman-Asia Program
        U. S. Student Programs Division
        Institute of International Education
        809 United Nations Plaza
        New York, NY  10017-3580
        Tel: (212) 984-5542    Fax: (212) 984 5325
        Email: Freeman-ASIA@iie.org   

        The Freeman-Asia program awards scholarships to undergraduates for study in East or Southeast Asia.  Applicant must agree to share their experiences with their community upon return from the exchange.  Must be U.S. resident to apply.
      • Fulbright Academic Exchange Programs
        Office of Academic Exchange Programs
        Bureau of Educational & Cultural Affairs
        U.S. Department of State, SA-44
        301 4th Street, SW - Room 234
        Washington, DC 20547
        Tel: (202) 453-8135
        Fax: (202) 453-8125

        Fulbright grants are offered to US citizens for a variety of educational activities: primarily university lecturing, advanced research, graduate study and teaching in elementary and secondary schools.  The Council for International Exchange of Scholars (CIES) administers faculty and professional programs, while the Institute of International Education (IIE) administers graduate student Fulbright programs. Contact the following organizations for information on how to apply:

        Council for International Exchange of Scholars
        Fulbright Foundation
        3007 Tilden Street NW, Suite 5L
        Washington, DC 20008-3009
        Tel: (202) 686-4000   Fax: (202) 362-3442
        Email: scholars@cies.iie.org     

        Institute of International Education
        809 United Nations Plaza
        New York, NY  10017-3580
        Tel: (212) 883-8200 or (212) 984-5380 Fax:  (212) 984-5452
        Email: wjackson@iie.org     
      • Geological Society of America Research Grants
        Program Officer – Grants, Awards & Medals
        PO Box 9140
        Boulder, CO 80301-1940
        Tel: (303) 357-1028    Fax: (303) 357-1070
        Email: awards@geosociety.org    

        Grants are available to support masters and doctoral research work in the geological sciences in Canada, Central America and Mexico. Please contact the Geological Society or the Geology Department of the university you are applying to for more information. People with disabilities and other underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. 
      • Health and Child Survival Fellows Program
        Johns Hopkins University
        PO Box 2216
        Baltimore, MD 21203-2216
        Tel: (410) 659 4108     Fax: (410) 659 4118
        Email: pseaton@jhsph.edu      

        Fellowships are offered for U.S. professionals with master’s degrees in a health-related field to develop technical expertise in child survival and international health. The program also provides scholarships for academic training needed to meet program qualifications. People with disabilities and other underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. 
      • International Student Exchange Program
        Division of Educational Programs
        Argonne National Laboratory
        9700 South Cass Avenue
        Argonne, Illinois 60439-4845
        Tel: (630) 252-4114    Fax: (630) 252-3193
        Email: isep@dep.anl.gov    

        The ISEP Program trains graduate students in the scientific and technical areas by working in research laboratories in host countries.  Practicum sites are available in France, Germany, and Japan. More countries will continue to be added.  Applications from underrepresented groups are encouraged.
      • IWID Fellows Program
        1400 K Street NW, Suite 650
        Washington, DC 20005
        Tel: (202) 898 0600  Fax: (202) 326 7698
        General Email: iwid@iie.org
        Contact: Usha Balakrishnan, Senior Program Coordinator ubalakrishman@iie.org

        The Investing in Women in Development Fellows Program offers U.S. citizens with an MA and significant experience in the development field an opportunity to work overseas for 12 months with USAID.
      • King Faisal Foundation Scholarship Programs
        King Fahed Road Olaya, Riyadh
        Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
        PO Box 352
        Riyadh 11411, Saudi Arabia
        Tel: (966 1) 465 2255   Fax: (966 1) 465 6524
        Email: info@kff.com or kfcrisinfo@kff.com   

        Qualified Muslim students of any nationality who would like to do graduate or post-graduate work in the fields of science, medicine and engineering at any university in North America or Europe may apply for financial assistance.
      • Marshall Scholarships
        San Francisco Regional Centre: British Consulate-General
        1 Sansome Street, Suite 850
        San Francisco, CA 94104 USA
        Tel: (415) 617 1340
        Email: Sanfrancisco@marshallscholarship.org
        Deadline: Early October
         
        Marshall Scholarships finance young Americans of high ability to study for a degree in the United Kingdom. At least forty Scholars are selected each year to study either at graduate or occasionally undergraduate level at an UK institution in any field of study. Each scholarship is held for two years. For other US regional contact offices, see the website.
      • National Cancer Institute
        Cancer Training Branch
        6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 7019
        MSC 8346
        Bethesda, MD 20892-8346
        Tel: (301) 496-8580     Fax: (301) 402-4472

        National Institutes of Health sponsors individual postdoctoral fellowships for research training that has a direct relevance for cancer research. Applicants must be U.S. citizens. People with disabilities and other underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. 
      • National Security Education Program (NSEP)
        David L. Boren Undergraduate Scholarships
        Institute of International Education
        6th Floor
        1400 K Street, NW
        Washington, DC 20005-2403
        Tel: (800) 618-6737 or (202) 326-7697   Fax: (202) 326-7672
        Email: nsep@iie.org      

        NSEP provides funding for undergraduate and graduate students from the United States who wish to study in the field of international affairs and national security. Certain sites are excluded from this program: Western Europe, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Undergraduate scholarships are under the supervision of the Institute for International Education (IIE) while graduate scholarship inquiries should be directed to the Academy for Education Development (AED).

        AED (Graduate Scholarships)
        1875 Connecticut Avenue NW, Suite 900
        Washington, DC  20009-1202
        Tel: (800) 498-9360 or (202) 884-8000  Fax: (202) 884-8408
        Email: nsep@aed.org        
      • Organization of American States
        Department of Fellowship and Training Program  
        E-mail: portal@iacd.oas.org                                    

        The Inter-American Agency for Cooperation and Development of the Organization of American States (OAS) administers one of the Western hemisphere’s largest multinational fellowship and training programs. Every year, the agency provides several hundred fellowships for graduate studies and research, scholarships for undergraduate studies and awards for specialized, short-term training at educational institutions and training centers in member and observer states.  For further information or assistance, candidates should contact the National Liaison Office of their country of origin.
      • SIT Study Abroad
        School for International Training
        Kipling Road
        PO Box 676
        Brattleboro, VT  05302-0676, USA
        Tel: (802) 257-7751 or (888) 272-7881 Fax: (802) 258-3296   
        Email: studyabroad@sit.edu   

        The School for International Training offers several scholarships for the study abroad programs it administers.  
      • Student and Youth Travel Association (SYTA)
        3048 Clarkston Road
        Lake Orion, MI 48362 
        Tel: (248) 693-1872 
        Fax: (248) 814-7150 
        Email: info@sytayouthfoundation.org
        The SYTA Youth Foundation (SYF) established the SYF "Road" Scholarship program award 30 scholarships to youth who, for various reasons, are unable to afford the cost of their group's travel.  Applications are reviewed five times per year. Deadlines are December 15, February 15, April 15, August 15 and October 15. 
      • Youth for Understanding International Exchange (YFU)
        6400 Goldsboro Road, Suite 100
        Bethesda, MD 20817, USA
        Tel: (866) 4 YFU USA / (240) 235 2100  Fax: (240) 235 2104
        Email: admissions@yfu.org   Web: www.yfu-usa.org 

        YFU administers several scholarships for use in YFU programs. Deadlines vary.

      C.  Other Financial Aid Opportunities: 

      • International Education Finance Corporation
        222 Forbes Road, Suite 406
        Braintree, MA 02184
        Tel: (781) 843-5334 or (888) 296-4332  Fax: (781) 843-9034
        Email: contact@iefc.com      

        Students are able to apply for the Stafford and Plus loans through the International Student Loan Program (ISLP). For more information please write to the above address. 
      • U.S. Department of Education
        Federal Aid Information Center
        PO Box 84
        Washington, DC 20044-0084
        Tel: (800) 433-3243
        TTY: (800) 730-8913

        Students may be eligible to apply for federal financial aid. Contact the financial aid office of the university you plan to attend or refer to the above contact information. To request the Student Aid Guide in Audio version, contact the office.

      Although efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, MIUSA/NCDE cannot be held liable for inaccuracy, misinterpretation or complaints arising from these listings. Mention of an organization, company, service or resource should not be construed as an endorsement by MIUSA/NCDE.

       
       
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