Financial Aid and Funding for International Exchange

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:

• 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.

• Fellowships for Non-U.S. Citizens or for U.S. Citizens

Fully or partially-funded programs for professional development.

• U.S. Department of State Exchanges for International Citizens or for U.S. Citizens 

Find out if you qualify for Fulbright, funded youth exchanges, and other U.S. Department of State programs.

• Alumni Stories of Funded 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.

• Scholarships, Grants and Loans for International Exchange: Where to Search

Learn who awards scholarships and loans and where to find them. Includes links to online search engines.

• Examples of Scholarships
  

This non-exhaustive list includes region-specific, disability-specific, and other scholarships.

Fundraising and Cost-Saving Strategies

• 15 Ways to Raise Funds for Your Exchange Program

Learn from other exchange participants how to raise money and save on costs for study or volunteering abroad.

• Survival Strategies for Going Abroad: A Guide for People with Disabilities

Read Chapter 2, Part 2 on Fundraising: How to Finance Your Program Participation.

• Budget Form for Study Abroad

Use this form to help you organize your estimated expenses and create a realistic budget.

Government Programs and Services in the United States

• Social Security or Vocational Rehabilitation and Going Abroad

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.

• Veterans with Disabilities & Study at Foreign Institutions

How the GI Bill benefits can be used to help cover the cost of certain study abroad activities for American veterans.