Introduction
The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program, established under the International Academic Opportunity Act of 2000, aims to diversify the students who study and intern abroad and the countries and regions where they go. Named after former Congressman Benjamin Gilman of New York, the scholarship is funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. The program is dedicated to ensuring that students of limited financial means have the opportunity to study and intern in international settings, thereby gaining skills critical to national security and economic competitiveness.
Objectives of the Gilman Scholarship
The primary goal of the Gilman Scholarship is to expand the range of students who participate in study abroad programs by providing scholarships to undergraduate students who are receiving Federal Pell Grant funding. The scholarship encourages students to study and intern in a diverse array of countries or areas, especially those outside of Western Europe and other traditional study abroad destinations. This is aimed at fostering mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries, which is vital in the increasingly globalized world.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Gilman Scholarship, applicants must meet several criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
- Undergraduate Status: Applicants must be undergraduate students in good standing at an accredited institution of higher education in the United States.
- Federal Pell Grant Recipient: Applicants must be receiving a Federal Pell Grant at the time of application or during the term of their study abroad program.
- Academic Program Location: The proposed study abroad or internship program must be eligible for credit at the student’s home institution and must be at least three weeks for community college students and four weeks for students from four-year institutions.
Application Process
The application process for the Gilman Scholarship is comprehensive and competitive. It involves several steps:
- Online Application: Students must complete an online application that includes personal information, academic history, and details about the study abroad or internship program.
- Essays: Applicants must write two essays: the Statement of Purpose Essay and the Community Impact Essay. The Statement of Purpose Essay should discuss the student’s background, motivations for studying abroad, and how the program aligns with their academic and career goals. The Community Impact Essay should outline the student’s plan to promote the Gilman Scholarship and study abroad opportunities to their home community or campus.
- Transcripts: Students must submit transcripts from their current and any previous institutions attended.
- Certifications: Applicants must have their application certified by a study abroad advisor and a financial aid advisor at their home institution. “Apply Link”
Award Amounts and Use of Funds
The Gilman Scholarship awards range from $100 to $5,000, depending on the student’s financial need and the length and cost of their study abroad program. Additional funds of up to $3,000 are available for students studying critical need languages, including Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and others. The funds can be used to cover tuition, room and board, books, local transportation, insurance, and international airfare.
Selection Criteria
The selection process for the Gilman Scholarship is highly competitive, with a diverse panel of academics and international education experts reviewing the applications. The primary criteria for selection include:
- Academic Preparedness and Impact on the Student’s Academic and Career Trajectory: Reviewers assess how well-prepared the student is for the proposed program and how it aligns with their future academic and career goals.
- Diversity of Background and Experience: The scholarship seeks to support students from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, including those who have been traditionally underrepresented in study abroad.
- Impact on Community and Commitment to Service: Applicants must demonstrate how they plan to share their experience and the impact of their program on their home community or campus.
Benefits of the Gilman Scholarship
The Gilman Scholarship provides numerous benefits beyond financial assistance. It opens doors to new cultures, languages, and experiences that can be transformative. Scholars gain skills that are increasingly valuable in the global job market, such as cross-cultural communication, adaptability, and problem-solving. Furthermore, studying abroad can enhance academic learning and provide opportunities for personal growth and development.
Testimonials and Success Stories
Many past recipients of the Gilman Scholarship have shared their success stories, highlighting the profound impact the scholarship has had on their lives. These testimonials often emphasize the personal and professional growth students experience, the lifelong connections they make, and the enhanced career opportunities that follow.
Conclusion
The Gilman Scholarship 2024 continues to embody its mission of broadening the participation of students in study abroad programs, fostering mutual understanding, and preparing students for a globally interconnected world. By providing financial support and encouraging a diverse range of participants, the Gilman Scholarship plays a crucial role in promoting international education and cultural exchange.