Boren Scholarships
The Boren Scholarships provide funding for U.S. undergraduate students to study critical languages and cultures in world regions underrepresented in study abroad. Recipients commit to working in positions critical to U.S. national security within the Federal Government after graduation.
Quick Facts
Status
Opening SoonFunding
Partial FundingDeadline
January 27, 2027
Country
United StatesAbout the Boren Scholarships
The Boren Scholarships are an initiative of the Defense Language and National Security Education Office (DLNSEO). They fund intensive language and culture study abroad for U.S. undergraduate students in regions critical to U.S. interests, including Africa, Asia, Eurasia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
Applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, and matriculated in an accredited U.S. undergraduate degree program. The program requires that students remain matriculated at their home institution for the entire duration of their Boren-funded study.
The program emphasizes long-term linguistic and cultural immersion. Students may either design their own study program or apply for a Regional Flagship Language Initiative, such as the African Flagship Languages Initiative (AFLI) or the Southeast Asian Flagship Languages Initiative (SEAFLI).
Boren Scholarships are not all-inclusive. Funding is tiered based on the duration of the overseas program, with maximum awards of $8,000 for 8-11 weeks (STEM majors only), $12,500 for 12-24 weeks, and $25,000 for 25-52 weeks.
Recipients must fulfill a service requirement by working in a position critical to U.S. national security within the Federal Government. This includes departments such as State, Defense, and Homeland Security.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Provides significant financial support for intensive language study
Offers access to specialized Regional Flagship Language Initiatives
Facilitates career paths in U.S. national security and public service
Encourages study in underrepresented world regions
Supports students who have not previously studied abroad
What the Scholarship Covers
Eligibility Requirements
6 requirements
Documents Checklist
5 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Create a new application on the Boren Awards website
Contact the Boren Awards campus representative at your institution
Choose a program (Regional Flagship Language Initiative or self-designed)
Draft essays and share with recommenders
Submit the application by the national deadline
Application Timeline
Fall 2026
Application Opens
January 27, 2027
National Deadline
Mid-to-late April 2027
Notification of Selection
June 2027
Earliest Program Start
March 1, 2028
Latest Program Start
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Reach out to your campus representative early for feedback on your application
Focus your essays on the national security implications of your proposed study
Ensure your proposed program includes at least 15-20 weekly language hours
If you are a STEM major, you may be eligible for an 8-week summer program
Check if your institution has an earlier internal campus deadline
Review the official selection criteria before drafting your application
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions - click any to expand
Yes, community college students are encouraged to apply. You should apply from your current institution and indicate where you plan to transfer.
No, Boren Awards fund in-person, immersive overseas study. Online programs are not eligible.
You are encouraged to apply. One of the program's objectives is to expand opportunities for students who have not previously studied abroad.
Ready to Apply?
Applications open Fall 2026 - get your documents ready now.
Apply on Official Website →More Scholarships to Explore
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