Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program

U.S. Department of State (implemented by American Councils for International Education)

Amount variesApplications typically open in late September and close in mid-November (around November 18) for the following summer

Who can apply: Students already enrolled in college; U.S. citizens and permanent residents.

From the filters we have on file, which can miss rules written only on the sponsor's page. Confirm there before you apply.

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Undergraduate and graduate students can spend a summer in an intensive, fully funded language program in one of nine critical languages, packing about a year of study into eight weeks. You apply with short essays, a personal statement and two recommendations.

What you'll need to apply

  • Short written answers: Four short-answer essays
  • Essay: Personal statement
  • 2 recommendation letters: One should come from a language instructor if you apply above the beginner level
  • Transcript: Unofficial
  • Proof of enrollment or acceptance: Enrolled in a U.S. degree program, with at least one year of undergraduate study completed
  • U.S. citizen or national, and 18 by May 15 of the program year
  • Meet the language-level prerequisite for the program you choose

The sponsor's page only listed some of what's needed, so this list may be missing items. Requirements can change each cycle. Confirm them on the sponsor's page before you apply.

Eligibility

  • • Must already be enrolled in college (not open to incoming high school seniors)

Am I eligible?

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