You deserve a global experience that fits your budget and your goals. If you’re a US undergraduate with a Pell Grant, the Gilman Scholarship can fund your study or internship abroad in 2026/2027 with real money in your pocket.
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Get up to $5,000 in base funding, plus up to $4,000 in supplemental awards for eligible enhancements. That is serious support for program fees, airfare, visas, housing, meals, and local transport. Applications are competitive but absolutely doable if you prepare well. Start now and position yourself to win.
Why the Gilman Scholarship Stands Out
Big impact, flexible use – Up to $5,000 you can apply toward tuition, program fees, flights, visas, insurance, housing, and daily costs abroad.
Extra funding available – Up to $4,000 more in supplemental awards for eligible applicants and programs.
Designed for access – Specifically for US undergraduates who receive a Pell Grant, opening doors to students often underrepresented in study abroad.
Any major, many destinations – Credit-bearing study or internship programs in a wide range of fields and countries.
Career-ready outcomes – Employers value global experience, language growth, and intercultural skills. Gilman helps you get there.
What the Gilman Scholarship Covers
The core award offers up to $5,000. Gilman funds can typically be used for:
Program tuition and fees
Round-trip airfare and local transport
Visa and residence permit fees
Health insurance required by the program
Accommodation and meals
Essential study materials
On top of the base grant, eligible applicants may receive up to $4,000 in supplemental awards for program or applicant-specific priorities. Check the official site for current supplemental options and rules.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
Requirement
Details for 2026/2027 Cycle
Citizenship
Must be a US citizen
Enrollment
Undergraduate student (2-year or 4-year institution) in good academic standing
Financial Aid
Recipient of a Federal Pell Grant at the time of application or at the time of the program abroad
Program Type
Credit-bearing study abroad or international internship program
Program Length
Minimum program length requirements apply – verify current thresholds on the official site
Destination
Country must meet US Department of State travel advisory requirements (generally Levels 1-2). Destinations with Level 3-4 advisories are typically ineligible
Timing
Program should fall within eligible terms in the 2026/2027 academic year per Gilman cycle guidance
If you are unsure about program eligibility, ask your study abroad office and review the latest rules on the official site.
Award Structure
Base Grant: Up to $5,000
Supplemental Funding: Up to $4,000 in additional awards for eligible categories as defined by Gilman
Disbursement: Funds are provided to help offset your approved study or internship abroad costs
Exact amounts vary by applicant profile, program costs, and funding availability.
Selection Criteria: What Reviewers Look For
Clear goals and strong fit – How your chosen program supports your academic path, career plans, and personal growth
Financial need – Demonstrated reliance on aid and how Gilman funding enables your participation
Impact and leadership – Your plan to share insights and inspire others through a practical Follow-on Service Project
Diversity of perspectives and destinations – Commitment to broadening participation and exploring less-common locations or fields when possible
Quality writing – Clear, specific, error-free essays that answer the prompts directly
Required Documents
Online application through the Gilman portal
Essays – typically a Statement of Purpose and a Follow-on Service Project proposal
Confirm your eligibility and identify the correct application cycle for your 2026/2027 program dates.
Choose your program or internship abroad. Ensure it is credit-bearing and meets destination safety requirements.
Complete the application form and draft your essays. Be specific about goals, need, and impact.
Upload required documents and verify all details.
Notify your Study Abroad Advisor and Financial Aid Advisor early so they can complete the necessary certifications before the deadline.
Review everything for accuracy, then submit your application by the deadline listed for your cycle.
Monitor your email and MyGilman portal for updates, possible requests, and award announcements.
Updated Deadlines
Fall 2027 Deadline: October 1, 2027 at 11:59 PM PT
Other cycles for 2026/2027 may have different timelines. Check the official website for the latest deadline.
Winning Essay and Application Tips
Answer the prompt directly – Use the exact language of the question to guide your structure and content.
Connect the dots – Show how your background, academics, and future plans align with your chosen program.
Be concrete about need – Explain how specific costs would prevent you from going without Gilman support.
Show impact at home – Outline a realistic Follow-on Service Project with steps, partners, and audience.
Edit hard – Write early, get feedback from advisors or writing centers, and proofread carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Would You Like To Apply For This Opportunity?
Who is eligible for the Gilman Scholarship?
US citizens who are undergraduates at accredited 2-year or 4-year institutions and who receive a Federal Pell Grant. You must participate in a credit-bearing study abroad or internship program that meets Gilman’s destination and length requirements.
How much funding can I get?
Up to $5,000 for the base award, with the possibility of up to $4,000 in supplemental awards if you qualify. Actual amounts depend on your application, program costs, and available funds.
Can I apply if I haven’t been accepted to a program yet?
You can typically apply while finalizing your program, but your Study Abroad Advisor must be able to certify your program details and your Financial Aid Advisor must certify Pell eligibility by the deadline.
What expenses can the scholarship cover?
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Program fees, tuition, airfare, visas, housing, meals, insurance, and essential academic costs, subject to Gilman policies. Always confirm allowable uses for your specific award.
Are some destinations ineligible?
Yes. Programs in countries with US Department of State Level 3 or Level 4 travel advisories are typically not eligible. Always check the latest advisory status before applying.
When will I hear back?
Timelines vary by cycle. Watch your MyGilman portal and email for updates after submissions close. Check the official website for current review and notification windows.
Ready to Apply?
If studying or interning abroad is part of your 2026/2027 plan and you have a Pell Grant, this is your moment. Secure funding that can make the difference. Start your application at gilmanscholarship.org, craft standout essays, and get your advisors on board early. Apply now and take your education global.
