Critical Language Scholarship
U.S. Department of State
Through the Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program, American students enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities can spend eight to ten weeks of summer abroad studying one of 14 critical languages. Every year, 500 undergraduate and graduate students win the CLS program of $8,000 all expenses covered. CLS is an intensive overseas language and cultural immersion group-based program. It includes intensive language instruction and structured cultural enrichment experiences designed to promote rapid language gains.
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and implemented by the American Councils for International Education, CLS Program is designed to promote rapid language gains and essential intercultural fluency in regions that are critical to U.S. national security and economic prosperity.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, U.S. citizens or permanent residents, enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs in the U.S., and provide recommendation letters along with their applications.
Scholarship Summary
Through the Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program, American students enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities can spend eight to ten weeks of summer abroad studying one of 14 critical languages. Every year, 500 undergraduate and graduate students win the CLS program of $8,000 all expenses covered. CLS is an intensive overseas language and cultural immersion group-based program. It includes intensive language instruction and structured cultural enrichment experiences designed to promote rapid language gains.
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and implemented by the American Councils for International Education, CLS Program is designed to promote rapid language gains and essential intercultural fluency in regions that are critical to U.S. national security and economic prosperity.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, U.S. citizens or permanent residents, enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs in the U.S., and provide recommendation letters along with their applications.
Eligibility Requirements
- Eligible Grade: Undergraduate
- Minimum Age: 18
- Required GPA: Any
- Geographic Eligibility: United States
- Gender: Any
- Race/Ethnicity: Any
Key Information of Critical Language Scholarship
Study Details
Area of Study
- Arts
- Languages
Country of Study
Any
Specific Schools
Any
Application Requirements
Here’s what you need to submit besides your application.
- School Verification
- Short Answers
- Present Work Experiences
- Recommendation letters
Critical Language Scholarship Timeline
October 3
Application Open Date
The application opens in early October.
November 14
Submission Deadline
The submission deadline is in mid-November.
How to ace the Critical Language Scholarship
Demonstrate a good academic standing
Despite CLS not requesting a specific GPA, it still asks interested students to maintain good grades and stay committed to their studies. Your recommendation letters and academic standing rely on your records. So work hard and maintain a high GPA to increase your chances of winning. Your grades indicate how serious you are.
Make sure you stand out
In your application, demonstrate the drive to succeed, showcase why this scholarship matters in pursuing your dreams, how this language will impact your studies, and your motivation to learn this specific language you chose. It is wise to include your extracurricular activities, community service, and outside classroom projects that feature your leadership skills and personal abilities.
Add more extracurricular activities to your resume
Taking part in projects outside school is always a plus on any resume and scholarship application; therefore increase your extracurricular activities that showcase your personal skills.
Provide accurate information
Choose your recommenders wisely. Ask those who know you best and can speak to your abilities. Also, it is best to inform them early to allow them enough time to write your winning recommendations. You can follow the guidelines provided on the application website to guarantee a successful application.
How the Critical Language Scholarship is Judged
Applications are assessed based on the quality of applications, determination of the chosen language, their motivation, and the impact of the chosen language on their studies.
Why We Love the Critical Language Scholarship
No discrimination
This scholarship program is open to all eligible students regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, etc. It is an inclusive program and awards a large number of students each year to further their education.
It promotes cross-cultural education
The program allows students to study different languages and be exposed to different cultures. It offers students a chance to visit other countries and learn about their heritage, traditions, and languages.
An annual scholarship
The CLS Program is an annual program allowing students cross-cultural exposure. Despite applying for one language at a time, interested students can learn a new language each year if they want, provided they meet the requirements. It is a great opportunity for students to expand their academic horizons.
5 Facts About the Critical Language Scholarship
Open to undergraduate and graduate students
Undergraduate and graduate schools are eligible to apply for this scholarship program.
Language requirements must be met
Applicants must meet the language requirements of the program to which they apply.
It is a one-time award
Applicants may only apply once, for one language, each year.
Multiple applications are prohibited
Applicants who submit multiple applications will be considered ineligible.
Must maintain good academic standing to be eligible
Applicants, who withdraw or fail to maintain a passing grade average, are not eligible to participate in the program.