Boren Scholarship

The David L. Boren Scholarships, funded by the National Security Education Program (NSEP), provides $8000 - $25,000 for U.S. students to study less commonly taught languages. Boren awards focus on geographic areas deemed critical to U.S. national security. Scholars are highly motivated individuals who have interest in national security work. 

Eligibility 

  • Institutional endorsement required – applicants are not able to apply directly 
  • Applicants  must be U.S. citizen at the time of application 
  • Open to all academic fields 
  • All class years, including graduate students
  • Planning to study in a country of which they are not a citizen 
    • Planning overseas study in a country outside of Western Europe, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand
    • Matriculated as a UO student for the duration of their Boren-funded program

Award Highlights: 
Maximum awards are determined by duration abroad: 

  • Up to $25,000 for 25-52 weeks (preferred) 
  • Up to $12,500 for 12-24 weeks 
  • Up to $8,000 for 8-11 weeks (STEM majors only) 

Application Components: 

  • Letter of recommendation (2), with a third optional 
  • Official Transcript (with Fall grades) and from all colleges and universities attended 
  • Language self-assessment and optional language proficiency form (completed by language instructor)  
  • Study abroad program description, program length, and budget 
  • Essays 
  • Career plans (100 words) 
  • Two essays on National Security and Motivation & Public Service Careers (800 words each) 
Award Website

https://www.borenawards.org

Application Deadline

UO Endorsement Submission Deadline for Study Abroad Scholarships (undergraduate students): January 18, 2024

External Undergraduate Study Abroad Scholarships Deadline: January 31, 2024

Research and Language Study Fellowships (graduate students): January 24, 2024 (no internal deadline)

Contact the Advising Team

Award Advisor: Luis Ruiz