The Boren Scholarship offers an amazing opportunity for students to study abroad, especially for those interested in fields that support national security, diplomacy, and international affairs. If you are a college student looking to expand your global understanding while contributing to the betterment of your country, the Boren Scholarship might be your gateway to international experiences. This article will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully apply for the Boren Scholarship.
What is the Boren Scholarship?
Before diving into the application process, it’s important to understand what the Boren Scholarship is and who it is for. The Boren Scholarship is a prestigious funding opportunity provided by the National Security Education Program (NSEP) to undergraduate students who wish to study abroad. The program’s goal is to develop a pool of highly skilled individuals proficient in critical languages and knowledgeable about global issues.
The Boren Scholarship was created to promote long-term international relationships that contribute to the nation’s security and diplomatic efforts. Therefore, it focuses on funding students who are studying abroad in countries where the U.S. has a significant interest, particularly in terms of foreign relations, security, and economic development. The scholarship is open to students studying a variety of critical languages and in various academic disciplines.
Who is Eligible for the Boren Scholarship?
To apply for the Boren Scholarship, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. Here is a breakdown of the basic eligibility criteria:
1. Citizenship
You must be a U.S. citizen to apply for the Boren Scholarship. This scholarship is specifically designed for American students to promote international understanding.
2. Undergraduate Status
The Boren Scholarship is primarily for undergraduate students, though graduate students can apply for a Boren Fellowship, which is a separate but similar program. To qualify for the undergraduate scholarship, you must be enrolled in a degree program at an accredited U.S. institution.
3. Intended Area of Study
You should plan to study abroad in a country that is of strategic importance to the United States. This includes regions like Africa, Asia, Central and Eastern Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Central Asia. The program encourages students to engage with critical languages spoken in these regions, such as Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Russian, and several others.
4. Commitment to National Security and Service
Applicants should demonstrate an interest in contributing to national security or U.S. diplomacy through their academic and career paths. Boren Scholars are expected to use their skills and knowledge gained abroad to serve the U.S. government upon completion of their studies.
5. Study Abroad Plans
The Boren Scholarship is for students planning to study abroad for at least 8 weeks. While short-term programs are not eligible, the Boren Scholarship allows for both semester-long and year-long study abroad experiences.
6. Language Requirements
One of the main focuses of the Boren Scholarship is the study of critical languages. Ideally, applicants should have some prior knowledge of the language spoken in their host country. However, this is not always a strict requirement, as long as the applicant plans to study the language abroad.
What Does the Boren Scholarship Cover?
The Boren Scholarship provides generous funding to cover various expenses during your study abroad experience. Here’s a breakdown of the typical benefits:
1. Financial Support
Boren Scholars receive up to $20,000 for a year-long study abroad program. If you plan to study abroad for less than a year, you may receive a proportionate amount based on the duration of your program. For example, a semester-long program might cover approximately $10,000. This funding can be used to cover tuition, fees, travel expenses, living costs, and other study abroad-related expenses.
2. Study Abroad Opportunities
The scholarship supports study abroad programs that focus on critical regions and languages, enabling students to immerse themselves in the culture and gain valuable academic experience.
3. Career Development
Through the Boren Scholarship, students can gain skills and experience in critical areas such as national security, foreign relations, and global diplomacy, making them attractive candidates for future employment with the U.S. government, including the Department of Defense, the Department of State, the intelligence community, and other related sectors.
4. Language Learning
The Boren Scholarship emphasizes language immersion, so funding often includes resources for language courses and tutors. This is especially beneficial for students planning to study languages that are in high demand for national security, such as Arabic, Russian, Chinese, or Korean.
How to Apply for the Boren Scholarship
Now that you have a basic understanding of the Boren Scholarship, let’s dive into the application process. While the process can be competitive, with the right preparation and determination, it’s definitely achievable. Follow these steps for a smoother application process:
1. Start Early
The application process for the Boren Scholarship can take several months, so it’s essential to start preparing early. Begin by researching eligible study abroad programs, identifying the languages and regions that align with your academic and career goals, and reaching out to study abroad offices at your university for advice and assistance.
2. Complete the Application Form
The Boren Scholarship application is hosted on the official website, where you’ll need to create an account. The application consists of several components, including:
Personal Information: Basic demographic and academic details.
Study Abroad Program Information: Information about your intended study abroad program, including the country, duration, and institution.
Essay Questions: The application will include essay prompts that you must respond to. These questions typically ask you to explain why you are interested in studying abroad in a particular region, how it fits into your academic and career goals, and how the scholarship will help you achieve your objectives.
3. Submit Your Transcripts
You will need to submit official transcripts from your college or university. This will help the selection committee assess your academic performance and eligibility.
4. Letters of Recommendation
As part of the application, you must submit two letters of recommendation. These should come from individuals who can speak to your academic achievements, language skills, and potential for success in an international environment. Consider asking professors, academic advisors, or study abroad program coordinators for recommendations.
5. Language Proficiency (if applicable)
If you are applying to study a language that you have already started learning, you may need to submit evidence of your proficiency. Some programs may require a language proficiency test or certification, depending on the country and language in which you plan to study.
6. Essay Writing Tips
The essays are a critical component of your Boren Scholarship application. Here are some tips for writing strong essays:
Be Clear and Specific: Make sure to clearly explain your goals for studying abroad and how the experience will contribute to your academic and career plans. Avoid vague statements and be specific about how the scholarship fits into your broader objectives.
Show Passion and Commitment: Demonstrate your passion for international relations, national security, or language learning. Show how you are dedicated to contributing to U.S. diplomacy and security.
Highlight Relevance: Emphasize how your chosen study abroad program is directly aligned with your future career plans, particularly if you’re aiming for government or international positions.
7. Prepare for the Interview
After submitting your application, you may be invited for an interview. The interview is an important opportunity to demonstrate your passion for international studies, your commitment to national security, and your ability to articulate why you are an ideal candidate for the scholarship. Be prepared to answer questions related to your academic background, your study abroad plans, and how the scholarship fits into your career goals.
8. Submit by the Deadline
The Boren Scholarship has a strict application deadline, typically in February each year. Make sure to submit all components of your application by the due date to ensure that it is considered.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once you’ve submitted your application, the selection committee will review all submissions and select the most promising candidates based on their academic achievements, essays, and potential to contribute to national security and foreign relations. If you are selected as a Boren Scholar, you will be notified, and the scholarship funding will be disbursed to you.
Conclusion
The Boren Scholarship provides an incredible opportunity for students who are passionate about studying abroad, learning critical languages, and contributing to national security and diplomacy. By understanding the scholarship’s requirements and taking a careful, strategic approach to the application process, you can increase your chances of receiving this prestigious award.
Remember, the key to success is demonstrating a clear connection between your study abroad plans and your long-term academic and career goals. If you are dedicated to studying in a critical region or learning a vital language, the Boren Scholarship may be the stepping stone you need to further your education and future career in international affairs.
