Boren Scholarships (United States)
The Boren Scholarships provide funding for U.S. undergraduate students to study critical languages and cultures in world regions underrepresented in study abroad. Recipients commit to working in positions critical to U.S. national security within the Federal Government after graduation.
Quick Facts
Status
Opening SoonFunding
Full / PartialDeadline
January 27, 2027
Country
United StatesAbout the Boren Scholarships
The Boren Scholarships are an initiative of the Defense Language and National Security Education Office (DLNSEO). They support undergraduate students in acquiring linguistic and cultural proficiency in languages and regions critical to U.S. interests, including Africa, Asia, Eurasia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
The program is designed for students who are committed to public service. Upon completion of their studies, Boren Scholars are required to work in positions critical to U.S. national security throughout the Federal Government, such as the Departments of State, Defense, and Homeland Security.
Applicants may choose to design their own study program or apply for a Regional Flagship Language Initiative (RFLI). RFLI programs offer credit-bearing language courses during the summer domestically and in the fall overseas, with options to extend into the spring.
Boren Scholarships are available for programs ranging from 8 weeks to 52 weeks. Funding amounts are tied to the duration of the overseas program, with specific provisions for STEM majors and graduate-level fellowship counterparts.
Applicants must remain matriculated in a U.S. degree-granting institution for the duration of their funded program. The program emphasizes immersion, requiring at least 15-20 hours of language study per week.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Significant financial support for intensive language study
Access to specialized Regional Flagship Language Initiatives
Direct pathway to federal government career opportunities
Emphasis on underrepresented regions and critical languages
Support from campus representatives and program advisors
What the Scholarship Covers
Eligibility Requirements
7 requirements
Documents Checklist
4 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Create a new application on the official Boren website
Contact the Boren Awards campus representative at your institution for guidance
Select or design an eligible overseas study program
Draft essays focusing on professional goals and national security implications
Submit the application by the national deadline
Application Timeline
Fall 2026
Application Opening
January 27, 2027
National Deadline
Mid-to-late April 2027
Notification of Selection
June 2027
Earliest Program Start
March 1, 2028
Latest Program Start
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Reach out to your campus representative as early as possible for feedback on your essays.
Clearly articulate the connection between your proposed study and U.S. national security interests.
Ensure your proposed program meets the 15-20 hour weekly language study requirement.
If you are a STEM major, you can apply for shorter 8-week summer programs.
Check if your institution has an earlier internal campus deadline.
Review the list of preferred languages and destinations to strengthen your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions - click any to expand
Yes, community college students are encouraged to apply. You should apply from your current institution and indicate where you plan to transfer.
No, Boren Awards are for in-person, immersive overseas study. Online programs do not qualify.
You may receive other financial aid, provided the funding does not overlap for the same expenses. You must report all additional funding to your Boren advisor.
No, you do not need prior experience. The program aims to expand opportunities for students who have not studied abroad.
Accuracy notice: Information on this page was verified as of May 2026. Scholarship details - including deadlines, eligibility criteria, and required documents - can change without notice. Always confirm the latest requirements on the official website before submitting your application.
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