Boren Awards
The Boren Awards are sponsored by the National Security Education Program (NSEP), an initiative of the Defense Language and National Security Education Office (DLNSEO).The Boren Awards provide funding for U.S. undergraduate (Boren Scholars) and graduate (Boren Fellows) students to acquire language skills and experiences through studying less commonly taught languages in world regions underrepresented in study abroad that are critical to the future security and stability of the United States. Boren Awards require rigorous language study and most recipients study overseas for 6 months or longer, though some go for a semester. A limited number of undergraduate students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields may be funded for summer programs of at least 8 weeks.
Application Materials
- Application
- Two letters of recommendation
- Essay
- Transcript(s)
What they’re looking for
- High school graduate or GED
- At least 18 years of age
- Planning on overseas program in a country outside the following:
- Western Europe
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Studying in a country which applicant is not a citizen
In exchange for financial support, Boren Scholars and Fellows commit to working in the federal government for at least one year after graduation. It is the responsibility of the award recipient to secure federal employment.