The University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) provides a variety of scholarships to help students pursue foreign study. USAC awards more than $1.25 million in scholarships, grants, and discounts each year to help students pay for their studies abroad.
The scholarships are awarded three times per year, guaranteeing that students can discover appropriate financial opportunities regardless of the term they select.
Benefits of Applying as an International Student
International students have distinct benefits when applying for USAC scholarships, including:
- Diverse Funding Opportunities: From regional scholarships to term-specific help, there are numerous choices to meet a wide range of requirements.
- Access awards: These awards are specifically designed for underrepresented groups and improve international students’ access.
- No Application Fees: The USAC scholarship application procedure is free, making it easier to get started without financial constraints.
International students can considerably reduce their fees by taking advantage of these scholarships, paving the way for more enriching educational opportunities.
- Summer/January terms: USD 1,500
- Semester terms: USD 2,500
- Community College: Up to USD 1,500
- Military Service: USD 1,750
- STEM: Summer/January terms: USD 1,000; Semester: USD 1,500.
USAC Scholarships Eligibility Requirements
- To be eligible for the USAC scholarship as an international student, you must meet the following requirements:
- Minimum GPA: Applicants must have a GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
- Enrollment Requirements: Students must be enrolled in a degree-seeking program at a US college or institution.
Scholarships are only available to students who participate in USAC programs; non-USAC experiences do not qualify.
For many applicants, completing these requirements is a feasible objective. To keep ahead, ensure that your academic achievement meets these benchmarks.
Additional program-specific scholarships include
- Lin Yuejun Lang Asia Scholarship: Asia programs; GPA 2.5+ (preference for China programs)
- Dr. Marianne Cooley Scholarship: China programs; GPA 2.5+ (preference for yearlong)
- University of Bristol Scholarship: USD 5,000 for England programs; GPA 3.0, first-gen or high financial need preferred
- London Met Diversity Scholarship: GBP 1,000 for London–Met programs; GPA 2.7+, essay required
- Frank & Thu Triplett Scholarship: USD 1,000 for France programs; GPA 2.5+, high financial need preferred
- Discover the World Scholarship: USD 750 (summer) / USD 1,000 (semester) for Bengaluru or Stellenbosch programs; GPA 3.0, limited previous exposure preferred.
Documents Needed
When applying for the scholarship, candidates normally need to submit:
- Scholarship Application Form: Completed through the USAC Student Gateway.
- Academic transcript: Used to verify GPA and enrollment status.
- Personal Statement: A story that reveals personal experiences and goals.
Having these documents ready can help ensure a smooth application process, so getting started as soon as possible is highly encouraged.
Creating an Account on the USAC Scholarship Portal: Steps to Register.
Getting started with your USAC scholarship application involves a few simple steps to set up your account. First, go to the USAC Student Gateway portal.
Step 1: Click “Create Account.” then use the blue button above to apply for the USAC study abroad program.
Step 2: Fill in the required fields with your name, email address, and password.
Step 3: Complete your registration and wait for a confirmation email.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll be able to access the scholarship application!
Verifying your email address and personal information
- After you’ve registered, check your email for a confirmation link.
- Verify Your Email: Click the link to authenticate your account and obtain complete access to the portal.
- Update personal information: Once logged in, update your contact and academic information to ensure your profile is up to date.
This verification not only secures your account, but also allows for smooth contact with USAC during the application process.
Applying for USAC Scholarships
- Log in to your USAC Student Gateway Account and fill out the “Scholarship Application: Optional Form” in the “7+ Months Before Program Start” section on the documents page.
- Your scholarship application will be handled so that you can be considered for as many of the USAC Scholarships listed below as you are eligible.
- Submitting your application and monitoring its status
Uploading Required Documents
After filling out your application, make sure to upload all of the relevant papers. This is critical for a completed application. Here is a brief checklist:
- Personal Statement: A carefully prepared story that explains your desire to study abroad.
- Academic transcript: To confirm your GPA and enrollment status.
- Proof of Identity: A photocopy of your passport or a verification document.
Ensure that each document is properly formatted and uploaded to your USAC Student Gateway account. Double-checking is an excellent way to avoid last-minute difficulties!
Tracking Your Application’s Progress
After submitting your application, you can simply check its progress via the USAC Student Gateway.
- Application Status Updates: You will receive regular alerts via email regarding the status of your application.
- Expected timeline: You should receive a response within a month after the scholarship application deadline.
Keeping track of your application status will help you keep informed and prepared for the next steps in your journey.
Deadline and Notification Process for the USAC Scholarship
When applying for a USAC scholarship, it is critical to be aware of deadlines. Below are some important dates for the forthcoming application cycles:
- Winter/Spring 2026 programs begin October 1, 2026 (now open).
- Summer 2026 Programs: March 1, 2026 (Not Yet Open)
- Fall/Yearlong 2026/27 Programs: May 1, 2026 (not yet available)
Begin your application early to avoid any last-minute complications!
USAC Discounts
Returning/Extending Student Discounts
Students who complete a USAC semester/year program abroad are eligible for a $500 discount on a future semester/year Specialty Program or a $300 discount on a future on-site summer/January Specialty Program.
Students who complete a USAC summer, January, or faculty-led program will receive a $300 discount on a future on-site semester/year Specialty Program, or a $100 discount on a summer or January Specialty Program.
This discount is not valid for the online internship programs. Students who complete a USAC online course or virtual internship are eligible for a $300 program fee credit towards a future Semester Specialty Program abroad or a $100 program fee credit towards a future Summer Specialty Program abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Navigating the USAC scholarship application process can raise a number of questions. Here are a few common questions overseas students frequently have:
Who is eligible for USAC Scholarships?
All degree-seeking students enrolled in USAC programs with a minimum GPA of 2.5 may apply.
Can I apply if I am not from the United States?
Absolutely! International students are welcome to apply; however, keep in mind that USAC scholarships are only available to students enrolled in USAC programs.
What happens if I miss the application deadline?
Unfortunately, late submissions will not be accepted, so be proactive and submit on time.
Conclusion
USAC provides a complete and accessible funding pathway for study abroad through a single application. With careful planning and attention to details, students can reduce program expenditures while expanding global learning possibilities.
