Gilman-McCain Scholarship 2026-27 | $5,000 Study Abroad Scholarship
The U.S. Department of State provides $5,000 awards through the Gilman-McCain Scholarship for undergraduate children and spouses of active or activated U.S. military personnel. This funding supports credit-bearing study abroad and international internship programs.
Overview
The Gilman-McCain Scholarship is offered by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs to support undergraduate children and spouses of serving U.S. military personnel. Selected participants receive funding to study abroad or complete international internships across different regions of the world, helping them develop leadership and career readiness skills while building a global perspective. The program features no application fee.
Benefits
- A scholarship award of $5,000 for credit-bearing study or intern-abroad programs.
- Supplemental awards available for students pursuing STEM-related coursework, internships, or language study necessary for national security.
Eligibility
- Must be a citizen or national of the United States.
- Must be an undergraduate student with a good academic record at a U.S. higher education institution.
- Must be a dependent (child or spouse) of active or activated U.S. military personnel during the application period.
- Must be a recipient of any type of Title IV federal financial aid or provide proof of receiving it during the study abroad program or internship.
- Must be applying for or accepted to a credit-bearing study or intern abroad program in a country with a U.S. State Department Travel Advisory Level 1 or 2.
How to Apply
Candidates can complete their submissions online by following these steps:
- Create a new account using the temporary PIN sent via email and set a password.
- Select 'Start New Application' and answer the eligibility questions.
- Complete the advisor selection portion, personal information, and current institution details.
- Upload required documents including transcripts, advisor certification, and citizenship proof.
- Provide academic history, abroad program information, and international experience details.
- Complete all short essay questions, financial aid questions, and any additional requested information.
- Review the details, provide consent, and submit the application.
Deadline
The final date to submit applications is October 1, 2026.