WACA Student Scholars Program 2026: Fully Funded National Conference Opportunity for Undergraduate Students
The World Affairs Councils of America (WACA) Student Scholars Program 2026 offers undergraduate students fully funded participation in the WACA National Conference and Scholar Day in Washington, DC. Selected scholars receive coverage for conference attendance along with travel and lodging financial support.
Overview
The World Affairs Councils of America (WACA) Student Scholars Program 2026 provides undergraduate students with firsthand exposure to international affairs, diplomacy, global policy, and world affairs careers. Selected participants attend the WACA National Conference at no cost and take part in Scholar Day, an exclusive Washington, DC experience featuring visits to think tanks, embassies, and international organizations.
WACA supports selected scholars by providing $1,250 to their nominating Council to help offset travel and lodging expenses. In return, participants must submit an evaluation and a brief experience report within two weeks following the conference.
Benefits
Fully funded attendance at the WACA National Conference.
Financial assistance for travel and double-occupancy lodging distributed via the nominating Council.
Exclusive access to Scholar Day institutional tours in Washington, DC.
Professional networking and career exploration opportunities across global affairs fields.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Be currently enrolled as an undergraduate student.
Be at least 18 years old.
Attend a local college or university within an eligible WACA Council community.
Be selected and officially nominated by their local WACA Council.
The following individuals are not eligible to apply:
High school students and graduate students.
College students studying in Greater Washington, DC (the DMV).
Prior nominees who were not selected.
How to Apply
The application process requires coordination between the applicant and their local Council in two distinct stages:
Stage 1 (Local Selection): Contact your local WACA Council to understand its internal nomination timeline and secure its endorsement. Each Council is permitted to nominate only one undergraduate student.
Stage 2 (National Application): Once nominated, complete WACA's online student application form, submit a current resume, provide a 1–2 page Letter of Intent, and ensure that a professor's letter of recommendation is delivered to the Council.
Deadline
The application deadline for the 2026 WACA Student Scholars Program is Friday, September 25, 2026, at 11:59 PM EDT.