Boren Awards – Undergraduate and Graduate: Key Deadlines, Fellowship Types, and Funding Overview
The Boren Awards offer U.S. undergraduate and graduate students a unique opportunity to study less commonly taught languages in regions critical to U.S. national security. These awards combine language acquisition, cultural immersion, and academic research, equipping participants with the skills and knowledge needed to address global challenges. With competitive funding, structured support, and a strong alumni network, the Boren Awards are a gateway to careers in international affairs, defense, and diplomacy.
About the Boren Awards
Program Overview
The Boren Awards for International Study are administered by the Institute of International Education (IIE) on behalf of the National Security Education Program (NSEP). The program aims to:
- Promote proficiency in less commonly taught languages.
- Enhance cultural competency and understanding of world regions vital to U.S. national security.
- Prepare participants for careers in government, defense, and international relations.
Duration: Programs range from 8 weeks to 52 weeks, depending on the award type and study plan.
Mode of Study: Full-time, in-person study abroad in eligible regions.
Eligible Study Regions: Countries outside Western Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Focus Areas
The Boren Awards prioritize fields aligned with U.S. national security interests, including:
- STEM Disciplines: Engineering, Cybersecurity, Environmental Science, Health Sciences.
- Social Sciences & Humanities: International Relations, Political Science, Anthropology, History, Economics.
- Language and Cultural Studies: Advanced study of languages deemed critical to national security.
Eligibility Criteria
For Boren Scholarships (Undergraduate Students):
- Citizenship: U.S. citizen at the time of application.
- Enrollment Status: Enrolled in an accredited U.S. undergraduate program.
- Field of Study: Open to all fields, with preference for areas relevant to national security.
- Language Focus: Must study a less commonly taught language (excluding English, French, German, and Spanish).
- Study Abroad Requirement: Must commit to studying in a Boren-eligible country for the designated period.
For Boren Fellowships (Graduate Students):
- Citizenship: U.S. citizen at the time of application.
- Academic Level: Enrolled in or applying to a graduate degree program in an accredited U.S. institution.
- Program Options: Language study, academic research, or an internship in a critical region.
- Preferred Experience: Prior language study or international experience is beneficial but not mandatory.
- Service Requirement: Recipients must work for the U.S. government in a national security-related role for at least one year after graduation.
Financial Support and Benefits
Boren Scholarships (Undergraduate Students):
| Study Duration | Award Amount |
| 8-11 weeks (STEM only) | $8,000 |
| 12-24 weeks | $12,500 |
| 25-52 weeks | $25,000 |
Boren Fellowships (Graduate Students):
| Study Duration | Award Amount |
| 12-24 weeks overseas | $12,500 |
| Summer domestic + 12-24 weeks overseas | $17,500 |
| 25-52 weeks overseas | $25,000 |
| Summer domestic + 25-52 weeks overseas | $30,000 |
Covered Expenses:
- Tuition and program fees.
- Room and board, books, and visa-related costs.
- Round-trip airfare (Fly America Act compliant).
- Overseas health insurance and local transportation.
- Research-related expenses (for graduate fellows only).
Exclusions:
- Passport fees, medical expenses, and personal electronics.
- Non-compliant flights and dependent expenses.
Key Application Deadlines
| Award Type | Application Deadline |
| Boren Fellowships | January 22, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. ET |
| Boren Scholarships | January 29, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. ET |
Predicted Timeline for Boren Awards 2026
| Stage | Predicted Date/Period | Details |
| Program Announcement & Application Window Opens | Early Fall 2025 (September – October) | The program is typically announced well in advance, allowing applicants several months to prepare. |
| Application Deadline for Boren Fellowships (Graduate) | Late January 2026 (Approx. January 22, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET) | Historically, the fellowship deadline has fallen in mid-to-late January. This estimate follows the pattern of previous cycles. |
| Application Deadline for Boren Scholarships (Undergraduate) | Late January 2026 (Approx. January 29, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET) | Typically, the scholarship deadline is scheduled shortly after the fellowship deadline. |
| Initial Application Review | Early February 2026 | Following submission, reviewers generally begin evaluating applications shortly after the January deadlines. |
| Notification for Interview Invitations & Scheduling | Mid February 2026 | Finalist candidates are usually notified in mid-February, with interviews scheduled soon after. |
| Finalist Interviews | Late February to Early April 2026 | Interviews (conducted either in-person or virtually) are arranged to assess applicants’ alignment with national security goals and program fit. |
| Final Selections & Award Decisions Announced | Mid April to Early May 2026 | Official decisions are typically communicated by mid-April to early May, allowing successful applicants ample time to plan their study arrangements. |
| Notification of Funding Details & Pre-Departure Briefings | May/June 2026 | Detailed information regarding funding disbursement, visa processing, and other preparatory instructions is provided during this period. |
| Program Start Dates | Summer or Fall 2026 (varies by award and study plan) | Depending on the program specifics (e.g., summer language immersion vs. academic year programs), start dates can vary accordingly. |
Application Process
- Research the Program: Review eligible countries, preferred languages, and program expectations.
- Prepare Application Materials:
- Personal statement and essays detailing career goals and national security relevance.
- Letters of recommendation from faculty or professional mentors.
- Budget proposal outlining estimated costs.
- Official academic transcripts.
- Submit Application Online: Applications must be submitted through the Boren Awards portal.
- Interview and Selection Process: Finalists may be required to participate in an interview.
Service Obligation Requirement
Boren Award recipients commit to working for the U.S. federal government in a national security-related capacity for at least one year. Eligible employment sectors include:
- Department of Defense (DoD).
- Department of State.
- Intelligence Community Agencies.
- Other government agencies contributing to national security.
Why Choose the Boren Awards?
- Comprehensive Financial Support: Competitive funding covering tuition, travel, and living expenses.
- Global Exposure: Study in regions critical to U.S. national security and gain cross-cultural competence.
- Career Advancement: Access to a network of alumni in government and international organizations.
- Personal Growth: Develop language proficiency, leadership skills, and a deeper understanding of global issues.
Who Should Apply?
The Boren Awards are ideal for:
- Undergraduate Students: Seeking to enhance their language skills and cultural understanding.
- Graduate Students: Pursuing advanced research or internships in critical regions.
- Aspiring Professionals: Aiming for careers in national security, diplomacy, or international relations.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Tailor your essays to highlight your commitment to national security and language study.
- Seek strong letters of recommendation from faculty or mentors familiar with your academic and professional goals.
- Proofread your application to ensure clarity and accuracy.
- Start early to allow ample time for research and preparation.
Contact Information
For more details or assistance, contact:
- Email: boren@iie.org
- Phone: 1-800-618-NSEP (6737)
- Official Website: Boren Awards Website
Summary Table for Quick Reference
| Field | Details |
| Program Name | Boren Awards for International Study |
| Administering Institution | Institute of International Education (IIE) |
| Eligibility | U.S. Undergraduate and Graduate students |
| Funding Amount | Up to $30,000 (Graduate) / $25,000 (Undergraduate) |
| Preferred Fields | International Relations, Political Science, STEM |
| Application Deadline | Jan 22, 2025 (Fellowships) / Jan 29, 2025 (Scholarships) |
By leveraging the Boren Awards, you can unlock a future filled with global opportunities and professional success. Apply now and take the first step toward a rewarding career in national security and international relations!
