Students are responsible for the program costs and tuition that they incur while on a study abroad program. There are many ways students can fund their study abroad experience.
“Studying abroad can be inexpensive if you plan ahead!”
-Megan Jaklitsch, Past participant
FINANCIAL AID
Students
who plan to participate in study abroad programs may qualify
for financial aid. Subsidized and/or unsubsidized Stafford
loan may be awarded to cover the costs of the program.
Study abroad students are eligible for the same federal
and state financial aid programs as if they are attending
WKU.
Financial aid for which students may be eligible:
Federal Pell Grant
Federal Supplemental Opportunity Grant
CAP Grant (College Access Program)
Federal Stafford Loan (subsidized and unsubsidized)
Federal Perkins Loan
PLUS (Parent Loan to Undergraduate Students)
Alternative Loans (from private lenders) include:
Key Loans
CitiAssist
TERI
*These require a credit check and may require a co-signer.
Eligibility may vary depending on whether the study abroad program is during the regular school year (fall/spring) or during a summer period. Students should visit the Financial Aid Office to determine their eligibility.
SCHOLARSHIPS
Usually, students must be accepted in the study abroad program prior to applying for a scholarship. Scholarships are awarded based on students’ academic performance, desire to study abroad, overall conduct, and financial need. Eligibility may vary depending on the nature of scholarships.
The WorldTopper Scholarship
For Western Kentucky University students who demonstrate financial need and merit. Recipients must complete a follow-up project.
Amount:Up to $500.00 for short-term programs; Up to a $1000.00 for long-term programsBenjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program
For undergraduate U.S. citizen or permanent residents who participate in Western Kentucky University studying abroad programs.
Required overall GPA: 3.5; Amount: $5,000 depending on the length of study abroad programCCSA Scholarship
For full-time WKU students who participate in CCSA study abroad program.
Required overall GPA: 3.0; Amount: $200-$300Finley C. Grise Award
For Western Kentucky University students who majors in Modern Language and Intercultural Studies. Students need to have one year of one foreign languages, including one 300 level class, before studying abroad
Required overall GPA: 3.0 overall, 3.5 major; Amount: $200Freeman Asia Scholarship
For undergraduate U.S. citizen or permanent residents studying abroad in East and Southeast Asia. Upon return, the applicants will be expected to propose a service plan to share their experience with Western Kentucky University to encourage study in Asia by others.
Required overall GPA: 3.5; Amount: $3,000-$7,000,depending on the length of study abroad program
Fullbright U.S Student Program
For recent BS/BA graduates, master’s and doctoral candidates, and young professional and artists opportunities for personal development and international experience.
Required overall GPA: 3.5; Amount: Depending on the length of study abroad programKIIS Kenneth E. Harrell Scholarship
For full-time WKU students who participate in KIIS study abroad program.
Required overall GPA: 3.0; Amount: $500NSEP David L. Boren Undergraduate Scholarship
For undergraduate U.S. citizen or permanent residents who participate in Western Kentucky University studying abroad programs. Upon return, the awardees are required to seek employment with a federal agency or involved in national security affairs.
Required overall GPA: 3.5; Amount: $2,500 - $6,000 depending on the length of study abroad programThe William Ralph Walls. Jr. International Travel Award
For Western Kentucky University students who majors in Modern Language and Intercultural Studies. Students need to have 12 credit hours or equivalent in one foreign languages before studying abroad.
Required overall GPA: 3.0 overall, 3.5 major; Amount: $200
Other scholarship opportunities available at IIE Passport's Study Abroad Funding.
