National Deadline: Jan. 22, 2025, 2 p.m. (Pacific)
David L. Boren Graduate Fellowships, an initiative of the National Security Education Program, provide unique funding opportunities for U.S. graduate students to study less commonly taught languages in world regions critical to U.S. interests, and regions that are underrepresented in study abroad programs, including Africa, Asia, Central and Eastern Europe, Eurasia, Latin America and the Middle East. The countries of Western Europe, Canada, Australia and New Zealand are excluded.
Boren fellows represent a vital pool of highly motivated individuals who wish to work in the federal national security arena. In exchange for funding, Boren fellows commit to working in the federal government for at least one year after graduation.
The fellowships provide up to $25,000 for overseas study. In addition, Boren Fellowships can provide limited funding for domestic language study to supplement the overseas component. The maximum award for a combined overseas and domestic program is $30,000.
Information sessions
Check our Events & Deadlines calendar for upcoming information sessions. Sessions are typically held in autumn quarter.
Additional informational resources and webinar recordings are available on the Boren Awards website.
Eligibility
Boren Fellowships are for graduate students. You are eligible to apply if you are:
- A U.S. citizen at the time of application.
- Either matriculated in or applying to a graduate degree program at an accredited college or university in the United States. Boren Fellows must remain matriculated in their graduate programs for the duration of the fellowship and may not graduate until the fellowship is complete.
- Planning an overseas program that meets home institution standards in a country outside of Western Europe, Canada, Australia or New Zealand. Boren Fellowships are not for study in the United States.
Application process
All application materials will be submitted online directly by the applicant; be sure to select the University of Washington as your current institution. We encourage you to seek application feedback from our office prior to submitting your materials.
Apply for the Boren Fellowship
Additional resources
- IIE sponsored webinars
- List of current Boren Fellows from all institutions
- Reflections from a former UW Boren Fellow
Questions?
Michelle Sutton in the Office of Fellowships and Awards can assist you with questions and provide application support.