Boren Fellowships
Boren Fellowships fund U.S. graduate students for intensive language study and research abroad in regions and languages critical to U.S. national security, supported by the Institute of International Education.
Funder: Institute of International Education
Due Dates: January 20, 2027 (Boren Fellowships national application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $25,000 for 25–52 weeks; up to $12,500 for 12–24 weeks; up to $30,000 total with optional $5,000 for domestic summer language study.
Summary: Supports U.S. graduate students to pursue intensive language study and research abroad in regions and languages critical to U.S. national security interests.
Key Information: One-year federal service commitment required after graduation.
Description
The Boren Fellowships provide funding for U.S. graduate students to incorporate intensive language and international study into their academic programs. The fellowships focus on world regions and languages deemed critical to U.S. interests and underrepresented in study abroad. Fellows can design their own overseas study or participate in established Flagship Language Initiatives, with the goal of deepening language proficiency and area studies expertise. The program is designed to prepare participants for careers in sectors related to U.S. national security, broadly defined to include sustainable development, global health, environmental issues, and economic competitiveness.
