National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y)
NSLI-Y offers U.S. high school students immersive overseas or virtual programs to study critical world languages and gain cultural understanding.
Funder: American Councils for International Education
Due Dates: November 12, 2025 (Summer & Academic Year application) | November 19, 2025 (Recommendations & Legal Guardian Statement) | February 25, 2026 (Medical Evaluation Form) | June 8, 2026 (Virtual NSLI-Y Fall 2026 application) | June 11, 2026 (Virtual NSLI-Y Recommendation Letter)
Funding Amounts: Fully funded scholarships cover tuition, travel, housing, meals, and program activities for selected high school students.
Summary: Merit-based scholarships for U.S. high school students to study critical world languages through immersive overseas or virtual programs.
Key Information: No previous language study required; eligibility is limited to U.S. citizens aged 15–18.
Description
The National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) provides fully funded, merit-based scholarships for U.S. high school students (ages 15–18) to study critical languages through immersive overseas programs or virtual learning. Administered by the American Councils for International Education in partnership with the U.S. Department of State, NSLI-Y aims to foster language proficiency and cultural understanding in languages vital to U.S. national security. Students participate in intensive language classes, live with host families (for in-person programs), and engage in cultural activities. No prior language experience is required, and students at all proficiency levels are encouraged to apply.
