USA Gilman-McCain Scholarships 2026

January 13, 2026 8:05 am

USA Gilman-McCain Scholarships 2026

If financial barriers are holding you back from an international study or internship experience in 2026, take action now. The esteemed Gilman Program has officially launched its 2026 application cycle. This critical guide provides clear, actionable information so you can apply confidently for this transformative funding.

Understanding the Gilman Program’s Support

Specifically, the Gilman Program exists to make global education accessible. It provides direct financial assistance to cover costs that typically prevent students from going abroad. Recipients can use the award funds for:

Approved study abroad program fees.
Credit bearing international internship costs.
Essential travel and living expenses related to their program.
Both the Gilman McCain Scholarship and the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship offer awards of up to $5,000.

Two Major Funding Opportunities for 2026

Currently, two distinct scholarships are accepting applications, each serving a dedicated student group.

Gilman McCain Scholarship: Child and spousal dependents of active U.S. military personnel
Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship: U.S. undergraduate students demonstrating high financial need

Additional Award Opportunities

Moreover, eligible applicants can compete for supplemental awards that increase total funding.

STEM Supplemental Award: This is for students undertaking coursework or an internship abroad in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math fields.
Critical Need Language Award: This supports students studying languages vital for national security and global engagement, particularly in regions where those languages are spoken.

Confirm Your Eligibility

You should apply for the Gilman McCain Scholarship if you are a child or spouse dependent of an active U.S. service member and an undergraduate student using federal financial aid for a credit bearing international program.

You qualify to apply for the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship if you are a U.S. citizen, an undergraduate in good standing, a current Federal Pell Grant recipient, and planning a study abroad or internship program in the 2026-2027 period.

How to Apply

Click Here to Apply

Application Timeline

The Gilman McCain Scholarship deadline arrives first. You must submit your complete application by January 8, 2026. Following that, the main Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship application portal will open in mid January. Subsequently, you will have until March 5, 2026, to prepare and submit your application for this second opportunity.

Your Immediate Next Steps

First, visit the official Gilman Program website to review detailed criteria and access the application portal. Next, gather your necessary documents, including proof of program acceptance and financial aid information. Then, begin drafting your required essays early, ensuring they clearly articulate your goals and how this experience will impact your academic and professional future.

Do not let this chance for funding pass you by. Start your application today to take a decisive step toward an affordable international experience in 2026.