Office of Merit Scholarships, Fellowships & Awards (OMSFA)

There are many scholarships available to students who are studying languages other than English, especially languages that are considered "less commonly taught" in the US (generally languages other than French, Spanish or German).

Scholarships that support language study often include some immersion in a community where the language is predominantly used. Students may live with a host family to get the cultural contexts as well as have daily use and application of the language. In addition to classroom lessons, language study programs may offer internships, community/cultural engagement opportunities and practice partners.

Some (but not all) of these scholarship opportunities require students who receive scholarships to fulfill a work or service commitment after completing the language study program. So it is important to do your research on these opportunities to know whether they are aligned with your interests and goals.

Additional resources

• Check out the International experience guide, which includes many more scholarships that highly value language skills.
• Global Fellowships Prep is OMSFA's collection of resources and supports specifically aimed at unique international opportunities. Register to participate, all UW students and alumni are welcome.