Critical Language Scholarship Program

The State Department’s Critical Language Scholarship Program offers an intensive eight-week summer experience for undergraduate and graduate students building proficiency in critical languages. The 2027 program lists nine options: Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, Persian, Portuguese, Russian, and Swahili. Some institutes are abroad and others virtual, depending on the language and program.

The 2027 application deadline is November 17, 2026, at 8 p.m. Eastern. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or nationals, be at least 18 by May 15, 2027, and be enrolled in a degree-granting program at an accredited U.S. institution. Undergraduate applicants must complete one full year of college before the program begins.

The program combines intensive language instruction with cultural activities and allows applicants to choose only one language each year. Enrollment in continuing-education classes or a stand-alone certificate is not enough; eligibility depends on active degree-program enrollment and language-specific requirements. This is competitive program participation, not a cash award to spend at any college or on any trip.

Complete the form through the linked portal and make sure it is submitted before the cutoff rather than merely saved as a draft. Review language placement, entry requirements, and passport rules for the host country. The program says requirements and locations may change between cycles; use the 2027 page and direct CLS updates when planning courses, work, and travel.

Official program information and application