Critical Language Scholarship

Deadline: November

The Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program is a summer study abroad opportunity for American college and university students who would like to learn languages essential to America’s engagement with the world. Students spend eight to ten weeks abroad during the summer learning one of fifteen critical languages. 

For a full list of languages offered, and proficiency requirements for each, click here: Link to program description with language overview.

*Notice that some languages do not have any proficiency requirement. 

  • Travel (international and domestic) between student’s home city and the CLS Program site
  • Visa application fees
  • Room, board, language instruction, and program-sponsored travel within the host country
  • Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) language assessments 
  • U.S. academic credit through Bryn Mawr College (8 credits)
  • Be a U.S. citizen or U.S. national
  • Be an undergraduate (or graduate) student at an accredited U.S. institution
  • Be at least 18 years old

Link to complete eligibility requirements

Deadlines: 

  • Mid-November 2025

Campus Contacts:

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Visit Scholarship Website
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