Student Scholarships

The Center for International Studies invites undergraduate and graduate students to apply for our scholarships for summer 2025, fall 2025, and spring 2026. 
 

The deadline for all CIS scholarships is March 15. 
 
This CIS Common Application allows you to be considered for one or more relevant scholarships. As part of the application submission process, you will be required to upload a personal statement, transcript/DARS report, and academic resume/CV. 
 
The application asks you to indicate which scholarship(s) you wish to apply for. 

• Daniel K.C. Shao Scholarship: Provides up to $2,500 support to any Ohio University student to study abroad as part of their program of study, with a preference for Hong Kong, China, or other Asian countries. 

• Center for International Studies General Scholarship Endowment: Provides up to $1,500 support for any undergraduate CIS student (majors, minors, certificates). 

• Boundless Scholarship: Provides up to $1,500 support for any undergraduate or graduate CIS student (majors, minors, certificates) pursuing study away experiences, including domestic and international study away programs, student exchanges, internships, volunteer opportunities and research. Study away experiences must be at least two weeks in duration. 

• Center for International Studies Fund for Student Travel, Research, and Internships: Provides up to $1,500 support to any undergraduate or graduate CIS student for travel support for thesis or project research, conferences, and/or internships. 

• David M. Crane Graduate Fellowship for International Affairs: Provides $9,500 support for one year to an applicant in any CIS MA program, with a preference for OHIO undergraduate alumni. 

Application Instructions: 

The common application directs you to submit an application form as well as the following: 

1. If you are applying for funding to support international travel, please provide the program name (if applicable), program city and country, program dates, and relevant faculty director or sponsor. 

2. Please provide the name, title, and email address of a faculty member who can provide a recommendation supporting your qualifications for the scholarship(s) you are applying for. 

3. Upload Personal Statement: Your personal statement is a critical component of your scholarship application and should be crafted with care. In approximately 600 words, please describe the opportunity for which you are seeking funding and how it aligns with your academic and professional goals.  Only PDF files are accepted. 

Depending on the scholarship you are applying for, your statement should address the following: 

• If you are requesting funding for an international experience (such as study abroad, internship, research travel), describe the program, its objectives, and how it fits into your broader academic and career trajectory. 

• If you are applying for scholarship support toward your degree program, explain how this funding will enhance your studies, professional development, and ability to achieve your long-term goals. 

• In all cases, highlight the skills, experiences, and qualifications that demonstrate your ability to successfully engage in and benefit from this opportunity. 

Your personal statement should be well-structured, reflective, and compelling, demonstrating both your passion and preparedness for this opportunity. 

4. Please upload your current transcript or DARS report. 

5. Please upload your most recent academic résumé or CV. Your document should highlight your educational background, relevant experiences, research, internships, language skills, and any other qualifications that support your scholarship application. Only PDF files are accepted. 

If you have questions about any of these funding opportunities or have application issues, please contact Bri Dowler (opens in a new window), Assistant Director for Student Success and Communications.