Application Deadline: Monday, December 8, 2008.
The National Security Education Program (NSEP) is a unique scholarship opportunity for U.S. undergraduates to gain knowledge of languages and cultures in areas of the world less frequently studied. The NSEP awards scholarships to American students for study of world regions critical to U.S. interests (including Africa, Asia, Central and Eastern Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Middle East). The NSEP aims to build a strong base for future leaders with expertise in critical areas, as well as professionals in both the public and private sectors who have the international experience and language skills necessary for competitive performance and visionary leadership in the global arena. All recipients of NSEP awards must seek employment with a federal agency or office involved in national security affairs. If, after a "good faith" effort, you are unsuccessful in identifying federal employment you can fulfill the requirement through work in the field of higher education in an area of study for which the scholarship was awarded. Duration of study may be a summer, semester or a full academic year; awards range from $6,000 to $20,000 for a full academic year.
For more information and application materials, visit the NSEP website: http://www.iie.org/programs/nsep/undergraduate/default.htm
Eligibility
- A U.S. citizen at the time of application.
- Matriculated as a freshman, sophomore, or junior at UMass.
- Applying to engage in a study abroad experience that meets UMass standards.
- Planning to use the scholarship for study abroad and the study abroad program ends before you graduate.
Selection process
Students receiving NSEP awards will be selected on the basis of merit with consideration for:
- Academic record and potential to succeed in the proposed study abroad experience.
- Commitment to international education to fulfill academic and career goals.
- Language interest and aptitude.
- The quality and appropriateness of the proposed program and its relevance to NSEP.
The guide for applications is available online at: www.iie.org/programs/nsep/undergraduate/application.htm
- Completed and forwarded online application to NSEP campus representative
- Completed letters of reference. Two letters required; three optional.
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Freshmen must also include high school transcripts.
- (a) One page study abroad program description with cost information (this may be a photocopy of part of a brochure or a page from the provider's website) OR
(b) Letters of support for direct enrollment and individually arranged study
You may request an unofficial transcript, to be sent to ONSA. Please do this at least 5 days prior to listed deadline.
Applications, which are due by December 8, 2008, in ONSA will be evaluated by a campus selection committee, a regional committee and the national nominating panel. Award recipients are announced in late May, 2009.
