Boren Scholarships and Fellowships: National Security Language Initiative

The Boren Awards program represents a strategic U.S. government initiative funding American students to study less commonly taught languages in world regions critical to national security interests. Established by the National Security Education Act of 1991, the program provides up to $25,000 for undergraduates (Scholarships) and $30,000 for graduate students (Fellowships). Recipients commit to working for the federal government in national security positions for at least one year after graduation. The program particularly emphasizes long-term immersive experiences, with preference for proposals lasting six months or longer.

Strategic Languages and Regions

Funding prioritizes study of languages considered crucial for future security challenges but underrepresented in U.S. higher education, including Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, and Swahili. Geographic preferences focus on regions typically underrepresented in study abroad, including Africa, Asia, Central and Eastern Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. The program values proposals demonstrating how language proficiency and regional expertise will contribute specifically to national security broadly defined, including challenges like climate change, global health, and economic stability. Applications must include detailed language acquisition plans showing how the proposed program will significantly advance linguistic capabilities. Students design their own programs, often combining formal language study with cultural immersion experiences, internships, or research projects. Preference goes to applicants studying at the intermediate or advanced level, though beginners in critical languages receive consideration. The selection committee values proposals demonstrating a clear connection between the applicant’s academic background, the proposed study plan, and future career goals in government service. Many recipients integrate their language study with disciplinary specializations in fields like international relations, public health, environmental science, or cybersecurity.

Service Requirement and Career Impact

The defining feature of Boren Awards is the service requirement, obligating recipients to seek employment with federal agencies involved in national security affairs. The program’s dedicated career counselors assist scholars in navigating federal hiring processes and identifying appropriate positions matching their skills. Many recipients successfully secure positions with the Departments of State, Defense, Homeland Security, or intelligence agencies. The Boren experience typically accelerates federal career advancement due to the rare language capabilities and international experience it provides.