The John S. McCain International Scholarship for Military Families (Gilman-McCain Scholarship) is now accepting applications for the Fall 2026 cycle. The scholarship provides US$5,000 to eligible undergraduate students who are children or spouses of active or activated United States military personnel, enabling them to participate in credit-bearing study abroad or international internship programs. Funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) and administered by the Institute of International Education (IIE), the Gilman-McCain Scholarship aims to expand access to international education for military families while promoting global engagement and academic success. About the Gilman-McCain Scholarship Named in honor of the late Senator John S. McCain, the scholarship supports undergraduate students from U.S. military families who wish to study or intern abroad on academic programs that award credit toward their degree. The program recognizes the unique experiences of military families and seeks to increase their participation in international educational opportunities through financial assistance. Successful applicants receive a scholarship of US$5,000, which can help offset expenses associated with approved education abroad programs. Scholarship Benefits Each Gilman-McCain Scholarship recipient is awarded US$5,000 to support participation in a credit-bearing international study or internship program. The funding is intended to help students access overseas educational experiences that contribute directly to their undergraduate academic program while building cross-cultural and professional skills. Who Can Apply? Applicants must meet all eligibility requirements to be considered for the scholarship. Eligible applicants must: Be a U.S. citizen or national. Be an undergraduate student in good standing at an accredited U.S. college or university. Be the child or spouse of active or activated U.S. military personnel. Be receiving Title IV federal financial aid at the time of application or provide proof they will receive it during their study abroad program. Be applying to or accepted into a credit-bearing study abroad or international internship. Participate in a program located in a country with an overall U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory Level 1 or Level 2. The scholarship is available to dependents of personnel serving in the Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force, National Guard, Reserves, NOAA Commissioned Corps and USPHS Commissioned Corps. Eligible Study Abroad Destinations Gilman-McCain Scholars may only participate in programs located in countries or regions with an overall Travel Advisory Level 1 or Level 2. Programs located in destinations—or specific regions within destinations—classified as Level 3 (Reconsider Travel) or Level 4 (Do Not Travel) are not eligible. The U.S. Department of State may also require program changes if security conditions change before or during the scholarship period. Students planning to study in China should also verify that their host institution does not appear on the Section 1286 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) list of foreign institutions engaging in problematic activities. Application Process Applications for the Fall 2026 Gilman-McCain Scholarship are now open through the official online application system. Applicants should prepare their academic information, financial aid documentation and details of their proposed credit-bearing study abroad or internship program. Although proof of program acceptance is required before scholarship funds are disbursed, students may apply while they are still in the process of securing admission to an eligible program. Why Apply? The Gilman-McCain Scholarship helps military families access international educational opportunities that may otherwise be financially challenging. Beyond funding, recipients gain valuable international academic experience, strengthen intercultural competencies and develop skills that support future educational and professional success. The scholarship also contributes to the broader mission of expanding educational exchange and building mutual understanding through global learning experiences. How to Apply Interested students should complete their application through the official Gilman online application portal and ensure that all eligibility requirements and supporting documentation are met before submission. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) does not take ownership or credit for the opportunities shared on this platform. All opportunities are sourced from official announcements and external sources for informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying. Opportunities may be updated or changed by the providing organisations.