Award amount$165 reimbursement for U.S. passport application fees for eligible finalists
Last checkedJun 28, 2026
Eligibility
Critical Language Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
Official eligibility criteria for the 2026 Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) program, including citizenship, enrollment, and academic standing requirements.
Must be a U.S. citizen or national at the time of application.; Must be at least 18 years old by May 15, 2026.; Must be enrolled in an accredited U.S. degree-granting program (undergraduate or graduate) at the time of application.; Must be enrolled in at least one credit-bearing class at or through their home institution in fall 2025 (exceptions available for specific study abroad, fellowship, or...; Must maintain good academic standing throughout the application and program period.; Undergraduate applicants must complete at least one full year of study by the beginning of the CLS Program in summer 2026.
Requirements
Permanent Residents and individuals awaiting naturalization are not eligible.; Students enrolled in non-degree programs (certificates, continuing education) are not eligible.; Students earning degrees at foreign institutions outside the U.S. are not eligible.; Applicants may only apply for one language per year.; Employees and immediate family members of the U.S. Department of State or specific contractors are ineligible for a period of one year following termination of service.
Application materials
CLS Enrollment Confirmation form (for those not taking classes in the fall term); Signed letter from program provider (for those not taking classes in the fall term)
Important dates
May 15, 2026: Age requirement deadline; Fall 2025: Enrollment requirement period; Spring 2026: Enrollment requirement period; Summer 2026: CLS Program start date