Award amount$165 reimbursement for U.S. passport application fees for eligible finalists
Last checkedJun 28, 2026
FAQ
Critical Language Scholarship Frequently Asked Questions
Official FAQ page for the Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) program, covering eligibility requirements, application processes, military affiliation, enrollment status, and program participation policies.
Must be a U.S. citizen; Must be enrolled in a degree-seeking program at an accredited U.S. institution at the time of application; Must be 18 years old by May 15, 2026; Must have completed a full year (two semesters or three quarters) of college by the start of the program; Naturalized citizens must be naturalized by the application deadline in November
Requirements
Must enter the host country on a U.S. passport; Applicants with military affiliation may be subject to additional travel and clearance restrictions; Must be enrolled in a degree-granting program at an accredited U.S.-based university; Must demonstrate enrollment status if selected as a finalist
Application materials
Official transcript; CLS Enrollment Confirmation form (if applicable); Signed letter from program provider (for co-op/internship/study abroad participants)
How to apply
Apply through the official CLS online application portal; Contact cls@americancouncils.org for specific eligibility questions regarding enrollment status