Fully funded summer experience to complete an intensive language immersion program overseas.

 

Application Deadline

November 19, 2025 at 1:00 AM

Duke Contact

Anna Bernard-Hoverstad
anna.bernard@duke.edu

Quick facts

Eligibility: Citizenship

U.S. Citizen

When to Apply

Sophomore Year, Junior Year, Senior Year

Campus Nomination Required?

No

Sponsoring Foundation Site

https://clscholarship.org/

Description

The Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program is an intensive overseas language and cultural immersion group-based program for American students enrolled at U.S. colleges and universities. Students spend eight to ten weeks abroad studying one of nine critical languages. The program includes intensive language instruction and structured cultural enrichment experiences designed to promote rapid language gains.

Participants are selected based on their commitment to language learning and plans to apply their language skills to their future academic or professional pursuits.

CLS Program Timeline
September/OctoberApplication opens
NovemberApplication closes
DecemberRound 1 reading begins
December/JanuaryRound 1 reading closes
January/FebruarySemifinalists notified
MarchFinalists notified
March - MayAlternates promoted on a rolling basis
JuneProgram begins
AugustProgram ends

Benefits

The Critical Language Scholarship organizes each summer experience, and the award will include travel, visa fees, and living expenses in the host country. 

Additionally, CLS participants will receive all textbooks and language-learning materials, as well as academic credit (issued through Bryn Mawr College) that is transferable to Duke University. 

Eligibility

Applicants must be U.S. Citizens enrolled as an undergraduate, graduate, or professional student at time of application.

Selection Criteria

  • Commitment to language learning
  • Preparation for and alignment with program expectations
  • Contribution to citizen diplomacy and national impact
  • Connection between language and academic and professional goals

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Samyuktha (Sam) Sreeram

Critical Language Scholar, Class of 2024
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Michelle Schultze

Critical Language Scholar, Class of 2025
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Abigail (Abby) Spiller

Critical Language Scholar, Class of 2026
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Taliyah Thomas

Critical Language Scholar, Class of 2026