Studying abroad or taking an international internship is a big financial step for any undergraduate, and it gets harder when you’re also supporting a military household. The Gilman-McCain Scholarship 2026, run by the U.S. Department of State, exists exactly for this. It gives $5,000 to undergraduate children and spouses of serving U.S. military members, with no application fee.
This guide covers who can apply, what degree level and study areas qualify, the full benefits, required documents, and the exact application steps.
Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Gilman-McCain Scholarship 2026 |
| Host Country | USA |
| Host Organisation | U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs |
| Degree Level | Undergraduate |
| Program Type | Study abroad or international internship |
| Program Location | Various regions worldwide (Travel Advisory Level 1 or 2 countries) |
| Program Duration | December 2026 – October 2027 |
| Number of Awards | 100 |
| Application Fee | None |
Who Is This Scholarship For? (Subjects & Study Programs)
This is not limited to one subject. Any undergraduate credit-bearing study abroad or intern-abroad program counts, as long as it happens in a country with a U.S. State Department Travel Advisory of Level 1 or 2.
That means you can use it for:
- Regular undergraduate coursework taken overseas
- Credit-bearing internship programs abroad
- STEM coursework or internships (eligible for a supplemental award)
- Critical-need language study relevant to national security (also eligible for a supplemental award)
If your program fits one of these categories and your institution accepts the credits, you’re on the right track.
Benefits of the Gilman-McCain Scholarship 2026
- $5,000 award per recipient for a study-abroad or intern-abroad program
- Zero application fee — the whole process is free
- Supplemental funding available for STEM coursework, STEM internships, or critical-need language study
- 100 scholarships awarded for the current cycle
- Builds leadership skills and career readiness through international experience
- Strengthens future career paths in public service and global affairs
Eligibility Criteria
You must meet every point below:
- You are a citizen or national of the United States.
- You are an undergraduate student in good academic standing at a U.S. higher education institution.
- You are a dependent — child or spouse — of active or activated U.S. military personnel at the time of application.
- You are a recipient of Title IV federal financial aid, or can show proof you will receive it during your study/internship period.
- You are applying for, or already accepted into, a credit-bearing study or internship program in a Travel Advisory Level 1 or 2 country.
Eligible service branches include: Air Force, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard, Army, Army National Guard, Army Reserve, Coast Guard, Coast Guard Reserve, Marine Corps, Marine Corps Reserve, Navy, Navy Reserve, Space Force, NOAA Commissioned Corps, and USPHS Commissioned Corps.
Point 4 is where applicants often stumble — if you haven’t confirmed your financial aid package yet, check with your financial aid office before you submit.
How to Apply for the Gilman-McCain Scholarship
- Create a new account on the application portal.
- Enter the temporary PIN sent to your email.
- Set your password.
- Click Start New Application.
- Answer the eligibility questions.
- Complete the advisor selection section.
- Enter your personal information and current institution details.
- Upload the required documents.
- Provide your academic history.
- Fill in your abroad program information.
- Add details of any prior international experience.
- Answer the short essay questions.
- Answer the financial aid questions.
- Provide any additional information requested.
- Read the consent section carefully and give your consent.
- Review your full application, then submit.
Documents Required
- Transcripts from your current and previously attended institutions
- Advisor certification
- Passport or proof of citizenship
Program Deadline
1 October 2026 — mark it early, since documents like advisor certification can take time to arrange.
Related Scholarships for U.S. Students
- Fulbright Foreign Student Program 2026/27 (Fully Funded USA Scholarship)
- Top 7 College Scholarships in the USA Every Student Should Apply For
- MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship in Canada and USA (Up to $8,000)
- How to Secure a Scholarship to Study in the USA
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an application fee?
No. The Gilman-McCain Scholarship is completely free to apply for.
Who counts as a military dependent here?
A child or spouse of active or activated U.S. military personnel, across all listed service branches.
Can I use this for an internship instead of coursework?
Yes. Credit-bearing intern-abroad programs qualify, along with study-abroad coursework.
Is extra funding available for STEM or language study?
Yes. Supplemental awards exist for STEM coursework, STEM internships, and critical-need language study.
What is the award amount?
$5,000 per recipient, with 100 awards available this cycle.
Final Words
The Gilman-McCain Scholarship 2026 is a rare fee-free route for military dependents to study or intern abroad without shouldering the cost alone. Confirm your Title IV aid status, pick a program in an eligible country, and apply well before the 1 October 2026 deadline.
