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On August 4, 2026, American Public University System combined with Rasmussen University and Hondros College of Nursing to form a single higher education institution. American Public University System (the System) now includes American Public University, American Military University, Rasmussen University, and Hondros College of Nursing. The System is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Public Education, Inc. (APEI). We are continuing to update our website to reflect our new structure.

 

What Is the Boren Award?

The Boren Fellowship and Scholarship programs fund overseas language study and research for U.S. students interested in national security careers. In exchange for funding, recipients commit to at least one year of employment with a federal agency after graduation.

Boren is administered by the National Security Education Program (NSEP) and is open to both undergraduate students (Scholarship) and graduate students (Fellowship).

Boren Scholarship

Boren Fellowship
For undergraduate studentsFor graduate students
Award: $8,000-$20,000Award: up to $30,000
Max $10,000 per semesterUp to $24,000 for overseas study
3-year service window2-year service window

Basic Eligibility

To be eligible, you must:

  • Be a U.S. citizen at the time of application.
  • Be enrolled (or applying) to a degree program at an accredited U.S. institution.
  • Propose study in a country outside of Western Europe, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.
  • Include formal foreign language study as a core part of your program.
  • Be a graduate student (Fellowship) or undergraduate student (Scholarship)

There are unique eligibility criteria for each opportunity. Interested applicants should review Boren’s eligibility criteria.

 

What You’ll Do Abroad

Your Boren-funded program must include at least 15–20 hours per week of formal language instruction. Programs range from 12 weeks to 12 months for Fellows, and up to a full academic year for Scholars.

Preference is given to applicants proposing at least a full academic year (defined by Boren as at least six months of in-program study). Fellows may also use Boren funds for domestic language training immediately before or after their time abroad.

No study abroad office? No problem.
The University does not have a study abroad office, but you can still apply. Visit Boren’s website to explore eligible programs or email Campus Representatives at researchandacademicexcellence@apus.edu for guidance.

The Federal Service Commitment

All Boren recipients must work for a qualifying federal agency for at least one year after graduation. Priority agencies include:

  • Department of Defense.
  • Department of State.
  • Department of Homeland Security.
  • Intelligence Community agencies (CIA, NSA, DIA, and others)

NSEP provides job search support to help you fulfill this requirement, including exclusive job listings, resume reviews, career fairs, and access to a federal hiring seminar in Washington, D.C.

 

Veterans

Veterans receive selection preference when other factors are equal and are strongly encouraged to apply.

Ready to Apply?

The University's Research and Academic Excellence team supports Boren applicants through every stage of the process!

Reach out to your Boren Campus Representatives for one-on-one support with your application, essay feedback, resume review, and help submitting your materials before the deadline.

Contact Boren Campus Representatives

 

Your Boren Campus Representative can help you

  • Understand the current application and deadlines.
  • Get feedback on your essays and study plan.
  • Review your resume and federal career plan.
  • Submit materials for internal review before the deadline.

Learn More

Visit the official Boren website for full program details and to start your application: