2022 BPIA Scholarships for Study Abroad and Internships

For undergraduate and graduate degree students participating in international education projects and programs taking place during the Spring and Summer [2023] semesters, Black Professionals in International Affairs(“BPIA”) will award eight (8) $1000 scholarships and four (4) $500 scholarships for a total of $10,000 dollars. The scholarships will be paid directly to the students and may be applied to costs incurred for attendance, international travel, local transportation, professional fees, lodging or per diem for the duration of the program. 

Application – Deadline extended November 6, 2022; award(s) announcement November 21, 2022.  

Eligibility Guidelines

BPIA awards scholarships to individual students for international education programs/projects in the US and abroad.  Individuals can currently request funds for the following categories:

• Travel and study abroad programs sponsored by colleges and universities

• Unpaidinternship programs that provide opportunities for students to gain an inside perspective and exposure to the variety of roles (positions) and responsibilities available in international affairs careers

• Work/study programs with organizations actively engaged in international affairs 

Individual applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Student member of BPIA 

• Be enrolled full-time in a 2- or 4-year undergraduate or graduate academic program at a [U.S. college or university] at time of application 

• Must be in good academic standing with regard to their educational institutions, meaning that the student is on track to complete all requirements necessary to graduate or advance within their degree programs [and have maintained a cumulative grade point average of [_3.0_] or better (or the equivalent thereof based on their schools’ grading system)]

• Demonstrate financial need (institutional financial aid statement)

• Proof of US citizenship [green card, or valid international student visa]

• Complete and submit the BPIA Scholarship Applicant Attestation form

• Commit to submission of a final report for publication in the BPIA newsletter (500 words) and/or provide a video of the student’s international experience

BPIA scholarship selection process:

All applicants who meet the eligibility requirements of the BPIA scholarship award will be evaluated by the selection committee on an objective and non-discriminatory basis. The selection committee will select the scholarship recipients based on the availability of scholarships and the overall strength of the applications received, giving weight to such factors as academic achievement, community service, leadership potential, financial need, and situational hardship.

Application guidelines:  Deadline [October 30, 2022]

Reply to each of the items listed below.  Type the application using 12-font on 8.5” x 11” paper. Attach scanned copies of requested documents.  Save document and include your name as the file subject. Submit the application in a single attached PDF document to bpiascholarships@iabpia.org 

Students

1. Applicant’s full name, address, telephone, email, and website (if available)

2. Resume (max. 2 pages, indicate citizenship, BPIA member, intern, education, service, etc.)

3. Statement of interest, goals and expected accomplishments. Amount requested. (max 500 words)

4. Program/Project description condensed and copied from the host organization website

5. Letter of acceptance to study abroad or internship program, including invoice or costs incurred

6. Unofficial transcript

7. One confidential recommendation from a faculty member or mentor (submit directly to bpiascholarships@iabpia.org) 

8. Print this statement and sign (original signature)-click here

THINGS TO CONSIDER PRIOR TO BEGINNING YOUR STUDY ABROAD/INTERNSHIP PROGRAM:

1. Travel insurance coverage for the duration of the program (insurance may be procured through the academic institution, parents, the program, or a separate travel policy)

2. Travel advisories issued by the U.S. Department of State for the intended study abroad/internship country or area.

3. Enrollment in the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

4. Anticipated costs, budgeting and financing. The BPIA scholarship will not cover the full costs and expenses required to participate in an international study abroad or internship program. Students should diligently seek out additional funding sources for any anticipated financial shortfall.

5. Research destination’s local customs, culture and people. By knowing even briefly your soon-to-be home's culture, history, geography, economy, government -- your study abroad experience will be enriched and your time spent more meaningful.