CIEE Expands Fellowship Programs to Boost Study Abroad Access for Underserved Students
Event summary
- CIEE awards $13 million annually in grants and scholarships to support study and intern abroad opportunities.
- Three new fellowship programs launched for the 2027 academic year, targeting first-generation and Pell-eligible students.
- Douglass O'Connell Global Internship Program in Ireland offers 13 fully funded internships, applications close January 8, 2027.
- Scan Design Foundation Environmental Sustainability Internship in Copenhagen supports 12 students, applications close November 20, 2026.
- Knowledge Without Borders: Democracy and Memory Fellowship provides $10,000 each to four students for programs in Berlin, applications close November 1, 2026.
The big picture
CIEE's expansion of fellowship programs aligns with broader trends in higher education to increase accessibility and global competency among students. By targeting first-generation and Pell-eligible students, CIEE addresses systemic barriers in study abroad opportunities. The strategic partnerships with organizations like the Scan Design Foundation and AAIDN underscore the growing emphasis on cultural exchange and sustainability in international education.
What we're watching
- Program Scaling
- Whether CIEE can sustain the growth of its fellowship programs while maintaining quality and impact.
- Funding Sustainability
- How CIEE will secure ongoing funding for these programs, given the reliance on external partners and donors.
- Student Outcomes
- The long-term career and educational benefits for participants, and how these will be measured and communicated.