The U.S. Department of State has recognized the University of Washington for producing 41 recipients of the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship during the spring 2025 cycle. The Gilman Scholarship supports U.S. undergraduates with financial need in studying or interning abroad. The UW’s strong showing reflects the University’s commitment to expanding global learning opportunities for all students.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to our Gilman Scholarship recipients, whose achievements have earned them access to these transformative global learning experiences,” said Ahmad Ezzeddine, Vice Provost for Global Affairs. “The Gilman Scholarship reduces barriers for UW students to study, research or intern abroad, providing those with limited financial means the opportunity to gain international perspectives and prepare for success in today’s interconnected world.”
The University of Washington students are among 3,500 recipients of the U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, which supports Pell Grant–eligible undergraduates to study or intern abroad in more than 170 countries. More than 70% of this year’s recipients are from rural areas and small towns, and 55% are first-generation college students. UW students were awarded a total of $131,500 in Gilman Scholarships this cycle.
“These awards enrich our academic community and reflect a strategic investment in developing globally-minded leaders,” said Ezzeddine. “As our students engage with different cultures and tackle complex international challenges, they return not just as enhanced scholars, but as cultural ambassadors who contribute to our local community’s global awareness and our nation’s diplomatic and economic competitiveness on the world stage.”
Three students in the spring UW cohort received the Critical Need Language Award, and one was awarded the Gilman-McCain Scholarship. The Critical Need Language Award supports students studying high-priority languages in countries where those languages are commonly spoken. The Gilman-McCain Scholarship supports child and spousal dependents of active-duty U.S. military personnel.
About the Gilman International Scholarship
Established by the U.S. Congress, the Gilman Scholarship is an initiative of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and is aided in its implementation by the Institute of International Education. The next application cycle will be launched in August 2025. To learn more about the Gilman Scholarship, visit gilmanscholarship.org.
Learn about scholarship opportunities at UW
The Gilman International Scholarship process is supported by the Office of Merit Scholarships, Fellowships and Awards (OMSFA), a UAA program. OMSFA works with faculty, staff and students to identify and support promising students in developing the skills and personal insights necessary to become strong candidates for this and other prestigious awards.
About the Office of Global Affairs
The Office of Global Affairs (OGA) is the University of Washington’s hub for global engagement. OGA advances global teaching, research and learning for faculty, staff and students and works to enhance the University’s global presence and impact with a footprint that spans all over the world.