Student Travel Scholarships for Global Teen Programs

Student Travel Scholarships for Global Teen Programs

Need based financial aid, scholarships, and grants

Rustic Pathways believes in the power of global education and is committed to making our transformative travel programs accessible to all students. Since 2013, Rustic Pathways has committed $3,6 million in scholarships and financial aid to students around the world.

We offer a range of scholarships, from middle school travel support to gap year and undergraduate financial aid, designed to help students pursue life-changing educational experiences abroad.

Global Perspectives Scholarship

The Rustic Pathways Global Perspectives Scholarship is a $1,000 scholarship offered by Rustic Pathways to high school and college students attending an accredited college or university in the upcoming fall.

The Global Perspectives Scholarship prompts students to reflect on meaningful experiences and identify a global impact project to earn financial scholarships.

To apply for our merit-based scholarships, submit an essay based on the Global Perspectives Scholarship prompt.

Rustic Pathways has committed $3,6 million in scholarships and financial aid to students around the world since 2013.

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Teacher Appreciation Program

Rustic Pathways offers a 15% off special rate to teachers for students enrolled on eligible summer programs through our Teacher Appreciation Program.

Teachers contribute to the development of our future leaders, and we want to thank you for the work you do. We hope to see your child this summer.

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High School Summer Travel Service Scholarship and Financial Aid

Rustic Pathways Service Scholarship enables students enrolled in a Rustic Pathways study abroad program to cover part or all of the program fees. Scholarship opportunities are limited and scholarships range in amount.

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Gap Year Financial Aid

Financial Aid for Rustic Pathways Gap Year is awarded to exceptional students who have graduated or fulfilled all graduation requirements and will be at least 17 years old by the time their gap year begins. Available financial aid is based on both merit and financial need.

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Unless otherwise noted, the scholarships listed below are not affiliated with Rustic Pathways. We list these as a resource for middle school, high school, undergraduate and graduate students.

Scholarships for Middle School Students

Scholarship Amount Deadline
DoSomething Easy Scholarships
Monthly/rolling “easy scholarships” for ages 13–25 tied to volunteer actions.
Varies (often around $2,000–$2,500)
Varies (monthly/rolling)
L. Ron Hubbard Writers of the Future (Writers)
Quarterly contest for original science fiction & fantasy short stories.
$1,000 (1st place each quarter; additional awards vary)
Quarterly: Mar 31, Jun 30, Sep 30, Dec 31 (annual pattern)
Rubincam Youth Award (NGS)
Genealogy essay competition for youth (middle + high school categories).
Up to $250 (category prizes vary)
December 15 (annual)
NSTA Angela Award
NSTA award cycle (deadlines published per annual awards cycle).
$500
TBD for next cycle (last published: Dec 19, 2025)
C-SPAN StudentCam
Video documentary competition (grades 6–12); cash prizes for students and teachers/schools.
$5,000 grand prize; $3,000+ other prizes
January 20, 2026
River of Words
International youth poetry + art contest focused on nature and the environment.
Varies (multiple Grand Prizes by age category)
January 31, 2026
EngineerGirl Writing Contest
Writing contest exploring engineering + technology topics.
Up to $1,000
February 1, 2026
eCYBERMISSION
Team STEM competition (grades 6–9) solving real-world problems.
Up to $10,000 (awards vary by level)
Project submission deadline: March 4, 2026
Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes
Honors outstanding service by young people (U.S./Canada).
$10,000 (per winner; annual)
April 15, 2026
Team America Rocketry Challenge (TARC)
National rocketry challenge; scholarships awarded to top teams.
Varies
TBD
Ayn Rand Institute Essay Contests
Multiple essay contests with different grade eligibility, prize tiers, and deadlines.
Varies (top awards can be $25,000 depending on contest)
TBD
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Young Scholars Program
Academic + college planning support starting in 7th grade (financial support varies).
Varies (program support; not a single cash award)
TBD
The Paradigm Challenge
Global challenge to propose solutions to real-world problems.
Up to $100,000 (overall awards vary by category)
May 1, 2027 (current open window)
Ocean Awareness Contest (Bow Seat)
Creative contest on climate/ocean themes (awards vary by category).
Varies (cash awards; see contest awards/details)
June 8, 2026
Patriot’s Pen (VFW)
Essay contest for grades 6–8 (local-to-national awards).
Up to $5,000 (top award; total awards vary)
October 31, 2026
Voice of Democracy (VFW)
Audio-essay contest (grades 9–12).
Up to $35,000 (top award; total awards vary)
October 31, 2026
Nicholas A. Virgilio Memorial Haiku & Senryu Competition
Haiku/senryu competition (guidelines and dates update annually).
Varies
TBD
Doodle for Google (U.S.)
K–12 art contest; scholarships for finalists + national winner.
$45,000 national winner; $10,000 finalists (per current cycle)
December 10, 2025 (2025–26 cycle; next cycle TBD)
American Legion Oratorical Contest
Speech contest with scholarships at department (state) and national levels.
$20,000–$25,000 (national finalist scholarships; additional awards vary)
Varies by state/department (local timelines differ)
AMVETS National Americanism Program
Patriotic flag/poster/essay contests; deadlines can vary locally.
Varies
July 1, 2026
New York Times Student Contest Calendar (access-limited)
NYT contest calendar exists, but NYT pages are blocked from automated access in this environment.
Varies by contest
Varies throughout the school year
Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
Regional and national awards for art and writing; deadlines depend on region/affiliate.
Varies (scholarship opportunities vary by level)
Varies by region (2026 season spans late 2025 to early 2026)
3M Young Scientist Challenge
National STEM video challenge for grades 5–8.
$25,000 grand prize (plus additional awards)
April 30, 2026
Courage in Student Journalism Award (KSPA)
Recognizes courageous student journalism (recognition award; not primarily a cash scholarship).
Recognition (no cash amount listed)
March 13, 2026
Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge
Premier STEM research competition for grades 6–8 (via Society-affiliated fairs).
Varies (national-level awards; see official application portal)
June 10, 2026

Tips for middle school students & their parents:

Plan Early for College:

This proactive approach sets a solid foundation for your or your child’s college education. Remember, there are various ways to prepare for college besides scholarships. Financial assistance, federal Pell grant funding, and grant programs open their applications early.

Start Saving Early:

Consider opening a 529 plan to save for college, travel and living expenses. Starting early allows your earnings to compound over time, providing a financial cushion for university students. The US federal government has a slew of programs for students with demonstrated financial need. But, funding opportunities do run out, so move quickly.

Explore Educational Opportunities Beyond the Classroom:

Education extends beyond the academic year. Investigate educational summer semester programs that can enhance your child’s learning and prepare them for high school. Some programs cater to middle school students and offer valuable experiences. Participating in travel abroad programs not only enrich learning but also aid in transition to high school.

Frequently asked questions about middle school scholarships

Are there any scholarships for middle school students?

There are at 29 scholarships for middle school students. The majority of scholarships are for high school and college seniors, community college students, college students, and graduate students.

What is the youngest age you can qualify for scholarships?

There is no age limit for applicable scholarships.

Why should I apply to scholarships in middle school?

It’s important to get a head start on the college funding process. Earning some scholarships will beget earning others.

Are there scholarships for international students?

Yes.

Scholarships for High School Students and Undergraduate Students

 

Scholarship Amount Deadline
Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Competition
Awarded based on scholarship, leadership, and financial need.
Up to $50,000
November 12, 2025 (for the 2026 contest)
Dell Scholars Program
Recognizes academic potential and determination in highly motivated, low-income scholars.
Up to $20,000
February 15, 2026
American Legion National High School Oratorical Scholarship
Offers financial help for students in grades 9–12 who participate in the American Legion Oratorical Contest.
Up to $25,000
Varies by state/department; 2026 national certification deadline: April 6, 2026
Rubincam Youth Award
Open to middle and high school students for a narrative essay on their genealogy.
Up to $500
December 15, 2026 (annual)
Rotary International Scholarships
Provides scholarships for students pursuing studies abroad, including Rotary Foundation and district programs.
Varies
Varies by club/district (check local Rotary program deadlines)
GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program
Awards students who demonstrate leadership, drive, integrity, and citizenship.
Up to $40,000 (renewable)
January 3, 2026
Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund (APIASF)
Supports Asian American and Pacific Islander students through scholarships for college and career pathways.
Up to $20,000
January 15, 2026
McDonald’s HACER National Scholarship Program
Scholarships for high school seniors with at least one parent of Hispanic/Latino heritage.
Up to $100,000
February 6, 2026
National Geographic Slingshot
Global challenge for youth to create solutions to the world’s biggest issues.
Up to $10,000
February 6, 2026
McConnell Scholarship
Provides scholarships for Kentucky high school seniors attending the University of Kentucky.
Full scholarship (value varies)
February 9, 2026 (annual)
QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship
Connects high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds with top colleges and full four-year scholarships.
Full four-year scholarship
September 30, 2026
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program
Scholarships for high-achieving high school seniors with financial need who plan to attend a four-year college.
Up to $55,000 per year
2026 TBD
BigFuture Scholarships (College Board)
Scholarships for students completing college planning steps via the College Board program.
Up to $40,000
Monthly drawings; deadlines vary by step/program year
Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship
Awards exceptional high school seniors for leadership, service, and academic achievement.
$20,000
September 30, 2026 (5:00 p.m. ET)
The Gates Scholarship
Highly selective scholarship for outstanding minority high school seniors from low-income households.
Full cost of attendance
September 15 (annual; check the site for the current cycle’s posted year)
Voice of Democracy Scholarship Competition
Audio-essay scholarship contest for high school students sponsored by the VFW.
Up to $35,000
October 31, 2026 (midnight; to local VFW Post)
Scholarship America Dream Award
Supports students who have demonstrated perseverance in overcoming significant obstacles to pursue higher education.
Up to $15,000
2026 TBD
Point Foundation Flagship Scholarship
Scholarships for LGBTQ+ students demonstrating leadership and academic excellence.
Varies
November 20, 2026 (5:00 p.m. PT)
USAC Study Abroad Scholarships
Scholarships for students participating in USAC study abroad programs; deadlines vary by term and program.
Varies
Varies by term/program (see USAC scholarship deadlines)
You Deserve It Scholarship (ScholarshipOwl)
Monthly scholarship drawing (no-essay style; platform rules apply).
$1,000
Rolling (monthly drawings)
Ayn Rand Institute Essay Contests
Essay contests based on Ayn Rand novels; eligibility and deadlines vary by contest.
Up to $25,000
Next deadline: TBD (posted on the contest page)
Global Perspectives Scholarship
Scholarship for students demonstrating a global mindset and interest in international education.
$1,000
Not announced for 2026 (latest posted deadline was August 27, 2025)

Scholarships for Undergraduate Students

Scholarship Amount Deadline
Golden Key International Honor Society Scholarships
Offers multiple scholarships to eligible members; award amounts and deadlines vary by scholarship.
Varies (multiple scholarships)
Varies by scholarship (see scholarship portal)
Diverse International Women of Color (DIWC) Scholarship
Assists women of color who are exceptional in their studies and need financial support to study abroad.
$500
Varies by cycle (DIWC posts term-based deadlines; check the DIWC page for current dates)
Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship
Provides academic support plus a 10-week paid internship at a NOAA facility for students in NOAA mission-related fields.
$9,500 per year (up to 2 years)
January 31, 2026
Gilman-McCain Scholarship
Study abroad scholarships for children of active duty, reserve, or retired U.S. military members.
Up to $5,000
March 5, 2026 (Spring); October 2, 2026 (Fall)
The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) Scholarships
Provides scholarships for eligible students based on academic achievement and community involvement; awards vary by scholarship.
$2,500 to $12,000 (varies by scholarship)
March 1, 2026
HI USA Explore America Travel Scholarship
Supports educational and community-focused travel within the U.S. through HI USA’s Explore America scholarship program.
$1,500
February 16, 2026
Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program
Supports undergraduates with financial need to study or intern abroad; additional awards may be available depending on eligibility.
Up to $5,000 (plus possible add-on awards)
March 5, 2026 (Spring); October 2, 2026 (Fall)
The Going Abroad Scholarship
Scholarship for students planning to study abroad, offered through Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). Dates can change year to year.
$1,500
Varies
The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi Study Abroad Grants
Study abroad grants for eligible members pursuing academic experiences abroad.
$1,000
March 15, 2026
Native Forward Scholars Fund
Scholarships and related support for Native students; opportunities and cycles vary.
Varies
June 1, 2026
American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) Scholarships
Scholarships for Indigenous students pursuing STEM degrees; awards vary by scholarship.
Varies
April 30, 2026 (annual close date)
American Association of Teachers of German (AATG) Study Abroad Scholarship
Scholarship support for undergraduate German study abroad; AATG posts cycle-based deadlines.
Varies (see AATG scholarship details)
February 1, 2026 (Spring/Summer); July 1, 2026 (Fall/Winter)
Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship & Excellence in Education Program
Scholarship for undergraduates pursuing research careers in STEM fields.
Up to $7,500 per year
January 30, 2026
Bridging Scholarships for Study Abroad in Japan
Scholarships for U.S. undergraduate students to study abroad in Japan for a semester or academic year.
$2,500 (semester) / $4,000 (academic year)
April 9, 2026 (Fall 2026); October 9, 2026 (Spring 2027)
Boren Awards (Boren Scholarships)
Funding for U.S. students to study less commonly taught languages in regions critical to U.S. interests.
Up to $25,000 (academic year)
January 28, 2026
Critical Language Scholarship (CLS)
Fully funded overseas language and cultural immersion programs for U.S. students.
Fully funded (covers major program costs)
Varies annually
DAAD Study Scholarships
Scholarships supporting study and research in Germany; deadlines and award amounts vary by program.
Varies
Varies by program
David L. Boren Scholarship
Scholarship for U.S. undergraduates to study abroad in regions critical to U.S. interests.
Up to $25,000 (academic year)
January 28, 2026
Diversity Abroad Scholarship
Scholarships supporting underrepresented students pursuing study abroad opportunities; offerings vary.
Varies
Varies by offering
Fund for Education Abroad (FEA)
Scholarships for U.S. undergraduates with financial need to study abroad.
Up to $5,000 (many awards; amounts vary)
February 4, 2026 at 12:00 PM (noon) ET (Summer/Fall 2026 & AY 2026–2027)
Freeman-ASIA Scholarship
Scholarships for U.S. undergraduates to study abroad in East or Southeast Asia.
Up to $7,000 (term-based; see award details)
Varies by term (AY 2026–2027 cycle opens February 2026)
Fulbright U.S. Student Program
Grants for research, study, and teaching abroad; campus processes and deadlines vary widely.
Varies by country and grant type
Varies annually
German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
Scholarships and funding for study/research in Germany; deadlines vary by program.
Varies
Varies by program
Institute of International Education (IIE) Scholarships
IIE runs multiple scholarship and grant programs supporting international education; deadlines vary by program.
Varies
Varies by program
ISA (International Studies Abroad) Scholarships
Scholarships for students studying abroad through ISA/WorldStrides; deadlines vary by term and program.
Varies
Varies by term/program
The Institute for International Public Policy (IIPP)
Fellowships and support for students pursuing international affairs pathways; deadlines vary by cohort.
Varies
Varies by cohort
International Education Financial Aid (IEFA) Scholarships
Directory of scholarships for international education; deadlines vary by listing.
Varies
Varies by listing
IEE (Institute for Educational Exchange) Scholarships
Scholarships and grants for study abroad through IEE; deadlines vary by offering.
Varies
Varies by offering
North American Language and Culture Assistants (NALCAP)
Program placement and stipend support for language and culture assistants; annual deadlines vary by cycle.
Varies (stipend-based program)
Varies annually (typically spring; confirm each cycle)
Open Doors (IIE)
Study abroad access and funding resources vary widely; confirm any “Open Doors” named scholarship with the sponsoring organization.
Varies

Scholarships for Graduate Students

 

Scholarship Amount Deadline
Beinecke Scholarship Program
$35,000 total ($5,000 pre-grad + $30,000 during grad)
Varies (campus nomination required; your school sets an internal deadline)
Boren Awards (Scholarships & Fellowships)
Funding for language study and research in regions critical to U.S. national security (undergraduate scholarships + graduate fellowships).
Up to $25,000 (amount varies by program length/type)
January 21, 2026 (Fellowships) / January 28, 2026 (Scholarships)
Citizens & Scholars Fellowships
Varies (by program)
Varies (see individual fellowship pages)
Churchill Scholarship
Varies (typically covers tuition/fees + stipend + travel)
November 2, 2026 (nomination deadline; campus deadlines vary)
Davies-Jackson Scholarship
Varies (college-based award)
Varies
Fulbright U.S. Student Program
Varies (by country/award type; typically includes stipend and other benefits)
2027–2028 cycle opens Spring 2026; national deadline typically in October (exact date posted after cycle opens)
George J. Mitchell Scholarship Program
Program paused (no current application cycle)
Paused (no 2026 deadline)
Golden Key International Honour Society Scholarships
Varies (by scholarship)
Varies (see scholarship listings in the portal)
Graduate Fellowships for STEM Diversity
$20,000 annual award
January 15, 2026
Harry S. Truman Scholarship
Up to $30,000 (graduate/professional school)
February 3, 2026 (foundation nomination deadline; campus deadlines are earlier)
Hertz Foundation Graduate Fellowship Award
Varies (stipend + tuition support; depends on fellowship option)
October 31, 2025 (for the 2026 fellowship cycle)
Hostelling International USA (HI USA) Travel Scholarships
Example: Explore America Scholarship includes a $1,500 travel stipend (programs vary)
February 16, 2026 (Explore America Scholarship application close)
James Madison Graduate Fellowships
$24,000 maximum (prorated; max $12,000 per academic year)
March 2, 2026
Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Full funding for graduate study at Stanford University, supporting scholars across Stanford University to tackle tough challenges.
Full funding (tuition + stipend; program-specific benefits)
October 8, 2025 (for 2026 cohort)
Luce Scholars Program
Varies (stipend + Asia placement support; program benefits vary)
September 15, 2025 (for the next posted cycle on the program page)
Marshall Scholarships
Varies (covers university fees + living expenses; terms vary)
2026 cycle closed; 2027 applications open late Spring 2026 (deadline posted when cycle opens)
NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP)
$37,000 annual stipend + $16,000 cost-of-education allowance (per fellowship year)
Varies by discipline (NSF posts discipline-specific October deadlines in the annual solicitation)
Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans
Up to $90,000 (support toward graduate study)
October 30, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET (for the 2026 Fellowship)
Rhodes Scholarship (United States)
Varies (tuition/fees + stipend + other benefits; depends on Oxford costs)
October 1, 2025 at 23:59 (U.S. Eastern Time)
Rotary Foundation Scholarships
Varies (Rotary scholarships include multiple programs with different benefits)
Varies (Rotary posts program-specific deadlines; some programs open in early-year cycles)
Spencer Education Fellowship
$90,000 (one-year fellowship)
February 3, 2026
The Fulbright Program
Varies (programs include student, scholar, specialist, and others)
Varies by program
The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi
Varies (by award)
June 1, 2026 (application window ends; campus deadlines may be earlier)

Fundraising

Fundraising is a key part of making any Rustic Pathways experience happen. Check out our Fundraising Guide and create your own fundraising page!