Frequently Asked Questions

I am currently a green card holder and anticipate being naturalized before the summer program begins. Am I still eligible?

No. Naturalized citizens are eligible for the CLS Program, but must be naturalized by the date of the application deadline in November.

I have dual citizenship with the host country. Can I participate in the CLS Program?

CLS participants must enter the host country on a U.S. passport. Failure to secure a valid U.S. passport by the indicated deadline may result in not being able to participate in the program.

Applicants who hold dual citizenship are required to enter the host country on a U.S. passport. In most cases it is not possible for individuals with dual citizenship to participate in the country of their other nationality due to host country laws or policies requiring citizens to enter the country using the passport issued by that country alone. In some cases, this may also apply to participants whose parents hold citizenship in the host country, regardless of whether the individual has formally claimed citizenship or not. Applicants are responsible for determining their citizenship status and understanding any host country entry requirements before accepting a CLS award.

How do I know if I might have citizenship ties with the host country?

Countries have different policies regarding citizenship eligibility. You may be considered a citizen of the host country if you:

• Have been issued a passport of the host country at any time in the past;
• Were born in the host country;
• Were adopted from the host country; and/or
• Have parent(s) or grandparent(s) who ever held citizenship of the host country.

If any of these apply, contact the host country’s embassy or consulate in the U.S. to clarify your status.

Note: Some CLS languages are taught in multiple countries, and host locations may change without prior notice. If citizenship status may affect your eligibility, indicate this in your application. While alternate placements may be possible for some languages, they are not guaranteed.

I have an affiliation with the U.S. military. Is there anything I should do?

The CLS Program welcomes participation by those affiliated with the U.S. armed services. All other factors being equal, the CLS Program gives preference to veterans of the U.S. armed services during the selection process.

Applicants with U.S. military affiliations may be subject to requirements and restrictions placed on their participation by their military command, including the following:

• Passports: May be required to travel on a military-issued or official passport, rather than a standard passport
• Visas: May be required to travel on a visa different from that required of other participants
• Military waiver and clearance: May be required to go through a waiver and clearance process to receive official permission to travel to the host country
• Travel Prohibition: May be prohibited from traveling to a specific host country or region within a host country
• Stipend: May be prohibited from accepting a stipend

It is important that every applicant with a military affiliation, including all U.S. Department of Defense military and civilian personnel, service academy cadets, service members of active and reserve components, as well as inactive service members, including members of the Individual Ready Reserves (IRR), understand that they may be subject to additional requirements and restrictions on their participation in the CLS Program. Such requirements or restrictions related to a participant's military affiliation are outside of the control of the CLS Program, American Councils, and the U.S. Department of State, and are the purview of the U.S. Department of Defense and the participant's military command.

All applicants with a military affiliation should research the specific restrictions that may impact their ability to participate in the CLS Program. Applicants should speak with their commanding officer about their intention to apply to and participate in the CLS Program as early as possible. Applicants should also speak with their commanding officers about travel requirements detailed in the electronic Foreign Clearance Guide (FCG) at https://www.fcg.pentagon.mil/fcg.cfm. The FCG is only available to U.S. Government employees and members of the military; CLS Program staff are not able to answer specific questions about the requirements in the FCG. All questions regarding the FCG and its requirements should be directed to the applicant’s security officer.

Finalists who do not follow these requirements may jeopardize their participation in the CLS Program.

I am completing my final year at a community college/undergraduate/graduate institution before the start of the CLS Program. Am I still eligible?

Yes, if you are enrolled in a degree-seeking program at the time of your application you are eligible to apply. This includes graduating seniors, as well as students completing the final year of their community college or graduate program.

I am not currently enrolled in a degree program but will be starting a graduate degree in the spring. Am I eligible to apply?

No, you must be enrolled in a degree program at the time of the application.

I am enrolled in classes toward a certificate program or other non-degree program. Am I eligible to apply?

No, you must be taking classes toward an undergraduate (associate, bachelor's), graduate (master's, doctoral), or professional degree in order to be eligible for the program. Classes being taken toward non-degree programs do not count towards enrollment for eligibility purposes.

I am a U.S. citizen enrolled in a degree program overseas. Am I eligible to apply?

Applicants must be enrolled at an accredited U.S. institution. Students earning degrees at foreign institutions outside the U.S. or its territories are not eligible, even if accredited by a U.S. agency.

If you are unsure if your institution is eligible, please email cls@americancouncils.org.

I had to withdraw from my home institution in the U.S. in order to pursue a co-operative or internship program in the U.S. or abroad. Am I still eligible?

Yes, students who have withdrawn from their home institutions to pursue a co-operative or internship experience may apply. Applicants who are not taking classes at or through their home institution in the fall term must submit a CLS Enrollment Confirmation form completed by their home registrar in the U.S. Applicants must also submit a signed letter from the program provider explaining the opportunity and confirming their participation.

American Councils will provide the CLS Enrollment Confirmation form and further instructions to applicants selected as semi-finalists. If selected as a finalist, American Councils may ask the finalist to submit updated documentation from the program provider confirming their successful completion of the program.

I had to withdraw from my home institution in the U.S. for a semester due to a temporary medical condition. Am I still eligible?

No, if you withdraw or take a leave of absence from your program for the fall semester for a personal reason, other than to participate in a study abroad program, national scholarship or fellowship program, or substantive co-operative or internship program, then you are not eligible to apply.

I am studying abroad this semester, next semester, or for the entire academic year. Am I still eligible for the Critical Language Scholarship?

If you are still enrolled as a degree-seeking student at or through your home institution, you are eligible for the CLS Program. If you have taken a leave of absence in order to participate in your study abroad program but intend to re-enroll, then you may apply. If you are not taking classes at or through your home institution in the fall term, you must submit a CLS Enrollment Confirmation form completed by your home registrar in the U.S. You must also submit a signed letter from the program provider explaining the opportunity and confirming your participation.

American Councils will provide the CLS Enrollment Confirmation form and further instructions to applicants selected as semi-finalists. If selected as a finalist, American Councils may ask you to submit updated documentation from the program provider confirming your successful completion of the program.

I am a high school student, but I am earning college credits through dual enrollment. Am I eligible for the CLS Program?

The CLS Program requires that all applicants be enrolled in a degree-granting program at an accredited U.S.-based university at the time of application. Many dual enrollment programs are not degree-granting.

In addition, CLS participants must be 18 years old by May 15, 2026, and must have completed a full year (two semesters or three quarters) of college by the start of the program.

I am currently enrolled at a college or university, but I am not taking any classes. Am I eligible to apply for the program?

Eligibility in this situation can vary. Some students who are not taking classes may still be considered enrolled (for example, doctoral candidates in dissertation status), while others may not meet the requirement unless they are participating in an allowable alternative such as a study abroad program or a substantive internship.

Because of this, we encourage you to confirm your enrollment status with your registrar and email cls@americancouncils.org with as much detail as possible to determine the likelihood of your eligibility. Ultimately, eligibility will be formally reviewed in January, and you will need to demonstrate your status at the time of application through an official transcript or registrar’s statement if selected as a finalist.

I participated in a previous CLS institute. Provided that I meet the other eligibility requirements, can I apply again?

Applicants who have successfully completed the program (regardless of the number of times) are eligible to apply and participate again, but are not given preference in selection. Past participants must make a clear case for why participating in another summer institute is important to their goals and language development, and should demonstrate the steps they have taken to maintain the language skills they gained from the previous CLS Program. If you are applying to study a language other than the language you previously studied with the CLS Program, you will need to make a clear case for how you are continuing to study or use your first CLS language. In addition, you should specify how you will use both your first CLS language and the new language.

What is the minimum GPA for the Critical Language Scholarship?

There is no minimum required GPA for the CLS Program. Your application will be evaluated holistically based on the selection criteria, which include your commitment to language learning, potential to contribute to as a citizen diplomat, and the connection between your language and your academic and professional goals. The application will not specifically ask for your GPA, but evaluators may see it when reviewing your transcript. Academic performance is considered as part of your overall profile, but a lower GPA does not automatically disqualify you. We encourage all eligible applicants to apply, regardless of GPA.

Do I need to submit official transcripts, or are unofficial transcripts acceptable?

For the CLS application, you are only required to upload an unofficial transcript. If you are a first-year student in college or university and do not yet have first-term grades, you may submit an unofficial transcript to show your courses in progress. If you are unable to upload a current transcript, you may list all your coursework and grades in the fields provided.

Accepted finalists will be required to submit copies of their official transcripts after selection. Official transcripts will be used to verify the information provided in the application and confirm eligibility. Applicants attending campuses located outside the United States must have an official transcript or diploma from the U.S.-based counterpart to their foreign campus.

I transferred from a community college, was dual enrolled with a college or university during high school, or took summer courses at another institution. Do I need to provide transcripts from these previous institutions?

If the credits transferred to your current institution (and already appear on your transcript there), you do not need to provide transcripts from other institutions as part of the application. If you are selected as a finalist, we will ask you to provide an official transcript from your present institution.

I am currently studying abroad (or have in the past). Do I need to submit the unofficial transcripts from my U.S.-based institution as well as my study abroad institution? If so, how do I do that?

You must submit an unofficial transcript from your U.S. institution, and it should clearly show your enrollment status for the term(s) abroad. If it does not, you should provide an unofficial transcript from both your U.S.-based institution and your study abroad institution (or other formal documentation confirming your enrollment in a study abroad program). You can submit these transcripts by merging them into one PDF.

If you have difficulty with this, please email us at cls@americancouncils.org.

Do I need to submit a letter of recommendation?

You are not asked to submit a letter of recommendation as part of your application.

Do I need to have my application reviewed by a campus representative before I submit it?

No, you are not required to have your application reviewed by a campus representative to apply for the CLS Program. However, the CLS Program urges you to make use of resources available on your campus to strengthen your application.

The CLS Program maintains a list of faculty and staff at colleges and universities across the United States who have volunteered to support students applying for the CLS Program. To see if there is a CLS advisor on your campus, please visit: https://www.clscholarship.org/universities.

Other resources on your campus may include a study abroad advisor, fellowships advisor, language instructor, career advisor, or academic advisor. A campus writing center may also provide helpful feedback on your essays.

May I select a site or country placement, or indicate a preference if I am applying for a language that has more than one program site?

No, site placement for languages where more than one location is offered will be made based on a variety of factors determined by the CLS Program institutes and the U.S. Department of State. The CLS Program is not able to accommodate placement or site change requests before or during the program.

I can't find my university when filling out my application.

There are two common reasons why your institution might not appear during the application process:

1. Search Method

The application includes two boxes:

• A search box where you type your keyword
• A results box where matching institutions will appear
  

To search effectively:

• Type a keyword from your institution’s name (e.g., “Carnegie”) or the city/town where your school is located (e.g., “San Antonio”)
• Avoid abbreviations like “UCLA”
• If your institution’s name includes a commonly abbreviated word, try different variations. For example, if you attend St. John’s College, try searching for: Saint, St, and St.

After entering your keyword, wait a few seconds for the drop-down menu to load. Your institution (or a list of options) should appear in the second box.

2. Institution Eligibility

If you're studying outside the U.S., your institution may not be eligible. Only students enrolled at accredited U.S. institutions are eligible to apply. Institutions located outside the U.S. or its territories are not eligible, even if they are accredited by a U.S. agency.

If you still can’t find your institution or have questions, please email us at cls@americancouncils.org.

Am I obligated to seek employment in the U.S. government following graduation?

The CLS Program does not have a service requirement. However, alumni are expected to continue to use the target language in future academic studies and in their professional careers. Previous CLS recipients have sought and found successful employment not only in government, but also in academia, business, public health, non-profit organizations, law, and other fields.

I do not have a U.S. passport, or my passport is expired. Do I need to get or renew my passport before the application deadline?

You do not need to have a passport to apply for the CLS Program.

CLS host countries have different requirements for passports and visas. Some require passports to be valid three months after departure while others require passports to be valid six months after you return from abroad.

You may need to apply for a new passport if:

• You do not currently have a valid U.S. passport;
• Your passport is not valid through the above dates; or
• Your passport does not have two blank visa/stamp pages. (Note that it is no longer possible to add new pages to U.S. passports. You must apply for a new passport.)

If selected as a finalist, it is your responsibility to ensure you have a passport that is valid according to your host country's requirements. Finalists may be eligible to apply for CLS Passport Assistance to support procurement of a U.S. passport (excluding fees to expedite processing and shipping costs).

All finalists are required to have a valid U.S. passport by March 2026 to participate in the program. Failure to secure a valid passport by this deadline may result in not being issued a visa and therefore not being able to participate in the program.

For more information on securing a passport, please visit http://www.travel.state.gov/.

Is there any financial assistance available to help me procure a passport?

The CLS Program is proud to announce the availability of limited funds to support U.S. passport procurement for students who demonstrate exceptional financial need. The CLS Program will issue a reimbursement of $165 for U.S. passport application fees (excluding fees to expedite processing and shipping costs) for CLS finalists applying for a first-time passport or a passport renewal in order to participate in the CLS Program. Please note that fees to expedite the application process and costs related to shipping or traveling to procure a passport are not reimbursable.

For more information on program eligibility and how to apply, please review the CLS Passport Assistance guidelines.

How are finalists for the CLS Program selected?

Award recipients for the CLS Program are selected on the basis of merit, with consideration for:

• Commitment to language learning;
• Preparation for and alignment with program expectations;
• Contribution to the citizen diplomacy and national impact; and
• Connection between language and academic and professional goals.

All other factors being equal, the CLS Program gives preference to veterans of the United States armed forces. Automatic semifinalist status will be given to alumni of the 2025 CLS Spark virtual initiative who maintain eligibility and apply to continue studying their Spark language.

For information about the selection criteria and timeline, please visit: https://clscholarship.org/applicants/selection.

Is the program limited to students of specific academic disciplines?

No, students enrolled in any field of study are eligible and encouraged to apply. The CLS Program actively seeks applicants in all fields of study and from all degree levels. Applicants must clearly articulate how the language connects to their academic and professional goals.

Can I submit multiple applications in the same application cycle?

No, you may only apply for one language. Applicants who submit multiple applications will be considered ineligible.

How many applications do you usually receive for my target language?

The number of applications submitted for each language varies each year. The CLS Program does not track acceptance rates by language or language level.

What percentage of applicants for beginning, advanced beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels do you admit?

Since the applicant pool varies each year, the percentage of each level represented within a language also varies. There is no set number of participants for each language level.

What language levels are offered?

In order to determine which language level to choose on your application, please review the CLS language levels and terminology:

• Beginning Level: No previous study of the language, or less than one academic year of study or the equivalent.
• Advanced Beginning Level: At least one academic year of target language study or the equivalent.
• Intermediate Level: At least two academic years of target language study or the equivalent.
• Advanced Level: At least three academic years of target language study or the equivalent.

Please note that one year of academic study typically means two semesters of college-level study.

Am I indicating my current level or the level I will be prepared for by the start of the CLS Program?

Select the language level you will be prepared for by the start of the CLS Program. If you are currently taking college-level coursework, apply for the next level you will reach by June 2026. For instance, if you will have completed first year Arabic or the equivalent by June 2026, you should select Advanced Beginning Arabic.

I have studied the target language, but not at the college level. Which level should I apply for?

Applicants will self-report their language level on the application. The application will have space for you to describe your target language experience both in multiple choice and short answer form. We encourage you to reflect on your language proficiency, as a college-level course may cover more material over the course of an academic year than a high school program typically covers.

I'm interested in an institute with a prerequisite, but I have not studied the language in a college or university setting. Am I eligible to apply?

For institutes that require prior study, applicants do not need formal classroom experience with the language but rather must have the language ability that would correspond to that amount of academic study. In the past, students have fulfilled the language requirement in a number of ways beyond traditional college-level classes, including self-study, tutoring, or exposure to the language in a home environment. We encourage you to reflect on your language proficiency, and keep in mind that a college-level course may cover more material over the course of an academic year than a high school program typically covers.

Consider what level is most appropriate for you to choose as part of the CLS application process. As long as you can explain in the application how you will have reached the required level of proficiency by the start of the summer program, you will be eligible.

I grew up speaking the language that I am applying to study with CLS and/or I have family members who speak the language that I am applying to study with CLS. Am I eligible to apply?

Applicants with a family background in the target language are encouraged to apply for the CLS Program. If you have little or no experience speaking, reading, writing, or listening in the language, it is recommended that you apply for the beginning level. If you do have some experience, consider which level most accurately reflects your overall skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

How should I identify my language level?

The CLS Program is not able to personally advise applicants regarding their language level, but these are some general guidelines that may help you select the most appropriate level:

• Ask a professional to assess your skill level: Work with a language teacher at your home institution or a nearby school that offers the target language. Ask them to assess your language level and determine where you would be placed in the target language curriculum at your school. For instance, if the instructor would place you in second year Arabic at your school, you would apply for the Advanced Beginning level of Arabic on the CLS application.

• Compare yourself to learning materials: Review textbooks and related materials used in college-level classrooms for your CLS language to see how much you already know, and where you begin to experience difficulty. By identifying what you do and do not know, you can get an idea of how your proficiency level corresponds to formal study.

• Review proficiency guidelines and can-do statements: CLS students will take an ACTFL Oral Proficiency Interview. ACTFL provides a number of resources that may be helpful in reflecting on your language level. You can find these resources on their website: https://www.actfl.org/educator-resources.

Can I apply to a higher level if I’m a fast learner or want to make more progress?

No. Acceptance into the advanced beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels of any CLS language is based on experience studying the target language, not general linguistic aptitude. You should only apply for the language level for which you will meet the minimum requirements by the beginning of the summer.

If a participant were to be below the minimum level expected in a certain language, they will struggle to keep up with their peers and the curriculum and will not see as much progress because they are not appropriately prepared, which can cause added stress. It is very difficult, if not impossible, to try and keep up with coursework and daily classroom interactions at a level that is too high above current skills. In addition, application reviewers are looking to confirm that applicants meet the prerequisites for the institute they have applied for. Participants make the most language gains when they are studying at the appropriate level.

I am applying for multiple scholarships that may have conflicting dates with the CLS Program. Is there any way I can either begin the program late or leave the program early?

The dates for the CLS Program are very strict. All orientation activities are required, therefore you cannot begin the program late. Under rare circumstances, you may be permitted an exception to leave the program up to three days early for academic reasons (such as to attend classes at your home university), but no earlier. Please talk to your Program Officer if you believe your situation may qualify for an early departure.

Can I accept more than one scholarship or fellowship at the same time?

In most cases you can receive more than one scholarship, but not at the same time. If you have been awarded additional funding for the summer, especially federal funding, it is important to communicate that to all parties and keep in mind that the CLS Program covers the cost of all major aspects of participation for the overseas program, including tuition, travel, housing, and meals.

It may be helpful to note that participants typically can receive a Critical Language Scholarship for the summer and a different scholarship or award for the following fall. However, it’s important to keep in mind that there are exceptions to this, so we ask all CLS finalists to let us know of any other awards received and any mandatory components that may take place over the summer. If you have already accepted another award or scholarship, you should check with your other funder to confirm your ability to accept the CLS award.

Can I participate in two scholarship programs at the same time?

The CLS Program requires your full participation starting with mandatory virtual pre-departure orientations through the conclusion of the intensive summer institutes. It is not possible for CLS participants to leave the CLS Program in order to attend events for other programs.

Note: You cannot accept funding from both a Critical Language Scholarship and a Fulbright Critical Language Enhancement Award during the same calendar year. If you have received a CLEA in the same calendar year as your upcoming CLS Program or have been offered a CLEA following the CLS program, please let your Program Officer know so that they can determine if there is any conflict.

Am I able to accept both a Fulbright award and the CLS award?

Participants are not allowed to accept both a CLS award and a Critical Language Enhancement Award (CLEA), which is an addition to the Fulbright U.S. Student Program, in the same calendar year (January - December).

The CLS Program does not restrict finalists from accepting a Fulbright award (other than a CLEA), provided that there are no conflicting dates, such as for the Fulbright orientation. Requirements for attendance at Fulbright orientation(s) are indicated in the Country Summaries available at: https://us.fulbrightonline.org/countries.

I will not hear back from my other scholarship applications until after the acceptance deadline. May I have an extension?

The deadline to accept or decline the CLS award is firm. If you opt to decline the CLS award after initially accepting it for any reason besides a critical incident (e.g. medical or family emergency), you may be responsible for the repayment of award costs that have been incurred, such as your stipend.

I have a very important wedding/job interview/family event in the U.S. during the summer. Will I be allowed to leave for a few days during the program?

No, you may not leave the program or host country for any reason during the CLS Program unless you are withdrawing from the program. Under rare circumstances, you may be permitted an exception to leave the program up to three days early for academic reasons (such as to attend classes at your home university), but no earlier. Please talk to your Program Officer if you believe your situation may qualify for an early departure.

Will I be able to conduct independent research or hold an internship while I am on the program?

No. Although we realize that many of our students are eager to conduct overseas research or find local internship and volunteer opportunities, the purpose of the CLS Program is intensive language study. All program classes and activities are mandatory, and participants should not expect to have the time to conduct independent research projects. However, many participants find that the language skills they gain while on the program immeasurably improve their ability to make connections in their host community and conduct research after program completion. In addition, please note that any and all research activities must be approved by the CLS Program staff in Washington, D.C. and by the host institution before implementation. Research activities may also violate the terms of your visa.

Will I have time to take an online class with my home institution or complete coursework from a prior semester?

All CLS Program classes and activities are mandatory, and participants who hope to accomplish other work while on the program are often disappointed to find that they do not have the time or energy to devote to other tasks. For some day-to-day context, you will be in class for three hours each day and have additional activities, either with your language partner or as group cultural activities, that will last until anywhere from 2-4pm. You should also expect to have about 2 hours of homework each night, and will need to plan to study for exams, etc. Your host family may not have reliable access to WiFi, and if they do, they may not have unlimited access. WiFi does operate differently in some cases, with certain data limits. Participants will also spend time outside of CLS activities exploring the host city, and spending time with their host families or roommates. You may find that you will miss out on some of those opportunities if you are busy taking another academic course.

Can family or friends visit me during the program?

The CLS Program discourages family members and friends from visiting during the program due to its intensive nature. You will be busy with classes, program activities, excursions, and general engagement with your host community (friends, host families, roommates, etc.)

If you choose to have visitors during the program, keep in mind that you are still required to attend all CLS Program activities, and the program activities schedule may change at the last minute. Visitors/non-CLS awardees may not participate in CLS activities and may not stay in program-arranged housing. You also may not stay in a hotel with your visitors during regular program activities. CLS Program staff cannot provide any assistance to the family, friends, or visitors of CLS participants including but not limited to scheduling travel, securing visas, and navigating health restrictions on travel.

Can I defer my CLS award to next summer?

No, the CLS award cannot be deferred. If you would like to participate in the CLS Program next summer, you will need to apply and be selected again. Declining the CLS award will not impact your ability to submit future applications or participate in future programs.

If I decline the award, does this unfavorably influence future CLS applications?

We understand that students may decline the award for a variety of personal, academic, and professional reasons. Declining the CLS award will not impact your ability to submit future applications or participate in future programs.

How will I be placed in my classes?

In most cases, placement tests and/or an interview with teachers will be conducted prior to the start of classes. The results of this process will facilitate the assignment of students into classes based on level. You will be placed in classes based on your level, but you should also expect some variation in level within your classes, as each CLS student comes from a different language-learning background and programs in the United States vary widely in terms of pacing and the number of class hours offered. It is common for students to be at different levels in their language-learning process. The goal of the CLS Program is to master foreign language concepts, which might mean reviewing some materials you have already covered.

What level of proficiency can I expect to achieve after participating in the program?

The CLS Program is equivalent to approximately one academic year of language study. Language proficiency gains are measured before and after the program through a speaking test known as the Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) administered by testers certified by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).

To learn more about proficiency levels, visit the ACTFL Oral Proficiency Interview page.

To learn more about proficiency testing results for the CLS Program, visit the Impact page on language learning.

Will I receive academic credit for my participation in CLS?

Yes, academic credit is an option for participants who complete the CLS Program. The CLS Program provides two units of academic credit through Bryn Mawr College. Each unit is typically the equivalent of four undergraduate semester hours, but each institution has its own system for determining credits; all participants should plan to check with the registrar at their home institution to determine equivalencies.

While academic credit is available upon successful completion of the CLS Program, it is up to the individual applicant to apply to his or her registrar’s office. Depending on the university’s or college’s requirements, the registrar’s office may or may not request to be informed before the student begins the CLS Program.

My registrar’s office has requested a syllabus or course information before they determine whether I can transfer credit from the CLS Program. Is this information available?

Yes. Please email your Program Officer to receive CLS course information specific to your language. Please note that the exact course numbers and titles cannot be guaranteed until after completion of the CLS Program when course placement has been finalized by your institute. For that reason, we advise students to get more courses approved than what will be taken during the CLS Program. During the CLS Program you should also save course materials provided by your teachers (like syllabi, assignment descriptions, major exams) to show your registrar’s office when you return.

When will I receive my travel information, and how can I change my flight itinerary?

Participants will receive flight information a few weeks before scheduled travel. American Councils staff and travel partners cannot make changes to accommodate individual travel plans. Because airline tickets are purchased as group tickets, you may not be able to change them or you may be required to pay a fee to do so. You are not permitted to make changes to your flight itinerary before you have arrived in your host country and doing so may jeopardize your ability to participate in the CLS Program. If you make arrangements to decline the return group flight, you must notify your Program Officer in advance, and sign a form that outlines the terms of your decision to decline the return flight.

I prefer an alternate program location. Can I request to change my site placement?

Not all CLS languages are offered in multiple sites. Placement depends on a number of factors, and students cannot choose their program site. If you have a concern about your placement, please email your Program Officer with the reason for your concern and any conflict of dates or other pertinent information. A change in site placement is not guaranteed. You will likely need to choose to accept or decline the award based on the original site placement, even if a change in location may become available at a later date.

I will be abroad in the spring before the start of the CLS Program. Will the CLS Program pay for my ticket from my international location to the program site?

The CLS Program can only provide travel for participants located in the United States. If you are abroad in the spring, you will need to arrange your own travel, either back to the U.S., from where the CLS Program will cover and arrange your transportation to the program site, or you may arrange and pay for your own travel directly to the program location. This may not be possible for all locations, so if you are planning on purchasing your own ticket, it is important to discuss your plans with your Program Officer as soon as possible. The cost of that travel is not reimbursable and in some cases it may not be possible to obtain a visa outside of the U.S. or enter the country prior to the date of the group’s arrival, in which case it may not be an option to arrange your own travel.

I think I need a visa for my CLS destination. How do I get one?

Your Program Officer will be in touch this spring with more information about what kind of visa is needed for the CLS Program and how to apply for the visa. Please note that procuring the correct visa for participation in the program is a requirement. You will need to share a scan of the visa in the AIS Forms Portal. Please also note that some locations do not require a visa to participate in the CLS Program.

I have an existing visa for my CLS destination. Can I use this visa?

Please contact your Program Officer. Due to the nature of the CLS Program, CLS participants must abide by the visa recommendations and requirements from in-country CLS host institutions. Therefore, even if you have a valid visa to your CLS country, you may be asked to apply for a different type or length of visa.

Will I be able to travel during the program?

You will have opportunities to participate in organized cultural excursions and activities during the CLS Program. You may also have some limited free time for independent travel within your host country during the program, but this varies from site to site and is not guaranteed. Additional travel restrictions may be placed on students depending on local health policies or other safety and security concerns. You must share information with local program staff prior to any independent travel, and travel cannot interfere with your ability to participate in mandatory program activities. You will not be allowed to leave the host country during the program except in cases of emergency.

I would like to stay in the host country following the program. Is this permitted?

In some cases, participants are able to stay in the host country following the program, but are responsible for making their own travel, housing, and visa arrangements. In cases where this is not allowed, it is because firm visa restrictions require students to leave the country or because the CLS host institution or university has provided support for your visa application and/or visa registration. Participants who are eligible to stay in the host country following the program are required to make any necessary visa arrangements to stay beyond the dates of the CLS Program, including possibly leaving the host country to apply for another visa. ASPE, the medical benefits program provided by the CLS Program, will end the last day of the program regardless of how long you plan to stay in your host country. You are responsible for all medical care including acquiring insurance if you plan to remain in the host country beyond the dates of the CLS Program.

I don’t currently have a U.S. passport, my passport recently expired, or my passport is set to expire soon. What should I do?

First, contact your Program Officer immediately to let them know. Second, visit the State Department Travel website and begin the passport application or renewal process. In some cases, the passport process may need to be expedited in order to ensure that you are able to receive a visa on time.

Do I need certain immunizations in order to participate in CLS?

No, the CLS Program does not require any immunizations as a condition of participating in the program. However, some host countries and locations or host institutions may have immunization requirements (including for COVID-19). Any country or location, including the United States, may change entry or exit requirements and other measures to reduce health risks at any time. Exemptions from an immunization or other requirements on medical or religious grounds in one jurisdiction may not be recognized or granted by host countries/locations or host institutions.

Participants should review the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Travelers' Health website for their CLS Program country or location: http://www.cdc.gov/travel. The website provides a general overview of health considerations by country, as well as information on country-required and CDC-recommended immunizations and disease prevention strategies.

As non-medical professionals, staff of the U.S. Department of State and American Councils cannot provide advice as to what, if any, immunizations are necessary or advisable, or what, if any, other particular medical precautions participants should take prior to traveling to the host country or location. Therefore, we recommend that participants consult with their physician or a licensed health care professional regarding recommended immunizations.

It is the participant's responsibility to ensure that they have had all necessary immunizations to enter the country and/or to fully participate in the program. Immunization for many people is a very personal decision and participants are responsible for researching recommended immunizations for their host country or location to determine which, if any, they may choose to receive. Participants are also responsible for paying for any immunizations or medications. Costs related to immunizations or medications are not covered by the CLS Program and also may not be covered by ASPE benefits, which is offered to all CLS participants.

Immunization requirements or other measures may change prior to departure, upon arrival or at any other time.

Are there any health risks involved?

Traveling abroad involves potentially significant health risks including: personal injury, illness, temporary or permanent disability, or death. Health and safety monitoring, as well as requirements or guidance in the host country or location, may differ from that issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Similarly, medical care abroad may differ in terms of standards and procedures commonly found in the United States.

CLS Program staff are not medical professionals and cannot provide medical advice. Applicants are advised to discuss questions or concerns about participation in the program related to their health with a medical advisor, and to review travel advisories published by the U.S. government, especially:

• The U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for advice regarding health recommendations and precautions for travel to the host country or location.

I am out of the country and cannot find a licensed medical professional to complete the medical review. What should I do?

Please contact your Program Officer. They can discuss with you options used by participants in the past. If you have had a physical recently (within one year of the program start date), you may be able to work with that provider to complete the required forms based on your recent exam. Alternately, if you are able to find a licensed M.D., D.O., physician’s assistant (P.A.) or nurse practitioner (N.P.) in the area where you are travelling/located, who is comfortable completing the forms in English, that may be an option. Your Program Officer can assist you with finding available medical resources necessary to complete your certification, but the final responsibility is yours. In some cases, you may need to travel in order to find a licensed medical professional to complete your medical forms. CLS cannot reimburse expenses related to completing the medical forms, including travel expenses and translation/interpretation services.

I don’t have a primary care doctor or health insurance, and it will therefore be expensive for me to see a medical professional to complete my pre-program medical documents. What should I do?

Having a medical professional (doctor, PA, or NP) complete and sign Medical Form Parts 1 and 2 is a requirement of the CLS acceptance process. If you don’t have access to a medical professional at this time, the following resources may be available to you:

• Medical provider who provided a physical to you within one year of the program start date: If you have had a recent physical (within one year of the program start date), you can work with that provider to complete the medical forms. Please note that not all providers may be willing to provide this service. Some may require additional information from you, such as a phone call or in-office visit. Others may charge fees to provide this service.
• University-affiliated medical services: Some colleges and universities employ medical professionals who offer services to students. Services may be limited and may be offered for a fee or free of charge – each university is unique.
• Local Health Department: Health Department services vary widely from state to state and from county to county, but some may offer travel immunizations and other consultation services for a reduced fee or free of charge. Check your state’s Department of Health website to identify what services are available in your area.
• Free or reduced-priced clinics in your area: There may be health clinics run by local or national non-profit organizations in your area. To find these, you will likely need to do some research on your own as each town and city in the U.S. has unique local resources. Services may be limited, payment models may differ, and insurance may or may not be accepted.

CLS cannot recommend a specific provider to you or reimburse you for any costs associated with completing Medical Forms Part 1 and 2. If you have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact your Program Officer.

Is CLS Spark being offered for 2026?

No, the CLS Spark virtual initiative is not being offered as part of the 2026 CLS Program. However, we hope that you will apply to study a different CLS language overseas.

For other language study opportunities with CLS, please see: https://clscholarship.org/languages.

I completed CLS Spark in 2025. Can I apply for an overseas institute?

Alumni of the 2025 CLS Spark virtual initiative who maintain eligibility and apply for the same language will receive automatic semifinalist status. Please note that our general eligibility guidelines regarding enrollment status still apply: https://clscholarship.org/applicants/eligibility.

If you are considering applying for an overseas institute after completing CLS Spark, keep in mind that you will have a stronger application if you demonstrate your commitment to the language through additional independent study or outside coursework.