A Program of the 
Applications for the 2026 CLS Refresh cycle are now open - a funded opportunity for CLS alumni to continue building their language skills. As we continue to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, as well as the 20th anniversary of the CLS Program, CLS Refresh offers an opportunity to honor our nation’s history while preparing for its future through global engagement.
Program Details
Selected alumni will receive up to 20 hours of one-on-one virtual language instruction with a CLS language institute partner between October and December 2026. Tutoring may occur in the early morning or late evening hours in the U.S. due to time zone differences.
Eligibility
CLS alumni in good standing, including 2026 participants, are eligible to apply. Applicants may only apply for one Refresh language, which must be a language they previously studied through CLS.
The following persons are ineligible for one year following termination of employment/service:
- U.S. Department of State employees in offices under the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Academic Programs, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA);
- Employees of agencies under contract or grant with the U.S. Department of State performing CLS Program-related services; or
- Immediate family members (spouses and dependent children) of the above individuals (does not apply to self-supporting family members living apart from parents).
These provisions do not extend to part-time or temporary employees, consultants, interns, or contract employees of the U.S. Department of State unless performing services related to the CLS Program.
Selection & Preference
Applicants will be selected based on their demonstrated commitment to and connection with their CLS language and/or region. Preference will be given to U.S. military veterans and alumni who have not previously participated in CLS Refresh. Please note that selection may depend on partner institute capacity.
Application
Applications are due by Wednesday, September 16 at 11:59 PM ET.
Start an application today: https://clscholarship.fillout.com/refresh2026
Notifications will be sent in October. Host institutes will then reach out to alumni directly to schedule tutoring sessions.
Contact Information
Please direct any questions you have regarding CLS Refresh or the application process to clsalumni@americancouncils.org.