Live and learn la vida local through the culture and language of Costa Rica! Whether your Spanish skills are at the 101 level or the advanced level, you'll be able to further your Spanish language in Costa Rica on this summer or winter program. You will attend Maximo Nivel, a language school in San Jose offering Spanish language education at all levels.
You can choose to go on either a three-week program during winter intersession or a six-week summer language program. The UW Spanish Language Program is specifically designed to match the Spanish course offerings at UW-Madison.
In addition to courses, Maximo Nivel offers you cultural activities, and opportunities to take advantage of the local scenery, including a visit to a nearby volcano.
San Jose is Costa Rica's capital city with a population of 370,000 people. Maximo Nivel is located in San Pedro, a neighborhood east of downtown San Jose. You'll be a short bus ride from the city center. San Jose is a city where visitors of the entire world converge; a metropolis full of interesting places, faces, and colors reflecting the history of a population.
Gain competence with the Spanish language and Costa Rican culture
Engage with fellow UW students
Experience intentional immersion in a supportive environment
Develop a literacy in day-to-day life in San Jose
Achieve personal development and the ability to adapt to a new culture
Diversity & Inclusion
We are committed to providing quality study abroad and domestic study away programs for every UW-Madison student. We work strategically to identify, address, and remove barriers that may prevent participation and to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for students. Our staff actively engages with students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds and prioritizes the continuous development of our knowledge and cultural competence. We also recognize the importance of increasing access to study abroad for historically underrepresented student populations. We are committed to diversity and inclusion so that every student can engage with and understand their identity through a new lens and continue to develop and make progress on their personal, professional, and academic goals.
Sustainability
We recognize that the future of study abroad, domestic study away, and international internship programming requires a Commitment to Sustainability. We are devoted to examining, developing, and improving sustainability in all our endeavors, aligning with campus priorities and following through with UW-Madison's climate action and Resilience Commitment. Join our efforts and learn more about how to study abroad sustainably.
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Eligibility
2.0 cumulative GPA
3.0 cumulative GPA in all Spanish language courses. No Spanish language GPA is required if enrolling in Spanish 101 on the program.
Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior
Open to UW-Madison degree-seeking students only
Good academic and disciplinary standing
At the time of application and the semester prior to participation, UW-Madison students must be currently enrolled. Transfer Students to UW-Madison need to be currently enrolled at their home institution
Advising Location
Program Structure
UW Signature
Subjects
Spanish language, literature, and civilization.
Classroom Language
Spanish
Housing
Local Hosts
Program Duration
Summer: Late May - Early July Winter Intersession: Late December – Mid-January
All classes at Maximo Nivel meet Monday through Friday (and Saturdays in the Winter session) and are taught in Spanish by local faculty. Maximo Nivel's methodology is based on the communicative approach emphasizing conversation. You'll take your classes with other UW program participants. While you will not take classes with local students, Maximo Nivel coordinates a Tandem Conversation Program that will allow you to connect with local students. Class sizes vary from 1-8 UW-Madison students, depending on levels of other participants.
Available Courses
Prerequisites must be completed before studying more advanced levels. All courses are 3 credits, except for Spanish 101-204, which are 4 credits. The following courses are offered during winter intersession and summer:
Spanish 101: First Semester Spanish Spanish 102: Second Semester Spanish Spanish 203: Third Semester Spanish Spanish 204: Fourth Semester Spanish Spanish 226: Intermediate Language Practice w/ Emphasis on Writing & Grammar Spanish 325: Advanced Conversation Spanish 328: Medical Spanish Spanish 329: Spanish for Business
In addition to the above courses, the following are also offered in the summer:
Spanish 311: Advanced Language Practice Spanish 460: Topics in Literature Spanish 468: Topics in Culture
Summer Language 6-Week You will take one or two courses, each lasting for the full 6-week period.
Students taking 101, 102, 203, or 204 will take only one course.
Students taking courses 226 and above may enroll in 2 courses.
Winter Intersession You will take one course during the three-week winter intersession (3-4 credits).
Use the links below to see a list of courses that past students have taken
on this program and the UW equivalents. Note: This list only includes
pre-approved courses for your program and may not be an exhaustive list of
courses, departments or equivalents. Courses may not be available the
semester you are abroad. You will receive instructions on the course
equivalent process after acceptance.
View Course Equivalents
Costa Rica is a beautiful country with many different natural wonders to explore. In a country with a population of four million people, San Jose is the capital and largest city in Costa Rica, located in the Central Valley. The city is easy to explore by bus or taxi. There are many museums, theaters, restaurants, and more to enjoy while you're there. Discover a city where the largest population of Ticos (Costa Ricans) calls home.
Culturally, San Jose has European influences from Spanish immigration after the discovery of Costa Rica by Christopher Columbus. This can be seen in its architecture. It is a modern city with commerce, art and architecture, is considered an educational hub, and is a destination stopover for foreign visitors coming to take part in Costa Rica’s bustling tourism industry. While San Jose is warm year-round, its elevation gives it a mild climate and a rainy season from May to mid-November.
Outside of San Jose, the province alone extends to the northeast, crossing the impressive mountains of the Central Mountain Range, which includes national parks, forest reserves, and fertile lands, with an abundance of coffee plantations. Whether in San Jose, or out in Costa Rica’s landscape, enjoy the comfortable lifestyle and overwhelming natural beauty this country offers. Costa Rica is one of the few places where environmental issues are given a proper place in discussion.
Cost of living varies widely by location. Be sure to consult a variety of resources when researching cost of living.
Housing
An important objective for the Costa Rica program is to learn local culture firsthand. You will be placed in homestays with local hosts.
Your homestay will be within walking or bus distance to the school, around 15-30 minutes. Breakfast and dinners will be provided daily by the homestay. There will be one to three students assigned to each homestay and all rooms will have their own bed, desk and closet.
Program Considerations
In a physical sense, the on-site experience may be very different from life on the UW campus. You may walk or take public transportation more than you are used to in Madison. The physical activity level will vary by program, but in general you should be prepared for extended periods of time walking, potentially on uneven terrain.
For many students, discovering and experiencing new foods is a part of the experience. It is important to consider any dietary restrictions, whether they are due to health conditions, religious beliefs, or individual needs, and look into whether you can get the foods you need locally.
How you identify yourself in Madison may differ from how people will view you on-site. Consider exploring our Identity Resources to reflect on how your identities may impact your experience. Students with disabilities should keep in mind that attitudes and laws related to disabilities vary by country, and these differences may impact the level of accommodation available in a particular location. More details are available on our page on Study Abroad for Students with Disabilities.
We encourage you to contact your Study Abroad Advisor and share your accommodation needs with us as early as possible. This will allow us to help you explore your options in advance.
Excursions and Activities
You will have a city tour, a coffee tour, and visit a volcano. Dance classes are available once a week. There will also be an included cooking class and cultural activity, though there are other optional activities generally each day ranging from free to minimal cost. Maximo Nivel also organizes a free Tandem Conversation Program with their English language students.
On-Site Support
Maximo Nivel has a full-time staff who are available to assist you during the program.
IAP expects you to be an active participant in preparing yourself for your study abroad experience. As a participant on an IAP program, you will receive a pre-departure orientation, either in-person or online. The type and format of this orientation will vary by program and will be provided to you upon acceptance to the program. You will also have an orientation with Maximo Nivel upon arrival in Costa Rica.
Visa
A visa is not required for U.S. citizens for this program. U.S. citizens must have a U.S. passport valid for at least six months beyond the end of the program. Non U.S. passport holders may have different visa requirements. Ask your Study Abroad Advisor if you have any questions.
Getting to Your Program
You are responsible for arranging your own airfare. Maximo Nivel will provide airport pick-up in San Jose. Arrival guidelines will be provided after acceptance.
Insurance
You will be enrolled in the UW System required health insurance through Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) and the cost of the insurance coverage is included in program fees.
If you are a citizen of a country other than the United States and will remain/study in, or travel to your country of record (the location of your permanent residence), the insurance provided for you is the same as the “study away” insurance provided to U.S. citizens studying on domestic U.S. programs. You may want to explore alternative or additional international health and medical insurance that will cover your needs both while in and during any period of transit to/from your country of record. This may include participation in a national healthcare plan or coverage provided under a personal healthcare plan in your country of record. If you have questions about the coverage of the “study away” plan, please speak with your Study Abroad Advisor.
All other students participating on an international program will automatically be enrolled in Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI), the university's international health, medical and repatriation insurance policy.
Program cost information includes program fees, as well as out-of-pocket expenses with notes to help explain costs. Program fees are estimated and can be adjusted at any time. Once accepted, you will receive a cost sheet that includes confirmed program fees and additional out-of-pocket expenses. "The IAP Program Fee" and all processes and policies stated on this cost sheet apply to all participants on programs managed by International Academic Programs (IAP) and in partnership with the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, the College of Engineering, and Wisconsin School of Business. All students participating on approved programs are all eligible to apply for scholarships administered through IAP when they meet the scholarship eligibility and selection criteria.
Sources of available funding for study abroad include scholarships, grants and loans. To increase your chances of receiving financial aid, we recommend filling out your FAFSA to begin the financial planning process early.
For detailed information on financial resources, visit our Funding Study Abroad.
Scholarships
This scholarship list includes scholarships we know are relevant to this program. It is not an exhaustive list of all available scholarship opportunities for study abroad. Although we make our best effort to ensure the list is up-to-date, this information changes frequently, and it is the responsibility of the applicant to verify information. For additional scholarship information, please visit our scholarship page.
"[This experience] will prepare me for a career in science and environmental communication, where cultural competence and multilingual communication are essential for reaching underrepresented communities." –Alicia L
"My Spanish has improved more than I could have hoped. I’m able to communicate with everyone I meet and make friends and have a good time with them, all in Spanish. The motivation to learn here is strong because we NEED to learn the language in order to live and converse with the Costa Ricans."
"I stayed with an older woman who lived on her own. Experiencing family dynamics in another country and getting to see interaction first hand provides students with a great cultural learning opportunity."
"The real learning came from the consistent use of Spanish and from interacting with the community. The classes gave us the skills to do that."
Video Description and Transcript: During his Instagram takeover, Daniel documented his time at a cooking class while answering questions about his experiences, the food, and the benefits of studying abroad. Read the full video transcript.
How to Apply
First, make sure you have reviewed the information for Prospective Students on the IAP website.
There is also specific Academic Planning information that you should review.
IAP completes a review of all applications to determine if students meet minimum eligibility requirements.
Session
Application Status
Summer 2026
Application Not Available
Disclosure
Students Requiring Accommodations: Consult and register with the McBurney Disability Resource Center McBurney Services if you will need academic, housing, and/or other disability-related accommodations or services abroad.
Military-Connected Students with Veteran’s Benefits: Talk with University Veteran Services about how your benefits can be used for study abroad.
This program is offered by International Academic Programs. We have a team that works with each program. Each member of this program team is able to help students with different kinds of questions. Visit the advising webpage to learn how to schedule an appointment.
Enrollment Manager
For questions on application advising, program eligibility, course equivalency request process, grade processing.
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate students participating on an IAP study abroad program in Latin America. Applicants must have a 3.0 cumulative GPA and demonstrate some financial need. Scholarships range from $500-2,000.
This award was established in 1975 with a bequest from the estate of Cyril Winton Nave, a 1918 UW-Madison business graduate, and is given to students studying abroad in Latin America. Mr. Nave was the founder and director of the Atlantic Refining Company and had many dealings in Latin America.
Award Amount
$500 - $2,000
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate students participating on an IAP program in Latin America. Applicants must have a 3.0 cumulative GPA and demonstrate some financial need.
How to Apply
This scholarship is an auto-match application. Students who submit an application for the IAP Study Abroad Conditional Application in the Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH) will be automatically considered if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Global Scholars Scholarship
Description
This scholarship is available to UW-Madison students participating in the following affiliated programs: Center for Educational Opportunity, Chancellor's & Powers Knapp Scholarship Program, First Wave, PEOPLE, or the Posse Program. The scholarship was designed to support Scholars who are engaging in study abroad or study away opportunities during the Winter Intersession and/or Summer; must be participating on an International Academic Programs (IAP) study abroad program, in partnership with CALS, Engineering, Business, & the International Internship Program (IIP).
Pending annual renewal, this scholarship is available to UW-Madison undergraduate students pursuing degrees in the School of Education who are studying abroad on an IAP program. Any School of Education undergraduate major is eligible to apply. Preference will be given to applicants for whom this would be their first study abroad experience, as well as for students on a program to Africa, Asia, or Latin America.
This award is made possible from alumni of the School of Education who share the school's value of international education.
Award Amount
$3,000
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarship is available to UW-Madison undergraduate students pursuing degrees in the School of Education who are studying abroad on an IAP program. Any School of Education undergraduate, including students in "pre" status (e.g., pre-Elementary Education, pre-Kinesiology), or students earning the Certificate in Educational Policy Studies or the Certificate in Education and Educational Services are eligible to apply. Preference will be given to applicants for whom this would be their first study abroad experience, as well as for students on a program to Africa, Asia, or Latin America.
How to Apply
Students who are eligible are automatcially considered for this award.
CALS Study Abroad Scholarships
Description
Students must have their primary academic program in CALS are eligible to apply for scholarships specifically for CALS majors. Students must apply for the Study Abroad Scholars scholarship through IAP to be considered for these awards. Students must have also completed/submitted their study abroad application in order to be considered for a CALS study abroad scholarship.
Students who are completing the Global Health Certificate, but whose majors are outside of CALS (such as L&S) are not eligible.
Award Amount
Varies ($1000-$2500)
Eligibility Criteria
Students must have their primary academic program in CALS to be eligible to apply. Students who are completing the Global Health Certificate, but whose majors are outside of CALS (such as L&S) are not eligible. Students must have also completed/submitted their study abroad application in order to be considered for a CALS scholarship.
Pending annual renewal, this scholarship is available to UW-Madison undergraduate students pursuing degrees in the School of Education who are studying abroad on an IAP program. Any School of Education undergraduate majors, including students in "pre" status (e.g., pre-Elementary Education, pre-Kinesiology) are eligible to apply. Certificate students are not eligible.
This award is made possible from Claire Shaffer who worked in the Dean's Office in the School of Education for 17 years. Claire believes that spending time overseas helps persons to more fully understand and appreciate the difference in our cultures and perspectives. Spending that much time involved in various capacities made her appreciate what UW-Madison stands for, and how it positively impacts the lives of all who study and work in the environment. She hopes that the recipient of the scholarship will fully embrace the experience the culture and opportunities that present themselves while overseas. And, hopefully, be able to travel, whenever, and wherever they get a chance.
Award Amount
$2,000
How to Apply
Students who are eligible are automatcially considered for this award.
History Department Global Perspectives Scholarship
Description
History majors at UW-Madison are eager to study and intern abroad and bring what they learn in the classroom to life. The Department of History’s Global Perspectives Scholarship hopes to make this possible for History Majors and those pursuing a Certificate in History. This scholarship provides students with financial awards starting with $1500 towards short term study abroad and intern abroad programs, $3000 towards semester programs, and $4000 towards year-long programs. The scholarship can be used toward the eligible study or intern abroad program of your choice. Award Amount
$1500-$4000
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Department of History Global Perspective Scholarship, an applicant must be: 1. a full-time, degree-seeking undergraduate student at UW-Madison in good academic and disciplinary standing 2. a History Major or pursuing a Certificate in History 3. Be in the process of applying, or have already applied, to a UW-Madison Study or Intern Abroad program for Summer, Fall, Winter Intersession Spring, or Academic Year. International Internship participants must be enrolled in the Worldwide Internship Program (WIP) online course. Additional consideration will be given to:
-Members of traditionally underrepresented groups in higher education: African American, Hispanic/Latinx, American Indian, and Southeast Asian (i.e., Cambodian, Hmong, Laotian, Vietnamese) -Students with financial need (EFC of $12,000 or lower preferred) -Students from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds (educational or social disadvantage, such as coming from a low-income family, an underserved rural or farming community, attending a school with a limited college preparatory curriculum, or other family circumstances that have affected your educational opportunities) -First generation college students -Students traveling abroad for the first time -Additional funding may be available for students completing internships in Africa while enrolled in the Worldwide Internship Program (WIP).
How to Apply
This scholarship is an auto-match application. Students who submit an application for the IAP Study Abroad Conditional Application in the Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH) will be automatically considered if they meet the eligibility criteria.
L&S Honors Study Abroad Grant
Description Each year, the L&S Honors Program supports Honors students intending to study abroad at a UW-Madison-approved academic study abroad program through the L&S Honors Study Abroad grants. Award Amount
$1250
Eligibility Criteria
L&S Honors student studying on an approved UW-Madison Study Abroad Program How to Apply Students can apply for this award at Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH).
Phi Kappa Phi Study Abroad Grants
Description
Phi Kappa Phi Study Abroad Grants are designed to help support undergraduates as they seek knowledge and experience in their academic fields by studying abroad. Fifty $1,000 grants are awarded each year. Students do not have to be a member of Phi Kappa Phi to apply.
Award Amount
$1,000
Eligibility Criteria
1. The competition is open to Phi Kappa Phi members and nonmembers in all fields of study. 2. You must be enrolled as an undergraduate student at an institiution that has an active Phi Kappa Phi chapter. 4. You must have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least a 3.75 on a 4.0 scale (3.74 GPA does not qualify). 5. You must be accepted into an accredited study abroad program before the date provided and provide the letter of acceptance as part of your application. 6. Your study abroad plan should relate directly to your academic preparation, potential career choice, or commitment to the welfare of others.
Our mission at Going is to help people travel and experience the world. Since 2017, we've helped young travelers get out there and get going. Twice a year, two outstanding students will win $1500 towards their study abroad programs. Students must be U.S. citizens or residents enrolled full-time at an accredited institution of higher learning.
Award Amount
$1,500
Eligibility Criteria
Students must be U.S. citizens or residents enrolled full-time at an accredited institution of higher learning. How to Apply
The FEA is committed to increasing the opportunities for dedicated American students to participate in high-quality, rigorous education abroad programs by reducing financial restrictions through the provision of grants and scholarships. This scholarship is great for students who are early in the planning process of their study abroad experience as the deadline is early.
Award Amount
Varies
Eligibility Criteria
1. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the U.S. 2. Must plan to study abroad for a minimum of 4 weeks in country 3. Is committed to supporting education abroad in his/her campus community through work with the FEA and his/her campus education abroad staff upon return
How to Apply
For more information and to apply, visit the FEA website.
Benjamin A. Gilman Int'l Scholarship Prgm
Description
The U.S. Department of State's Benjamin A. Gilman Internatonal Scholarship is a grant program that enables students of limited financial means to study or intern abroad, thereby gaining skills critical to our national security and economic competitiveness. The Gilman Scholarship Program is open to U.S. citizen undergraduate students who are receiving Federal Pell Grant funding at a two-year or four-year college or university to participate in study and intern abroad programs worldwide.
Award Amount
Varies (up to $5,000)
Eligibility Criteria
Scholarships available for undergraduate students who receive federal Pell Grant funding. Scholarships up to $5,000 for a semester/year in addition to a possible $3,000 Critical Need Language Supplement.
The Gilman Scholarship Program aims to support a diverse range of students who have been traditionally under-represented in study abroad, including but not limited to: 1. Students with high financial need 2. Students studying in non-traditional countries, especially those outside of Western Europe, Australia and New Zealand (Note: Students may not study in a country currently on the Department of State's travel warning list) 3. Students with diverse ethnic backgrounds 4. All recipients are required to carry out a Follow-on Service Project that promotes international education and the Gilman Scholarship Program at the students' home institution or in their home community.
All applicants are strongly encouraged to contact their Study Abroad Advisor for assistance with the application essays.
Great People - International Studies Scholarship
Description
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate students studying abroad on an IAP study abroad program, in partnership with CALS, Engineering, and Business. This scholarship aims to ensure that undergraduates with financial need can realize their dream of studying abroad. The Great People-International Studies Scholarship makes study abroad accessible and affordable, just as the UW Foundation’s Great People Scholarship helps to ensure that no student accepted to the university on outstanding merits will be turned away for want of money.
Award Amount
Varies
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate students studying abroad on an IAP study abroad program.
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduates participating on an IAP study abroad program. Preference is given to Evans Scholars with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA. Awards range from $500 - $1,000 depending on program duration.
This award is made possible by generous donation from Julie and Michael Gerend to help provide financial support to students who wish to study abroad since their own study abroad opportunities profoundly influenced their lives.
Award Amount
$500 - $1,000
Eligibility Criteria
Degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate participating on an IAP program. Preference is given to Evans Scholars with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA.
How to Apply
This scholarship is an auto-match application. Students who submit an application for the IAP Study Abroad Conditional Application in the Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH) will be automatically considered if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Morton and Lena Wax Scholarship
Description
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate students studying abroad on an IAP program.
This scholarship is made possible through the generous donation of the children of Morton and Lena Wax as a tribute to their parents and to express their appreciation for the excellent education family members have received at UW-Madison.
Award Amount
$500
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarships is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison students studying abroad on an IAP program.
How to Apply
This scholarship is an auto-match application. Students who submit an application for the IAP Study Abroad Conditional Application in the Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH) will be automatically considered if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Dorothy E. Paull Fund
Description
Pending annual renewal, this scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate students studying abroad on an IAP study abroad program, in partnership with CALS, Engineering, and Business.
This award was established by Mrs. Paull in 1984 and is awarded to students to promote world peace via participation in study abroad programs.
Award Amount
Varies
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate students studying aborad on an IAP study abroad program.
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison students participating on an IAP program, in partnership with CALS, Engineering, and Business, to Latin America. This scholarship was established by George and Lisa McReddie to make it possible for students to study abroad in this region of the world.
Award Amount
Varies
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison students participating on a study abroad program to Latin America.
How to Apply
This scholarship is an auto-match application. Students who submit an application for the IAP Study Abroad Conditional Application in the Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH) will be automatically considered if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Rothschild Study Abroad Scholarship
Description
This scholarship is open to enrolled UW-Madison Students from the greater Chicagoland area (as defined by Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will counties) or a current recipient of one of the WAA Chicago Chapter Scholarships.
WAA Chicago Chapter created this fund circa 2005 with the estate gift from Robert Rothschild in efforts to support study abroad participants.
Award Amount
Varies
Eligibility Criteria
Must be from greater Chicago Area (as defined by Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will counties) or a current recipient of one of the WAA Chicago Chapter Scholarships.
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison students participating on an IAP study abroad program. This award is made possible through generous donations from UW-Madison alumni and friends of study abroad programs. These donors value the benefits of study abroad and are committed to making this opportunity available to UW-Madison students.
Award Amount
Varies
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison students participating on an IAP study abroad program.
How to Apply
This scholarship is an auto-match application. Students who submit an application for the IAP Study Abroad Conditional Application in the Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH) will be automatically considered if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Study Abroad Scholars
Description
This competitive scholarship provides students with financial awards starting at $1,500 towards the eligible study abroad program of your choice, and the chance to share your experience with the UW-Madison community upon return. Students attending any program, except the funded Global Gateway programs, in IAP, CALS, ENGR, or WSB are encouraged to apply to become a Study Abroad Scholar. Please read full scholarship details, including eligibility requirements, and considerations on the Study Abroad Scholars page.
CALS majors must apply for Study Abroad Scholars to be considered for CALS donor scholarships. Award Amount
$1,500-$8,000
Eligibility Criteria
In order to be considered for the Study Abroad Scholars scholarship for this application round, an applicant must:
Be in the process of applying, or have already applied, to an IAP study abroad program (UW Global Gateway Programs are not eligible)
Be a full-time, degree-seeking undergraduate UW-Madison student
Academic merit and financial need will be considered
Submit completed application materials online by the posted deadline
Description
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate students studying abroad on any UW-Madison study abroad program. Preferences for this scholarship include a minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA, financial need, first generation college student, and first time abroad.
The Bryan Davia Scholarship was created in his honor to commemorate his life and to continue to share his gift of enriching the lives of everyone around him. As someone who loved to explore the world and everything life had to offer, Bryan would want nothing more than to help others do the same. Bryan was a compassionate, outgoing, hard working alumni of UW-Madison who cherished his time studying abroad in Barcelona. During his time abroad, Bryan set out to discover everything his new home had to offer. Bryan possessed the ability to extract the energy of a city through the exploration of its music, nightlife, and food allowing him to fully integrate himself within his environment and it’s culture. Bryan understood the value of knowledge gained from experiences and social interactions, rather than just in a classroom. We hope the recipient of this scholarship shares his devotion to balancing hard work with an unrelenting desire to explore, discover, and enjoy every moment in their new city.
Description This funding comes from Sarah Perry, who having studied abroad for a year, wishes to support the same opportunity for students. Recipients may attend the University’s Approved Study Abroad Program of their choice (of any duration, international location, or subject matter), but may lack the necessary financial resources to do so.Award Amount
$5000
How to Apply
This scholarship is an auto-match application. Students who submit an application for the IAP Study Abroad Conditional Application in the Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH) will be automatically considered if they meet the eligibility criteria.
IAP Early Bird Scholarship
Description
Undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need are encouraged to apply for the Early Bird Scholarship from International Academic Programs (IAP). You apply to this scholarship earlier than others, and also find out if you got it earlier – which is why we call it the “Early Bird.”
This $2000 scholarship is intended to:
Provide assurance of some funding earlier in the study abroad process and encourage early financial planning.
Ease some of the financial barriers of study abroad.
This award does not cover pre-departure costs. Instead it is applied to your account during the term you receive your program bill.
Award Amount
$2000
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarship is open to students who:
are in the process of applying, or have already applied, to an approved study abroad, intern abroad, or domestic study away program (find and apply to approved programs at www.studyabroad.wisc.edu);
have a Student Aid Index of $8,000 or less (as determined by FAFSA) or are a part of Bucky’s Pell Pathway; and
are full-time degree-seeking undergraduate students at UW-Madison.
Additional consideration is given to students who have the following attributes:
First time traveling abroad
First generation college student
Have not been awarded a scholarship from UW-Madison study abroad offices or participated on a Global Gateway program
Description
IAP will provide a guaranteed $1000 scholarship to students applying to the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship for the first time and meet the Gilman's scholarship eligibility requirements and application deadlines.
Students can only receive the IAP Gilman Incentive one time in their academic career. No additional application to IAP is needed and our staff will notify recipients after the Gilman scholarship deadline. Award Amount
$1000
How to Apply
For more information and to apply, visit the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship website. No additional application is needed for the IAP Gilman Incentive award. Students can only receive the IAP Gilman Incentive one time.
IAP WISc Scholarship
Description
This scholarship was established by International Academic Programs (IAP) to assist undergraduate student participants in the Wisconsin International Scholars (WISc) Program with building their global competence and citizenship skills, which is the core goal of the WISc Program. Each WISc Scholar is eligible to receive scholarships as follows:
1) 1 scholarship of $2500 toward participation on a short-term study abroad program duration (winter intersession, spring break, or summer), and
2) 1 scholarship of $4000 toward participation on a semester program OR 1 $6000 towards a year long program.
These scholarships can be used for students attending any approved UW-Madison study abroad program.
Award Amount
$2500-$6000
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible for student participants of the Wisconsin International Scholars (WISc) Program at UW-Madison.
