The Gilman-McCain Scholarship is a prestigious opportunity for eligible children and spouses of active-duty U.S. military personnel to pursue their academic dreams through study abroad programs. Funded by the Department of State and managed by the Institute of International Education (IIE), this scholarship honors the late Senator John McCain’s commitment to public service and global engagement. It aims to make international experiences more accessible to military families. This article addresses frequently asked questions to provide clarity and comprehensive information for potential applicants, ensuring a smooth application process and maximizing their chances of securing this valuable scholarship.
Who Can Apply for the Gilman-McCain Scholarship? Is it for Veterans?
The Gilman-McCain Scholarship is not designed for veterans or dependents of veterans. It is specifically for dependents (children and spouses) of active United States military personnel serving in the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, or Coast Guard.
Veterans and their dependents should explore the general Gilman Scholarship Program, which has different eligibility criteria. You can find detailed information about the Gilman Program and its requirements on the official Gilman Scholarship website.
Do I Need a Federal Pell Grant to Apply for the Gilman-McCain Scholarship?
No, you do not need to be a Federal Pell Grant recipient to apply for the Gilman-McCain Scholarship. Eligibility is broader. To be eligible, you must be a child or spousal dependent of an active military service member in the U.S. Armed Forces (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, or Coast Guard) and be receiving any type of Title IV federal financial aid.
If you meet the dependent and active military status requirements, you should apply. The Gilman program will automatically consider eligible dependents for the Gilman-McCain Scholarship when they apply for the Gilman Scholarship, provided they submit proof of their dependent status.
What if My Parent or Spouse is Active Duty Now, But Not When I Study Abroad?
You are still eligible for the Gilman-McCain Scholarship if your parent or spouse is an active military member at the time you submit your application. Their active duty status at the time you commence your study abroad program is not a factor in your eligibility.
If Eligible for Both Gilman and Gilman-McCain, Which Application Do I Complete?
If you are eligible for both the Gilman Scholarship (due to Pell Grant receipt) and the Gilman-McCain Scholarship (as a military dependent), you should complete the Gilman-McCain Scholarship application.
The Gilman Program system is designed to automatically consider students eligible for the Gilman-McCain Scholarship if they apply for the Gilman Scholarship and provide proof of their dependent status. Applying directly for the Gilman-McCain ensures you are considered for the scholarship most tailored to your specific eligibility.
Can I Receive Both Gilman and Gilman-McCain Scholarships?
No, you can only receive one scholarship if you are eligible for both. If you qualify for the Gilman-McCain Scholarship, you will be considered for and, if selected, awarded the Gilman-McCain, and you will not be considered for the general Gilman Scholarship. The Gilman-McCain Scholarship is prioritized for eligible military dependents.
Can Gilman-McCain Applicants Apply for the Critical Need Language Award?
Yes! Gilman-McCain Scholarship applicants are fully eligible to apply for the Critical Need Language Award. If you are planning to study a critical need language in an eligible location, you are encouraged to apply for this additional award to potentially increase your scholarship funding.
How Many Gilman-McCain Scholarships Are Awarded?
The Gilman-McCain Scholarship is a significant investment in military families. For the current academic year, 100 awards of $5,000 each are available. This number highlights the competitive nature of the scholarship and the importance of a strong application.
Are Dependents of Deceased Active Military Members Eligible?
Unfortunately, no. The Gilman-McCain Scholarship eligibility is strictly limited to dependents of currently active military members. Dependents of military personnel who died while on active duty are not eligible for the Gilman-McCain Scholarship.
For alternative study abroad funding options, it is recommended to explore the Other Study Abroad Resources section on the Gilman Scholarship website, which lists various scholarships and grants that may be applicable to different student profiles.
Is There an Application Fee for the Gilman-McCain Scholarship?
No, there is absolutely no application fee for the Gilman-McCain Scholarship. Applying is completely free. This fee-free application process ensures that financial constraints do not deter eligible students from applying for this valuable opportunity.
Are Dependents of Reservists Eligible for the Gilman-McCain Scholarship?
Yes, dependents of reservists are eligible, provided the reservist is on active duty status. The Gilman-McCain Scholarship is open to children and spouses of all active U.S. military members. This encompasses active duty personnel in:
- Air Force, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard
- Army, Army National Guard, Army Reserve
- Coast Guard, Coast Guard Reserve
- Marine Corps, Marine Corps Reserve
- Navy, Navy Reserve
- Space Force
- NOAA Commissioned Corps
- USPHS Commissioned Corps
To verify eligibility, all applicants must provide their child or spouse dependent military ID (DD1173 Form). This form serves as official confirmation of the guardian or spouse’s active military member status.
By addressing these common queries, this guide aims to empower potential applicants with the necessary information to confidently pursue the Gilman-McCain Scholarship and embark on a transformative study abroad experience.
