The Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program offers an unparalleled opportunity for American students to immerse themselves in one of 14 critical languages while experiencing a new culture. With no prior language experience required, this program is perfect for anyone eager to learn and grow. By participating, you’ll not only enhance your language skills but also represent the incredible diversity of the United States. Take this step towards a brighter future and make your mark on the world—apply for CLS today!
About Duke University
Duke University is a private research university in Durham, North Carolina, United States. Founded by Methodists and Quakers in the present-day city of Trinity in 1838, the school moved to Durham in 1892.
Critical Language Scholarship
Duke University invites all students interested in pursuing a master’s program to apply.
Why You Should Apply For Critical Language Scholarship
The Critical Language Scholarship organizes each summer experience, and the award will include travel, visa fees, and living expenses in the host country.
Additionally, CLS participants will receive all textbooks and language-learning materials, as well as academic credit (issued through Bryn Mawr College) that is transferrable to Duke University. CLS programs also include an ACTFL Oral Proficiency Interview at the conclusion of the program, as well as NCS eligibility for up to 3 years after program completion.
Eligibility Requirements for Critical Language Scholarship
- Be a U.S. citizen or national at the time of application.
- Others, including Permanent Residents, are not eligible, even if they anticipate naturalization by the beginning of the program.
- Be at least 18 years old by May of program year.
- Be enrolled in an accredited U.S. degree-granting program at the undergraduate (associate, bachelor’s) or graduate (master’s, doctoral, professional degree) level at the time of application.
- Applicants must be enrolled in a program that results in a degree. Applicants who are taking stand-alone or continuing education classes are not eligible.
- Applicants must be enrolled at an accredited U.S. institution. Students earning degrees at foreign institutions that are not based in the U.S. or its territories are not eligible, even if those institutions are accredited by a recognized U.S. accrediting agency.
- Applicants in an undergraduate program (associate or bachelor’s) must complete at least one full year of study (two semesters or three quarters) by the beginning of the CLS Program term.
- Applicants must be enrolled at this institution in the fall term before the program term. There are limited exceptions to the enrollment requirement; please read the following information carefully:
- If applicants are not taking classes at their home institution in the fall term, they should confirm that they are, in fact, enrolled. Institutions have different requirements to maintain enrollment status and applicants will be required to provide a signed letter from their registrar stating that you were enrolled during the fall term.
- If applicants are taking a leave of absence to participate in an organized term- or year-long study abroad program, or to participate in a substantive internship program, they may request an exception to the enrollment requirement. Exceptions may only be granted in these two cases, and decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis.
- In either case, applicants must submit a signed letter from their home college or university in the U.S. explaining their situation and their intent to re-enroll following the completion of their study abroad or internship program. They must also submit documentation from the program provider explaining the opportunity and confirming their participation. This documentation may be submitted to American Councils by email at cls@americancouncils.org.
- Applicants must successfully complete academic requirements for the fall term in order to remain eligible for the CLS Program. Applicants who withdraw or fail to maintain a passing grade average are not eligible to participate in the program.
- Applicants must meet the language requirements of the program to which they apply.
- Applicants may only apply once, for one language, each year. Applicants who submit multiple applications will be considered ineligible.
Interview date, Process and Venue for Critical Language Scholarship
- Connection between language and goals
- Contribution to the CLS Program goals of citizen diplomacy and mutual understanding
- Preparation for the CLS Program
- Adaptability, sensitivity, and resilience
- Commitment to language learning.
Application Deadline for Critical Language Scholarship
The application deadline for Critical Language Scholarship is November 30, 2025
How To Apply For Critical Language Scholarship
Interested persons should visit Duke University Scholarship webpage
