Students dreaming of studying in another country can apply for a new scholarship to make it possible.
The Arlene Schnitzer Study Abroad Scholarship is a new opportunity for students majoring in one of the programs offered by the Schnitzer School of Global Studies and Languages to experience its interdisciplinary curriculum out in the world.
It is part of the $25 million gifted last year by Jordan Schnitzer and the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation to the Schnitzer School of the College of Arts and Sciences. The scholarship offers students up to $5,000, with most awards averaging $3,000, to use for any study abroad or internship program sponsored by Global Education Oregon (GEO). In the first call for applications, 45 students applied for the $100,000 in available funds.
“The Arlene Schnitzer Study Abroad Scholarship allows students to take a courageous next step in their education, deepening their global awareness and putting them on track to become well-rounded, world-wise leaders,” said Aneesh Aneesh, Schnitzer School executive director. “Jordan Schnitzer honored his mother by naming this meaningful scholarship after her.”
The scholarship funds may be used at any time during students’ careers at the UO, and students do not need to have declared a major in the Schnitzer School when they apply. However, they must be majors in the Schnitzer School by the time they go abroad. Financial need, academic merit, and the scholarship application are all considered in the selection process.
The Schnitzer School prepares students for dynamic international careers through rigorous engagement with global issues, innovative language instruction, rich learning opportunities beyond the classroom, and structured pathways of study that lead to a wide range of options for real-world professional options.
“This scholarship allows more students to take advantage of the transformative benefits of studying abroad,” said Aneesh. “Some of the benefits include stronger language skills, deeper global engagement, and a a broader understanding of the world.”
Fourth-year student Taylen Hall has studied abroad twice: first for cinema studies in Ireland, then for journalism in Spain. “I was able to balance meeting new people and going outside and making myself uncomfortable, but in a way that was so rewarding for me.”
The tremendous amount of education through language and culture exposure makes studying abroad uniquely valuable. As Hall says, “If you're out of the country for a month, it feels like a year of learning.”
The next application cycle will likely open in Spring 2026 with a December 15, 2026 deadline.