A female student abroad stares at a large ancient stone carving of a face adorned with other geometric motifs

First Abroad Scholarship

The First Abroad Scholarship supports first-generation students planning for a study abroad experience. It is a one-time scholarship of $3,000 used to fund participation in a UT-approved study abroad program.

This scholarship is ideal for first-generation students that know they want to study abroad but have not yet chosen a program.

Eligibility

You are eligible for the First Abroad scholarship if the following describes you:

  • You are a first-generation college student
  • You are an undergraduate student
  • Your first semester at UT will be Fall 2026
  • You have a current FAFSA on file with UT Austin
  • You are not a transfer student from a four-year university

Awards

Awards are intended to be used during the standard four years of an undergraduate education.

  • Awards from the 2026 fall application cycle will be announced in mid to late January 2027. Scholarship notifications will be made via email.
    • Scholarship awards from the 2026 fall application cycle will be available for use starting Fall 2027.
  • These awards are considered planning scholarships and are not intended for Spring programs, including May terms, immediately following the award announcements.
  • Awards are to be used within a student's standard four years at UT. Funds are not to be used to extend graduation.

Application

The next application cycle for eligible students will open over the summer (2026), and applications are due December 1, 2026. Late applications will not be accepted. 

Applications for the First Abroad Scholarship are accepted through LASSO. 

Apply Now for First Abroad

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible if I have dual credit from high school?

You are still eligible for this scholarship. First Abroad scholars will discuss dual credit with their advisor during their advising appointments.

Is there a GPA requirement for this scholarship?

There is no minimum GPA requirement to be eligible for the scholarship. However, you must be in good academic standing at the time you study abroad.

How do I know if I am considered a first-generation college student? I have a sibling incollege, am I still a first-generation student?

You are a first-generation student if neither parent has received a four-year degree, regardless of whether you have siblings in college.

What if my parents received a four-year degree outside of the U.S.?

Many students whose parents have received degrees from outside of the U.S. identify as first-generation. If this applies to you, you will have the opportunity to provide details in the application.

I am transferring to UT Austin from a community college. Am I still eligible?

Yes, as long as you have not previously attended a four-year university.

I am a CAP student. Am I eligible?

Yes, students who are enrolled in their first year at UT and have completed their one-year CAP program are eligible.

Why is there preference for students who have not studied abroad?

Our goal is to increase access to education abroad to all students and maintain equitable practices. The scholarship is open to first-time participants so that we are able to maximize access to education abroad.

Are there any restrictions on what types of programs this scholarship can be used for?

The First Abroad Scholarship can be used toward any UT approved Education Abroad program including Texas Global sponsored internships. The scholarship cannot be used on abroad programs that are less than 3 three weeks.

When am I allowed to use my scholarship?

The First Abroad Scholarship is a planning scholarship and intended for use during the standard four years of an undergraduate education. Since it is a planning scholarship, it is available for use starting the fall after award announcements. It cannot be used for Spring, May term, or summer programs immediately following the award announcement.

Can I receive the First Abroad Scholarship more than once?

No. The First Abroad Scholarship is a one-time award.

What other scholarships or resources are available for first-generation students?

UT awards millions of dollars in scholarship money a year to students. In addition, students may be eligible for additional scholarship competitions like the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship Program. Visit the Funding section of our website to learn more about other Texas Global scholarship opportunities.