Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program

Application Closed

The 2026 CLS application is now closed. If you submitted or started an application prior to the deadline, you can log in to view your application form.

Applications for the 2027 CLS Program will be made available in Fall 2026. Thank you for your interest in the CLS Program.

About the CLS Program

The Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program is a program of the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. Government and supported in its implementation by American Councils for International Education.

The CLS Program provides immersive summer programs for U.S. undergraduate and graduate students to learn languages of strategic importance to the United States' national security and economic prosperity. Participants receive the equivalent of one year of language study in eight weeks, through intensive language instruction and cultural activities that reinforce both language learning and intercultural competence. Since 2006, the CLS Program has supported over 10,000 U.S. undergraduate and graduate students. CLS alumni represent all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.

For more information about the CLS Program, please visit: www.clscholarship.org

Contact Us

Contact CLS Program staff during normal business hours Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time, at:

Email: cls@americancouncils.org
Telephone: USA 877.257.9922 (toll free) / Outside USA (+1) 202.833.7522

Please review our Privacy Policy and Cookies Policy before continuing.