International Cultural Service Program Scholarship: Eligibility, Deadline & How to Apply

The International Cultural Service Program (ICSP) Scholarship is a unique and prestigious opportunity offered by the University of Oregon (UO). Unlike traditional scholarships based solely on academic merit, the ICSP is a cultural exchange scholarship designed for international students who are passionate about sharing their heritage. In return for a significant tuition waiver, selected students serve as cultural ambassadors in the local Eugene-Springfield community and on campus.

If you are an international student with strong communication skills and a desire to educate others about your home country, this scholarship provides an incredible chance to reduce your educational costs while gaining invaluable leadership and public speaking experience. It’s a transformative program that fosters global understanding and builds a close-knit community of scholars.

For the 2025-2026 academic year, the application cycle is now open. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the ICSP scholarship, including its coverage, eligibility criteria, the application process, and key deadlines. Prepare to embark on a rewarding journey of cultural service at a top-tier U.S. university.

The ICSP scholarship is an internal award offered exclusively by the University of Oregon. It is not applicable to other institutions. The scholarship supports students in a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs offered at the university.

International Cultural Service Program Scholarship Awards

The International Cultural Service Program Scholarship is a competitive, partial tuition-waiver award for international students at the University of Oregon. It is designed to make a U.S. education more accessible while enriching the cultural fabric of the campus and local community.

The scholarship provides significant financial support, which is renewable each year until you complete your degree, provided you maintain the program's requirements.

• Partial Tuition Waiver: The scholarship covers approximately half of your tuition costs.
• Renewable Award: The scholarship can be renewed annually until degree completion.
• Cultural Service Commitment: In exchange for the funding, recipients agree to complete 66 to 80 hours per year of cultural service.

International Cultural Service Program Scholarship Amount

The ICSP scholarship is a partial tuition waiver, not a fixed cash amount. The value is directly tied to the University of Oregon's tuition fees, covering about 50% of tuition costs. The exact monetary value can vary depending on your specific program and residency level (undergraduate or graduate).

International Cultural Service Program Scholarship Benefits

Beyond the substantial financial aid, the ICSP scholarship offers profound professional and personal development benefits that extend far beyond the classroom.

The eligibility criteria for the ICSP scholarship are specific and must be met fully. The selection committee looks for a combination of financial need, academic excellence, and a demonstrated passion for cultural exchange.

Who Can Apply for the International Cultural Service Program Scholarship

Both new and continuing international students at the University of Oregon are eligible to apply for the ICSP scholarship. This includes students pursuing bachelor's or master's degrees.

The application process is completed entirely online through the University of Oregon's scholarship portal. It is a multi-step process that requires careful attention to detail.

1. Apply for Admission to UO: You must first apply for admission to the University of Oregon for the Fall 2025 term by January 15, 2025.
2. Receive Your UO ID: Within three days of applying, you will get your UO Student ID number via your Admissions Status Portal.
3. Access the Scholarship Dashboard: Use your UO ID to log in to the UO Scholarship Dashboard.
4. Complete the Profile and General Application: Fill out your general scholarship profile.
5. Submit the ICSP Application: Complete the specific International Cultural Service Program Scholarship application, which includes questions about your cultural background and experiences.

Application Timeline for ICSP Scholarship

Adhering to the deadlines is critical, as the University of Oregon enforces them strictly.

International Cultural Service Program Scholarship Interview

While not always a guaranteed part of the process, shortlisted candidates for the ICSP scholarship may be invited for an interview. This interview is a key component to assess your suitability for the cultural ambassador role.

• (B) Format: Interviews are typically conducted virtually (e.g., via Zoom) and are designed to evaluate your presentation skills, cultural knowledge, and communication abilities.
• (B) Preparation: You should be prepared to discuss your home country's culture in depth and demonstrate how you would engage an audience during a cultural presentation.
• (B) What to Showcase: Highlight your confidence, clarity, and passion for cultural exchange. The panel is looking for students who can be effective and enthusiastic representatives of their heritage and the ICSP program.

New and continuing international students may apply for the International Cultural Service Program (ICSP)

Preparing your documents in advance is crucial for a smooth application process. You will need the following for your ICSP scholarship application:

• University of Oregon Student ID Number: You will receive this within 3 days of applying for admission.
• Academic Transcripts: To demonstrate your minimum 3.5 cumulative GPA.
• Proof of Admission: You must be fully admitted to the UO (for new students).
• Financial Documentation: Evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover expenses beyond the scholarship.
• Application Essays/Responses: Your answers within the scholarship dashboard will be used to assess your communication skills, cultural experience, and financial need.

FAQs about International Cultural Service Program (ICSP) Scholarship

Who is eligible for the ICSP Scholarship?

You must be an international student admitted to the University of Oregon with a minimum 3.5 GPA. U.S. citizens and permanent residents are not eligible. Financial need and experience with cultural activities are important selection factors.

What does the ICSP Scholarship cover?

It is a partial tuition-waiver scholarship that covers approximately 50% of your tuition fees at the University of Oregon. It does not cover living expenses, travel, or visa costs.

Can I apply for the scholarship before being admitted to the University of Oregon?

No. You must first submit your application for admission to the UO by the January 15th deadline. You will then use your assigned UO ID to access and complete the separate ICSP scholarship application.

Is the ICSP scholarship renewable?

Yes. The ICSP scholarship is renewable each year until you complete your degree, provided you maintain the required GPA and fulfill the 66-80 hours of cultural service annually.

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