Fund for Education Abroad (FEA): Expanding Global Learning Opportunities

Introduction

The Fund for Education Abroad (FEA) is a U.S.–based nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to study abroad experiences for students from underrepresented backgrounds. FEA provides scholarships, advising, and support services to help students pursue international education opportunities, build global competence, and develop cross-cultural leadership skills.

History and Background

The Fund for Education Abroad was established in 2006 to address disparities in international education participation among underrepresented student populations. Recognizing that traditional study abroad programs tend to primarily benefit students from affluent and majority groups, FEA was created to foster equitable access to global learning.

Since its inception, the fund has helped hundreds of students study abroad in more than 90 countries worldwide, building bridges across cultures and broadening the global perspective of U.S. students from diverse backgrounds.

Mission and Purpose

The mission of the Fund for Education Abroad is to increase the number and diversity of U.S. students studying abroad through financial support, mentoring, and advising, particularly for students of:

African American, Latinx, and Native American backgrounds
First-generation college students
Students from low-income families
Students with disabilities and other underrepresented groups

FEA believes that study abroad experiences should be inclusive and accessible to all students, regardless of socioeconomic status or background.

Governance and Structure

The Fund for Education Abroad operates as a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization governed by a Board of Directors composed of education professionals, international education advocates, and community leaders.

Operational management and program delivery are led by a professional staff that works closely with partner institutions, alumni, and students to administer scholarships, advising, and support services.

Funding and Scholarships

The Fund for Education Abroad offers a variety of scholarship and support programs designed to reduce financial barriers and provide holistic support for students preparing to study abroad.

Scholarship Programs
- FEA offers multiple scholarship opportunities, including:
  - FEA Global Leaders Scholarship – Provides financial assistance for study abroad program costs
  - FEA Abroad Intensive Mentoring Scholarship (AIMS) – Combines financial support with mentoring and advising
  - FEA Internship Scholarships – Supports students engaging in international internships
  - FEA Research and Study Abroad Grants – Funding for academic research conducted abroad
Holistic Support Services
- Scholarship recipients also receive:
  - One-on-one advising from trained education abroad professionals
  - Pre-departure support and cultural readiness training
  - Networking opportunities with alumni and global professionals

These services help students navigate the logistics and cultural transitions associated with living and studying in a new country.

Application and Eligibility

Students interested in FEA support must meet eligibility criteria that typically include:

Enrollment in a U.S. college or university
Demonstrated financial need (in many cases)
Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in global learning
Participation in a study abroad or international internship program

Application details, deadlines, and specific requirements are published annually on the FEA website.

Major Programs and Initiatives

Global Leaders Scholarship
- Designed to open doors for students who might otherwise be unable to afford international education expenses, this flagship program supports tuition, travel, and living costs.
AIMS (Abroad Intensive Mentoring Scholarship)
- The AIMS program enhances the study abroad experience through structured mentoring, helping students succeed academically, socially, and professionally while abroad.
Alumni Engagement
- FEA’s alumni network supports past scholars through career development events, leadership opportunities, and global community engagement.
Partnerships and Advocacy
- FEA collaborates with colleges, universities, international organizations, and educational consortia to promote inclusive study abroad practices and policies across the higher education sector.

Impact and Outcomes

The Fund for Education Abroad has made a meaningful impact by:

Increasing diversity in study abroad participation
Supporting students with financial barriers to global learning
Enhancing student confidence, leadership, and intercultural competence
Contributing to long-term career success and global citizenship

Students who participate in FEA-supported programs often attribute their global experience to academic success, expanded worldviews, and strengthened professional aspirations.

Conclusion

The Fund for Education Abroad plays a critical role in expanding access to global learning experiences for students who have historically been underrepresented in international education. By combining financial support with mentoring and professional development, FEA helps students grow academically and personally while fostering global understanding and cross-cultural leadership.

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