Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program: An In-Depth Overview
The Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, represents a significant government initiative aimed at expanding the number of Americans studying and mastering critical foreign languages. This program offers undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to learn languages of strategic importance to the United States’ national security, economic prosperity, and engagement with the world. The CLS Program provides participants with the equivalent of one year of language study in eight weeks, achieved through intensive language instruction and cultural activities that reinforce both language learning and intercultural competence.
Since its inception in 2006, the CLS Program has supported nearly 10,000 participants in acquiring critical language skills and intercultural competence. These skills are highly valued in a globalized workforce and enhance a student’s competitiveness across various career fields.
Program Overview
Each summer, CLS Scholars enrolled at colleges and universities across the United States spend approximately eight weeks studying one of a dozen languages either overseas or virtually. The Program includes group-based language instruction and structured cultural enrichment experiences designed to promote rapid language gains. Formal classroom language instruction is provided for a minimum of 18 hours per week, covering approximately one academic year of university-level language coursework.
CLS Spark
For students who may not be able to travel abroad, CLS Spark offers a virtual alternative. This initiative provides beginning-level Arabic, Chinese, and Russian instruction online. CLS Spark leverages cutting-edge virtual learning tools to deliver high-impact language training from anywhere.
What are Critical Languages?
Critical languages are those deemed essential to the United States’ national security, economic prosperity, and engagement with the world. These languages are typically less commonly taught in the United States or have relatively few proficient speakers. The CLS Program addresses this gap by offering intensive study in these critical languages.
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The following languages are offered, with varying eligibility requirements based on prior study:
- No previous study: Hindi, Persian, Portuguese, Swahili
- One year of previous study: Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Russian
- Two years of previous study: Japanese
Program sites and dates vary by language.
Program Benefits
The CLS Program offers a comprehensive package of benefits to its participants, including:
- Round-trip travel between the participant’s home city and program location
- Visa application fees, where applicable
- Room, board, and program-sponsored travel within the host country or location
- Language instruction
- All entrance fees for CLS Program cultural enhancement activities
Additional program benefits may be provided at a later date. However, passport fees and the cost of medical exams or immunizations are not covered by the scholarship.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
The CLS Program is open to both undergraduate and graduate students. Applicants must be in acceptable mental and physical health. Students of diverse disciplines and majors are encouraged to apply.
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Participants are selected based on their demonstrable commitment to language learning and their ability to show that the language and cultural knowledge they gain is integral to their future academic and professional pursuits.
The CLS applications are reviewed by language faculty, area specialists, study abroad professionals, and fellowship advisors as part of the selection process. During the first round of review, all applications are read by two outside reviewers.
Alumni Network
CLS alumni represent all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. CLS alumni remain part of a vibrant global network, with opportunities to stay engaged through year-round activities and special initiatives that foster continued learning, professional growth, and connection.
Application Process
Public applications are accepted, and applicants may apply once, for one language and for one model (i.e., global engagement). The CLS application for the 2026 summer programs is available online. Applicants seeking advising should contact Scott Palmer to set up a meeting.
Success Stories
The CLS Program has produced numerous success stories. For example:
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- Addison Miller, a 2024 CLS Chinese Program participant in New Taipei City, Taiwan, leveraged her experience to shape her path toward a career in international and comparative education. Her CLS experience played a pivotal role in connecting her academic interests with real-world experience.
- Sam Bowden, a 2024 CLS Russian Program participant in Tbilisi, Georgia, leveraged his personal and academic interests in Russian language, literature, and geopolitics to build meaningful international connections and launch a career in foreign policy.
- Alex Graber, a Biology major at Vassar College in New York, participated in the CLS program at Okayama University in Okayama, Japan.
- Lucas San Miguel is Emory’s 12th Schwarzman Scholar.
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