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Applications are currently being accepted for the World Affairs Councils of America (WACA) Student Scholars Program 2026. Interested applicants are encouraged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and apply for it.
Established in 2010 with generous support from the Malú and Carlos Alvarez Family, the Student Scholars Program offers 25 undergraduate students from Council communities the opportunity to attend the National Conference at no cost. WACA also supports the travel, room, and board of program participants.
While in Washington, the students also attend Scholar Day, an exclusive excursion into DC that includes visits to think tanks, embassies, international organizations, and more. Through these experiences, students map their global futures and take important next steps in their education and careers.
1. Attendance at the National Conference: WACA selects 25 undergraduate students from Council member communities to attend the National Conference at no cost. The conference provides opportunities to learn from professionals working across the international affairs field.
2. Travel and Lodging Support: WACA provides $1,250 to the nominating Council to help defray the Scholar’s travel and lodging expenses, including double-occupancy accommodation. The participating Council is responsible for arranging transportation and hotel reservations, which must cover all three days of the National Conference.
3. Scholar Day in Washington, DC: Scholar Day is an exclusive excursion designed specifically for Student Scholars. Students have the opportunity to explore Washington, DC institutions connected to international affairs, including think tanks, embassies, international organizations, and other institutions involved in global affairs and policy.
4. Career and Academic Exploration: The program helps students “map their global futures” by meeting professionals and visiting organizations involved in international affairs. The experience is particularly valuable for students interested in international relations, diplomacy, foreign policy, global development, international economics, public policy, government, international organizations, nonprofit and civil society work, global security, international journalism, and research.
Basic Eligibility
Apply for WACA Student Scholars Program
