Scholarship, Grants & Awards
Discover your opportunities

Expanding Program Accessibility

Syracuse Academy, under its MÁRE Initiative for Diversity and Inclusion, is proud to offer a comprehensive range of scholarships aimed at fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within our study abroad programs in Sicily. Our scholarships are designed to support students from all walks of life, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder the opportunity to gain international experience. With offerings that include need-based scholarships for academic study and internships, as well as targeted support for students from Minority-Serving Institutions and underrepresented groups, we are committed to creating an accessible and enriching environment for every student. Through these scholarships, Syracuse Academy strives to uphold the values of the MÁRE Initiative, promoting a global education that is inclusive, diverse, and transformative.

List of available Scholarships, Awards and Grants

Affiliate College and University Grant

The “Affiliate Partner Grant” from Syracuse Academy enhances study abroad experiences in Sicily with additional support for students from affiliated institutions. This grant is part of our comprehensive offerings, which include academic excellence, personalized program options, and internship opportunities. Students enrolled at our Affiliate Partner schools benefit from automatic grants towards their Syracuse Academy programs, underscoring our commitment to accessible, high-quality international education. For a current list of Affiliate Partners and to see if your institution is included, please visit our website.

Grant Amounts

  • $1000 grant per student accepted to a Syracuse Academy Semester
  • $350 grant per student accepted to a Summer Study Program.

Disbursement:

  • The Affiliate Partner Grant will be automatically deducted from the final invoice.
  • Students are subject to all Syracuse Academy refund and program cost policies.

MÁRE Justice Community and Service Scholarship

Syracuse Academy is excited to offer the MÁRE Justice Community and Service Scholarship, targeting students who have shown a deep commitment to community service and social justice. This scholarship supports the financial needs of students dedicated to making a positive impact, enabling them to participate in our enriching study abroad programs in Sicily.

Scholarship Amount:

  • €1000 for Semester Study Abroad Participants
  • €400 for Summer Study Abroad Participants

Number of Awards:

  • 2x Semester terms
  • 2x Summer term and Short-prorams (J-term / Springbreak)

Eligibility:

  • Demonstrated involvement in community service or social justice initiatives.
  • Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate program.
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0.

Requirements:

  • Completed application form.
  • A reflective essay or personal introduction video (approx. 5 minutes) detailing community service experience and its impact.
  • 2x Letter of recommendation from an individual familiar with the applicant’s community service.

Scholarship recipients are required to:

  • engage in a community or cultural project related to their studies in Sicily
  • share their study abroad experiences through the Academy’s social media or blog (1 written blog or 1 vlog)
  • at the end of their program, complete a program review (GoAbroad.com or a GoOverseas.com)
  • maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher during the study abroad term.

Disbursement:

  • Scholarship funds are directly applied towards the recipient’s tuition fees, reducing the amount owed by the student in the final invoice. In some cases the scholarship may be disbursed during the program as a stipend for living expenses.
  • Students are subject to all Syracuse Academy refund and program cost policies.

Application Deadline:

Applicants are encouraged to submit their materials early, typically 4 months prior to the program start date, to ensure ample time for financial planning and preparation.

MÁRE Need-Based Scholarship

Syracuse Academy offers the Academic Study Need-Based Scholarship to support students who demonstrate financial need in covering the costs associated with study abroad programs in Sicily. This scholarship is designed to make international education more accessible, allowing students to immerse themselves in Sicilian culture and academic excellence without the burden of financial stress.

This need-based scholarship is part of Syracuse Academy’s commitment to ensuring that all students, regardless of their financial background, have the opportunity to benefit from a transformative educational experience abroad. This scholarship is open to Federal Pell Grant eligible students that are attending any accredited Higher Education institution within the United States.

Scholarship Amount:

    • €1000 for Semester Study Abroad Participants
    • €500 for Summer Study Abroad Participants

Number of Awards: 

    • 2x Semester terms
    • 2x Summer term and Short-prorams (J-term / Springbreak)

Eligibility: 

  • Applicants must provide documentation of financial need, including FAFSA information (or equivalent for international students), to be considered.

Requirements: 

  • Completed application form.
  • A reflective essay or personal introduction video (approx. 5 minutes) detailing motivations, aims and objectives for the study abroad experience. 
  • Scholarship recipients are required to:
    • share their study abroad experiences through the Academy’s social media or blog (1 written blog or 1 vlog)
    • at the end of their program, complete a program review (GoAbroad.com or a GoOverseas.com)
    • maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher during the study abroad term.

Disbursement: 

  • Scholarship funds are directly applied towards the recipient’s tuition fees, reducing the amount owed by the student in the final invoice
  • Students are subject to all Syracuse Academy refund and program cost policies.
  • In some cases the scholarship may be disbursed during the program as a stipend for living expenses.

Application Deadline: 

  • Applicants are encouraged to submit their materials early, typically 4 months prior to the program start date, to ensure ample time for financial planning and preparation.

MÁRE Specialized Scholarships

MÁRE Specialized Scholarships

Syracuse Academy, through the MARE Initiative, offers Additional Specialized Scholarships aimed at supporting specific groups within our student body, such as first-generation college students, LGBTQIA+ students, students of color, and others who bring diverse perspectives to our study abroad programs. These scholarships are designed to recognize and celebrate the unique contributions of these students, providing financial assistance to encourage their participation in our Sicily-based programs.

Scholarship Amount:

  • $1000 for Semester Study Abroad Participants
  • $400 for Summer Study Abroad Participants

Number of Awards: 

  • 2x Semester terms
  • 2x Summer term and Short-prorams (J-term / Springbreak)

Eligibility: 

  • Criteria are specific to each scholarship, include a combination of academic achievement, personal background, and demonstrated need or merit.
  • Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate program.
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0.

Requirements: 

  • Completed application form.
  • A reflective essay or personal introduction video (approx. 5 minutes) detailing community service experience and its impact. 
  • 1x Letter of recommendation from an individual familiar with the applicant’s community service.
  • Scholarship recipients are required to:
    • engage in a community or cultural project related to their studies in Sicily
    • share their study abroad experiences through the Academy’s social media or blog (1 written blog or 1 vlog)
    • at the end of their program, complete a program review (GoAbroad.com or a GoOverseas.com)
    • maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher during the study abroad term.

Disbursement: 

  • Scholarship funds are directly applied towards the recipient’s tuition fees, reducing the amount owed by the student in the final invoice. In some cases the scholarship may be disbursed during the program as a stipend for living expenses.
  • Students are subject to all Syracuse Academy refund and program cost policies.

Application Deadline: 

  • Applicants are encouraged to submit their materials early, typically 4 months prior to the program start date, to ensure ample time for financial planning and preparation.

MÁRE Digital Narratives Scholarship

Empowering Program Ambassadors for Social Media Storytelling

Syracuse Academy seeks students passionate about marketing, communications, journalism, or visual arts like videography and photography to share their Sicilian study or internship experiences through social media. This is your chance to showcase your journey from your unique perspective! Beyond the scholarship benefits, participating in this initiative serves as an impressive addition to your professional resume.

Scholarship Amount:

  • $200 for Semester or Summer

Number of Awards:

  • 10

Eligibility:

  • To qualify for this opportunity, candidates must first complete the application process for Syracuse Academy, including the submission of the application fee, by the specified deadline. 
  • Eligible applicants are those currently pursuing undergraduate studies at a U.S.-accredited higher education institution, maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale at the time of their application.

Requirements if Selected:

  • 1 vlog + 1 written article to be posted on the Syracuse Academy blog and Social Media
  • 1 Instagram takeover AND 5 #SicilyBucketList posts
  • At the end of your program, complete a GoAbroad.com review OR a GoOverseas.com review

Disbursement:

  The “MÁRE Digital Narratives Scholarship” will be paid as a stipend by the end of the program supporting with living and re-entry expenses

Peer Pioneer Award: bring-a-friend abroad

The “Peer Pioneer Grant” from Syracuse Academy enhances the joy of studying abroad by inviting students to share the unforgettable Mediterranean experience with a friend. This grant offers a straightforward way for both participants to enjoy savings on their program fees, making the journey to Sicily not just more memorable, but also more affordable. It’s a perfect opportunity for friends aiming to explore new horizons together to benefit financially and create lasting memories.

Discount Amount:

  • €200 total off for Summer or Semester Study Abroad Program (€100 for you and €100 for your friend!)

Number of Awards:

  • Unlimited

Eligibility:

  • Participants on any in-person Syracuse Academy (not valid for students coming on a Customized Program through their home institution).
  • Applicants must have completed the Syracuse Academy application and paid the application fee prior to the application deadline in order to be eligible.
  • Applicants must have at least a 2.5 GPA (on a 4.0 GPA Scale) during the time of application.

Application Instructions:

  • Just list your friend’s name on your Syracuse Academy application and you both will receive the grant! It’s as simple as that!

Disbursement:

  • The “Peer Pioneer Grant” will be automatically deducted from the final invoice.
  • Students are subject to all Syracuse Academy refund and program cost policies.

Please note our “Peer Pioneer Grant” is based on both students being accepted into and participating on a Syracuse Academy program – if one of the two is not accepted, or if one of the two withdrawals from the program, neither student will be eligible for the discount.

Forward Thinker Award: call for Early-bird planners

The Forward Thinker Award is specially crafted for students who plan ahead and make early decisions about their study abroad adventures with Syracuse Academy. This grant rewards early-bird planners with significant savings on their program fees, making the dream of exploring the Mediterranean more accessible and budget-friendly. If you’re someone who likes to get a jumpstart on planning and enjoys the peace of mind that comes with early preparation, this grant is an excellent opportunity to reduce your expenses while securing your spot in Sicily.

Grant Amount:

  • €200 off any Syracuse Academy program

Number of Awards:

  • Unlimited

Eligibility:

  • Participants on any in-person Syracuse Academy (not valid for students coming on a Customized Program through their home institution).
  • Applicants must have completed the Syracuse Academy application and paid the application fee prior to the application deadline in order to be eligible.
  • Applicants must have at least a 2.5 GPA (on a 4.0 GPA Scale) during the time of application.

Application Instructions:

  • Pay your 1st Tuition Installment by the early-bird dates listed on the program page to receive the grant. It’s as simple as that!

Disbursement:

  • The Forward Thinker Award will be automatically deducted from the final invoice.

  Students are subject to all Syracuse Academy refund and program cost policies.

MSI Outreach Initiative Scholarship

The MSI Outreach Initiative Scholarship is designed to support students from Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) who wish to study abroad with Syracuse Academy. This scholarship aims to enhance the diversity of our study abroad programs by providing financial assistance to students from historically underrepresented groups.

This scholarship is part of Syracuse Academy’s commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment that recognizes and supports the unique perspectives students from MSIs bring to our global community.

Scholarship Amount:

  • $1000 for Semester Study Abroad Participants
  • $400 for Summer Study Abroad Participants

Number of Awards: 

  • 2x Semester terms
  • 2x Summer term and Short-prorams (J-term / Springbreak)

Eligibility: 

  • Students must be currently enrolled at an MSI and demonstrate both financial need and a strong academic record.

Requirements: 

  • Completed application form.
  • A reflective essay or personal introduction video (approx. 5 minutes) detailing motivations, aims and objectives for the study abroad experience. 

Scholarship recipients are required to:

  • share their study abroad experiences through the Academy’s social media or blog (1 written blog or 1 vlog) or at MSI events to inspire future students.
  • at the end of their program, complete a program review (GoAbroad.com or a GoOverseas.com)
  • maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher during the study abroad term.

Disbursement: 

  • Scholarship funds are directly applied towards the recipient’s tuition fees, reducing the amount owed by the student in the final invoice
  • Students are subject to all Syracuse Academy refund and program cost policies. In some cases the scholarship may be disbursed during the program as a stipend for living expenses.

Application Deadline: 

  • Applicants are encouraged to submit their materials early, typically 4 months prior to the program start date, to ensure ample time for financial planning and preparation.
Through the MARE Initiative and MSI Outreach Initiative, Syracuse Academy strives to create a dynamic and supportive learning environment that reflects the diversity of our global community. Our commitment to inclusivity and support for all students is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring a rich and transformative study abroad experience in Sicily.
Giada Bonaventura

DEI Officer, Syracuse Academy

  Fundraising options 

Besides the Scholarships, awards and grant options listed below, many students also seek to fund their study abroad program experience. We encourage such active efforts, which require motivation and initiative on behalf of the students and provide a trustworthy third-party platform to facilitate the process:

   Financial Aid options at Home University

For students considering study abroad, exploring financial aid options through your home university’s study abroad office is crucial. They can provide detailed information on scholarships, grants, and other funding opportunities specifically available for international programs. Engaging with your study abroad office early on will ensure you have access to the widest range of financial support to make your global education experience both enriching and affordable. Syracuse Academy admissions office will provide you with relevant documentation to support you in this process.

Application Process

To apply for any Syracuse Academy scholarship, students must complete an online application form available on the Syracuse Academy website. This form requires personal information, academic history, and financial need details, along with specific documents:

Required Documents for scholarships:

  • A personal statement or essay related to the specific scholarship.
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Financial need documentation (for need-based scholarships).
  • Letters of recommendation (varies by scholarship).

Completethe Scholarship Application form by providing all the information that you are comfortable disclosing. Information is treated in accordance to our Privacy Policy and GDPR regulations. While not required to apply, information collected or shared about race, ethnic, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or age are in place to ensure we have a diverse array of candidates in line with the goals of the MARE Initiative.  

Deadlines are crucial and vary by scholarship.

Upon submission, applications undergo a review process by a committee. Selected candidates may be invited for an interview. Scholarship awards are announced approximately one month after the application deadline. Recipients must accept their scholarship within two weeks of notification to finalize the award.

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