STORRS, CT — UConn has set a new institutional record with 31 students earning Gilman Scholarships in the most recent cohort, enabling them to study abroad across 14 countries with nearly $94,000 in combined federal scholarship funding.
The Gilman program, backed by the U.S. Department of State, supports undergraduate students with high financial need in gaining international experience through study, language immersion, and internships.
The program’s selection marks a milestone for UConn, which has now seen 40 Gilman recipients across the last two cycles—October 2024 and Spring 2025—amounting to over $121,500 in support.
“We are very excited that the Gilman program has selected so many UConn students this cycle,” said Michael Cunningham, assistant director of UConn’s Office of National Scholarships & Fellowships and Fulbright advisor. “It’s a testament to the quality of our students and to the hard work that they put into their applications.”
The recipients represent a wide range of majors—from nursing and political science to engineering and psychology—and will study in destinations including Spain, Ghana, South Korea, Mauritius, Ireland, Germany, and Singapore.
Rachel Gleicher, advisor in Experiential Global Learning and Gilman certifying official, emphasized the determination of this group amid uncertain federal funding landscapes.
“They remained committed to their aspirations. Now more than ever, it is crucial to ensure students are aware of the funding opportunities available to them.”
Each recipient is required to complete a community-based service project upon their return, helping to raise awareness about international education and promoting study abroad accessibility to underrepresented student populations.
The Gilman Scholarship is open to U.S. undergraduates receiving Pell Grants and aims to broaden participation in global education among first-generation students, students of color, and those in STEM and underrepresented fields.
