Students Awarded Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) to Brazil and Kazakhstan

A program of the U.S. Department of State, CLS provides undergraduate and graduate students with the opportunity to learn languages deemed critical to U.S. national security and economic prosperity. The highly competitive program offers eight weeks of intensive language instruction combined with cultural immersion experiences.

For Pinedo, the award represents more than academic achievement: “Language learning goes beyond studying. It opens your mind, builds connections, and becomes a way of discovering both the world and yourself.”

As he prepares for the program, Pinedo is excited about the opportunity for full cultural immersion. In addition to improving his Portuguese and experiencing Brazilian cuisine, he looks forward to participating in a homestay. “It is something I didn’t get to do when I studied abroad,” he explained. “I see it as a unique opportunity to fully immerse myself in the culture. I’m excited to build a genuine connection with a local family so I can experience everyday life and feel more like a local myself.” 

Having successfully navigated the competitive application process, Pinedo encourages students to approach their materials with reflection and authenticity. He advises students to clearly articulate how their experience with the language they’re applying for has shaped their academic and professional goals, and how continued study will support their future plans. He also emphasizes the importance of highlighting personal connections to the language.

Pinedo also recommends that applicants take advantage of campus resources, such as the MIIS writing center, to ensure their essays are clear, well-organized, and compelling before the late fall deadline. MIIS students enrolled at the time of application are eligible. The CLS application for the Summer 2027 typically opens in early October and closes mid-November. 

2027 Critical Language Scholarship Application To Open in Fall 2026

The U.S. Department of State will open applications for the Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) in October 2026.The program offers students a premier opportunity for rapid linguistic and cultural growth. This fully funded summer program provides intensive immersion in languages essential to global engagement, such as Arabic, Mandarin, and Hindi. See full list of languages for 2026. 

Participants gain the equivalent of a full academic year of credit in just eight weeks, paired with unique cultural excursions and local language partners. Beyond fluency, alumni receive Non-Competitive Eligibility for federal hiring, providing a significant edge in the job market. Students of all majors are encouraged to apply and join a global network of future leaders.

Past MIIS CLS Recipients

Learn more about all past MIIS CLS recipients through our news stories.