Hostelling International USA (HI USA) is thrilled to announce a travel scholarship opportunity aimed at assisting young travelers aged 18 to 30 in realizing their travel ambitions and dreams. At the heart of HI USA's mission is the desire to support people of all ages in their pursuit of travel as a means of better understanding the world and its diverse cultures.
Scholarship Details
- HI USA will award 31 scholarships to applicants from across the United States
- 30 General Explore America Travel Scholarships
- 1 scholarship will be dedicated to a current or former member of the Girl Scouts from anywhere in the United States
- Each scholarship includes a $1,500 travel stipend, 4-7 free overnights at select HI USA hostels across the country, free pre-travel workshops and planning assistance, and a complimentary one-year HI USA membership.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be aged 18-30.
- Applicants must be U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents (possessing a green card), or qualify under DACA.
- Applicants should demonstrate financial need by meeting at least one of the following criteria:
- Current Pell Grant recipient.
- Income level not exceeding 300% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- Applicants must convey a genuine interest in exploring the culture of the selected city and present a compelling case for why and how they are novice travelers.
Application Process
- Complete the scholarship application on HI USA's website.
- If selected, awardees are expected to complete pre-travel requirements between March 28th and May 16th.
- Recipients may begin traveling as soon as May 31st, and must complete their travel within one year or forfeit the award and return all disbursed funds.
HI USA's Explore America program helps young Americans with demonstrated financial need kickstart their travel dreams. Your trip begins here. Your journey never ends.