Cost Shouldn’t Decide Who Studies Abroad

Studying abroad builds sharper skills, greater confidence, and a broader understanding of the world—exactly the qualities the United States needs in its next generation of leaders. But for too many talented students, cost is the barrier that shuts the door before they ever have a chance to step through it.

National data is clear: 80% of American students cite cost as the biggest obstacle to studying abroad, and nearly half of those who don’t go say the financial burden makes it impossible.

American Councils and its supporters are tackling that barrier by raising funds for scholarships that put transformative study abroad programs within reach—for students who have the drive, talent, and commitment, but not the resources. Since 2016, American Councils —with the help of generous supporters—has provided scholarships to more than 320 U.S. students to study in regions critical to U.S. interest and return with advanced language skills and cross-cultural fluency.

Your participation in the Silent Auction does more than place a bid—it helps close that critical last mile of funding. Even the most modest gift can be the difference between staying home and stepping into the world.

100% of auction proceeds go directly to study abroad scholarships.

American Councils Annual Silent Auction 2025