The Star of the West International Summer Scholarship is a one-time grant of up to $7,500 to support the academic enrichment of cadets whose project proposals present a clear connection between the summer experience and their goals after graduation. Special consideration is accorded to applicants pursuing highly competitive awards for graduate study, such as Fulbright, Marshall, Rhodes, or Truman scholarships. Particularly distinguished recipients may be invited to apply for a second or third grant.



Eligible for the Star of the West International Summer Scholarship are rising cadet sophomores, juniors, and seniors posting a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher. Applicants must submit a narrative proposal, detailed budget, and two letters of recommendation from a faculty member.

Statement of Grant Purpose: This one-page document outlines the Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How of what you are proposing for your SOTW summer. In all cases the summer scholarship should show how the experience will help you meet your career aspirations. Many applicants will be taking classes under a Citadel (or another university’s) study abroad program. In that case, summarize the program, exactly what classes you will be taking, etc. Include how you will benefit from living in that country (eg living with a host family). If you are pursuing a research project, developing a strong, feasible and compelling project is the most important aspect of a successful application.

If you are not going on a Citadel study abroad program, or a program from another university, then your Statement of Grant Purpose should address the following points:
1. Where do you propose to conduct your study or research?
2. What do you propose to do?
3. What is innovative about the research?
4. What are the specific research goals and methodologies?
5. Why do you want to undertake this project?
6. What are your qualifications for carrying out this project?

Format: single spaced, 12 point Times New Roman, 1 inch margins.

References: You must submit two reference letters as part of the application. The authors should be the two individuals who can best speak to your ability to carry out the project (or completing the program) being proposed; they should discuss your intellectual and professional preparation, and your ability to represent the Citadel abroad. You should provide the reference writer with a copy of your Statement of Grant Purpose before requesting the reference letter. The reference letter should NOT simply be a character reference, as this will be of no value in assessing your ability to complete the study abroad program or the proposed project.