SANTA BARBARA — The University of California Education Abroad Program (UCEAP) recently announced the launch of a new $1.5 million scholarship initiative. UCEAP is committing $500K in scholarships for each of the next three years to expand opportunities for UC students from all backgrounds and academic disciplines to study abroad with UCEAP.

"As we enter our 50th anniversary year, there is no better way to translate our commitment to a vision of ‘study abroad for all' than to provide scholarship opportunities that help as many UC students go abroad as possible," said Jean-Xavier Guinard, associate vice provost and executive director of UCEAP. "We recognize the financial obstacles brought about by the current state of the economy and the rising cost of higher education, and we remain dedicated to providing funding to UC students who face this new financial reality."

The cost of UCEAP participation is typically far less than the cost of non-UC study abroad programs and, in many locations, is comparable to the cost of study on a UC campus. Yet the need for financial aid and scholarship opportunities remains critical to student participation in study abroad.

Research shows that students who participate in study abroad programs graduate faster and enjoy more career benefits and opportunities. Students also frequently cite their overall study abroad experience as the highlight of their UC education.

"As a leader and innovator in study abroad for 50 years, UCEAP is committed to providing access to scholarships as well as diverse programming options that allow UC students to earn UC credit and UC grades towards their degree," said Guinard. In 2011-12, exclusive UCEAP study abroad scholarships totaled more than $300,000. UCEAP scholarships for the 2012-13 academic year are available for participants in UCEAP quarter, semester, summer and yearlong programs with top academic institutions around the world as well as participants in new 50th anniversary UC faculty-led programs in the summer of 2012.

For more information on UCEAP's new scholarship initiative, including application details and deadline information, visit UCEAP Scholarships.

The University of California Education Abroad Program (UCEAP) has served as the UC systemwide international exchange program since 1962. Serving all ten campuses, UCEAP continues its support of the University of California's mission through academic instruction and exchange relationships around the world. Through study abroad, UCEAP provides the opportunity for students to become international citizens and global thinkers, equipping them with the understanding and skills necessary for success in the global marketplace.