How to Use Your Segal Education Award Abroad

How the award works abroad

The Segal Education Award is paid to an accredited Title IV institution rather than to you. When that institution partners with an international program provider, the coursework and the placement are bundled together, so your award can be applied to program and travel costs.

You enroll as a non-degree-seeking student and earn at least one academic credit, even if you already hold a degree. That credit is what makes the placement eligible for award funding.

What the award can cover

Depending on the program you choose, award funds typically apply to:

• Enrollment and academic credit fees
• Program and logistics fees such as accommodation, meals, and in-country transit
• Travel expenses including flights, passport fees, and insurance
• Add-on experiences like language lessons or SCUBA certification

How much funding you need

About $2,000 is generally enough for a short-term program of a few weeks. A full-time Segal Education Award can fund up to roughly six months abroad, depending on destination, duration, and program fees.

If you served part-time, you can still go. Shorter placements and lower-cost regions stretch a smaller award further.

The steps, in order

Most alumni move through the same sequence. Nothing here requires paying Pathways Abroad anything: our guidance, planning resources, and info sessions are free.

• Confirm your remaining award balance and expiration date in My AmeriCorps
• Choose a placement type: volunteer service or a global placement
• Pick a provider that works with an accredited Title IV partner institution
• Enroll as a non-degree student in the partner course
• Request your award disbursement through My AmeriCorps and confirm the amount with the institution
• Book travel once your enrollment and placement dates are confirmed

Give yourself enough lead time

Plan on two to three months between your decision and your departure. Enrollment, award disbursement, visas, and flights all move on their own timelines, and starting early keeps your options open.

If you would rather walk through it with a person, join a free info session and bring your questions.