Can I use my Segal Education Award if I already graduated?

Yes. You can enroll non-degree-seeking for at least one academic credit at an accredited Title IV institution that partners with an international program provider. The school receives your award funds and applies them to the program.

Do I have to go back to school full time?

No. One academic credit is enough. You are not applying for a degree, a transcript review, or a full course load.

Will this affect my existing student loans?

Enrolling for a single credit is usually short and non-degree-seeking, but it can affect loan deferment or grace periods. Check with your loan servicer before you enroll.

Resource hubAward Basics

Can I Use My Segal Award If I Already Graduated?

Yes. You do not need to be enrolled in a degree program. As long as you take at least one academic credit through an accredited Title IV school, your Segal Education Award can pay for a study or intern abroad program, even if you finished your degree years ago.

By Kristal Sawatzke|Updated August 17, 2026|3 min read

Why graduating does not disqualify you

The Segal Education Award is not a scholarship for degree-seekers only. It is a payment that AmeriCorps sends to an eligible school on your behalf. The requirement is the school, not the degree. If the institution participates in federal Title IV student aid, it can receive your award.

That is why alumni who graduated in 2015 can use the same pathway as alumni still finishing a bachelor's degree. You enroll non-degree-seeking, take the credit attached to your program abroad, and the school draws down your award.

How it works, step by step

The mechanics are the same for every alum, graduated or not.

Choose an international volunteer or internship program offered with academic credit.
Enroll non-degree-seeking for that credit at the partnering Title IV school.
Request your award payment through your AmeriCorps My AmeriCorps account, directed to that school.
The school applies the funds to your credit and program fees, and refunds eligible remaining costs per its policy.

The one thing to check first

Confirm your award has not expired. Awards must be used within seven years of finishing your term of service. If yours is inside a year of expiring, request the funds now, even if you plan to travel later, and talk to us about timing.

Quick answers

Can I use my Segal Education Award if I already graduated?: Yes. You can enroll non-degree-seeking for at least one academic credit at an accredited Title IV institution that partners with an international program provider. The school receives your award funds and applies them to the program.
Do I have to go back to school full time?: No. One academic credit is enough. You are not applying for a degree, a transcript review, or a full course load.
Will this affect my existing student loans?: Enrolling for a single credit is usually short and non-degree-seeking, but it can affect loan deferment or grace periods. Check with your loan servicer before you enroll.

Free info session

Rather talk it through with someone?

We host a free, peer-led session every month. Bring your questions, no commitment required.

Save my spot