Experiential Learning Funds
Every year BYU provides money for IR majors who are participating in “inspirational learning” or “experiential learning” activities. These include:
- BYU study abroad.
- International internships (especially those for BYU course credit).
- Washington Seminar and some other domestic internships.
- Mentored or directed learning abroad (such as language study at a foreign university).
- Other experiential activities such as conference attendance.
If you are planning to do one of these activities and would like to receive experiential learning funds, please click the Apply Now button below.
Frequently Asked Questions About Experiential Learning Funds
Can non-IR majors apply?
Not for IR experiential learning funds. Non-IR majors should ask their home department or program about their experiential learning funds.
When can I apply? Is there a deadline for applications?
The university usually allocates experiential learning funds for each calendar year in February, so the best time to apply is in January or early February. Applications early in the year will have the highest priority. Applications later in the year may have to compete for smaller amounts of remaining money.
What if I find out about a cool program later in the year?
Submit an application as soon as you decide to participate. I will set some funds aside for applications later in the year.
What if I’m not sure whether I’m going or not?
Submit a tentative application anyway. That way I can budget money for you in case you go. No funds will be released until you are sure. It is easier to delete your application if you decide not to go than to add your application after most of the money has been awarded.
How much money is available?
The actual amount depends on how much the university provides—and that information is usually not available until February. In 2024, the typical award for an international experience was about $1,500 – $2,500, but amounts can be higher or lower. International programs generally receive higher funding than domestic programs. The typical award for participating in a conference is about $500.
How are applications evaluated? Do I have to have high grades to go?
In making awards, we focus on financial need and the academic and career relevance of the program. We do not consider grades. In past years, we have been able to provide some funding for nearly all study abroad, international internship, direct enrollment, and Washington Seminar students.
What kinds of experiences are not covered?
Due to the large number of IR students participating in international and Washington experiences, the IR major does not provide experiential learning funds for research assistant jobs, Utah state legislature internships, or most other experiences that take place primarily in Utah.
Do I have to be enrolled in classes during my experience?
No. BYU will only give experiential learning funds during a semester/term when you are enrolled in classes (minimum 0.5 credit hours), but we can work around that: If you are not going to be taking classes during your experience, let us know in advance so we can arrange to provide your funds the semester before or after.
Is anything else required?
If you receive experiential learning funds, the university will contact you to ask how this experience contributed to your academic, career, and/or personal growth. Please respond thoughtfully, remembering that your answers may make it possible for future students to continue to benefit from these sacred funds.