Scholarships open doors. They provide opportunities to further your education and advance your career in ways that may otherwise not be possible. For students in the Americas, one scholarship program stands out as a leader in this mission – the Organization of American States (OAS) Scholarship and Training Programs.
A Brief History of the OAS
Founded in 1948, the OAS is the world’s oldest regional organization. Based in Washington D.C., it currently has 35 member states across North, South, and Central America, as well as the Caribbean.
The OAS aims to promote cooperation and advance common interests and values among countries in the Americas. It works on a wide range of issues, including democracy, human rights, sustainable development, education, and more.
Promoting higher education has been a focus since the organization’s early years. In 1949, the OAS established its Department of Scholarships and Training to expand access to quality academic programs. Over the decades, it has awarded tens of thousands of scholarships at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
Types of OAS Scholarships
The OAS offers two main scholarship programs – the Academic Scholarship Program and the Scholarship and Training Programs. Let’s examine each in more detail:
Academic Scholarship Program
The Academic Scholarship Program awards fully-funded scholarships for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees at accredited universities in OAS member states (excluding the U.S. and Canada).
Scholarships cover all mandatory university tuition and fees, a monthly living stipend, health insurance, application fees and more. The duration depends on the degree level – usually 2-4 years for a bachelor’s, 1-2 years for a master’s and 3-5 years for a PhD.
Academic fields supported include areas like business administration, computer science, engineering, education, health, agriculture and more. Students can choose programs taught in English, Spanish or Portuguese.
Scholarship and Training Programs
The Scholarship and Training Programs fund workshops, seminars, conferences, and short-term academic programs throughout the Americas.
Awards cover things like tuition, travel, accommodation and a daily subsistence allowance. Program durations vary but are usually 1-6 months. Subject areas include public administration, sustainable development, human rights, conflict resolution and more.
While not full degree scholarships, these programs offer invaluable professional development and networking opportunities for both recent graduates and mid-career professionals. Many alumni later receive Academic Scholarships for continued studies.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an OAS scholarship, applicants must meet the following primary eligibility criteria:
- Citizenship: Be a citizen and resident of an OAS member state (excluding the U.S. and Canada).
- Age: Be between 18-25 years old for Academic Scholarships and 18+ for Training Programs at the time of application.
- Education: Have completed secondary/high school education for academic scholarships and usually a bachelor’s degree in training programs.
- Language: Meet the language proficiency requirements of the academic program for which they are applying. Programs may be in English, Spanish, or Portuguese.
- Future Work Commitment: Agree to work for two years after graduation in the public sector of their home country or an OAS member state if awarded a scholarship.
Additionally, applicants need excellent academic achievement thus far, strong professional references, and a compelling personal statement detailing their commitment to public service. Knowledge of the Americas and inter-American issues is valued.
The Application Process
Now that we understand the scholarship types and eligibility criteria let’s dive into how to actually apply:
October-November: Application Period Opens
The application period opens in early October and remains open through mid-November each year. All required documents must be submitted online by the deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Personal Data Form
This form collects basic information like name, date of birth, citizenship, contact details, education history and English proficiency level.
Online Essays and Personal Statement
Two short essays (150-250 words each) require highlighting achievements, interests and how the scholarship fits career/study plans. A 1,000-2,000 word personal statement details academic/professional goals and commitment to public service.
Academic Requirements
Official secondary/university transcripts need to be uploaded in original language plus certified English translations. Standardized test scores like SAT/ACT may also be requested.
Letters of Recommendation
At least two reference letters from university professors, employers or community leaders emphasizing skills, character and fit for the program.
Supporting Documents
Passport copy, national ID, proof of current student/employment status and diploma may also be required.
Program Selection
After reviewing all submitted documents, qualified candidates are recommended for specific degree programs at partner universities based on profile match. Offers are announced in April.
Securing Admission at Partner Universities
Once approved by OAS, candidates are nominated to their top program choices but must still gain direct admission. This involves further steps:
- University Application: Complete online application for nominated program by its deadline (usually late May).
- Admissions Tests: Take any required tests like GRE, GMAT, TOEFL/IELTS if not waived based on prior scores.
- Interviews: Prepare for video/phone interviews assessing language, motivation and fit for the university.
- Document Uploads: Provide university-specific requirements like letters of recommendation, CV/resume, writing samples.
- Acceptance Notification: Universities notify of acceptance decisions between June-August.
- Visa Application: Begin visa process for study destination country if accepted to a program.
Securing admission can be competitive, so staying organized, meeting deadlines and communicating clearly with OAS and university representatives is important during this stage. Failure to gain direct admission results in automatic disqualification.
Maintaining Your Scholarship
Even after receiving scholarship approval and securing enrollment, work doesn’t end there. OAS scholars must continue meeting requirements throughout the entire program duration:
- Academic Performance: Maintain a minimum GPA, full-time enrollment status and satisfactory progress each term to remain eligible.
- Professional Conduct: Uphold the highest standards of integrity, responsibility and respect on campus and in the community.
- Public Service Commitment: Actively participate in public/community service initiatives related to scholarship field of study.
- Progress Reports: Submit detailed term/annual reports on academic activities, challenges and goals to the OAS.
- Continued Eligibility: Meet all scholarship obligations like attendance at orientation events and completion of required trainings.
Failure to satisfy any criteria may result in probation, suspension or termination of funding. OAS scholars represent not just themselves but their home countries and the entire organization, so exemplary dedication is expected.
Scholarship Alumni Success Stories
Thousands of professionals across the Americas have achieved their academic and career dreams thanks to OAS support. Here are a few highlights:
- Juan Pérez from Peru earned a master’s in business analytics at a top Canadian school. He now leads data science projects at a major international NGO.
- Maria Lopez from Uruguay obtained a PhD in education policy from the U.S. Her research informed national curriculum reforms in Uruguay and beyond.
- Ana Silva from Brazil completed a master’s in public health management. She is the director of a national maternal and child health program.
- Carlos Rojas from Argentina received training in diplomacy and foreign affairs. He currently serves as ambassador to the OAS from his home country.
Countless more doctors, engineers, lawyers, entrepreneurs and leaders owe their success and ability to give back to these opportunities. Despite budget constraints, the OAS remains one of the top providers of accessible international scholarships. Its investments continue uplifting communities across the Americas.
Maximizing Your Chances of Selection
While any scholarship application involves uncertainty, diligent preparation increases odds of selection for OAS awards. Here are some additional tips:
- Craft outstanding essays highlighting regional or inter-American aspects wherever possible within word limits.
- Request letters of recommendation from those who can personally attest to your strengths and commitment to service.
- Research target countries and universities thoroughly to be able to discuss fit-in interviews.
- Highlight extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and community leadership roles related to career aspirations.
- Establish proficiency in English, Spanish, or Portuguese beyond minimum exam scores through immersion experiences.
- Consider submitting additional portfolio materials showcasing talents and interests like writing samples, artworks, or certificates.
- Ensure all documents are officially certified, translated properly and verified. Check, double-check, and have others proofread.
- Communicate professionally, respectfully and promptly with OAS representatives throughout the process.
- Explore scholarship options outside the OAS as fallback options through other organizations and universities.
With dedication to crafting a stellar application package backed by outstanding credentials and attention to detail, aspiring scholars can maximize their chances of joining this prestigious program.
