Scholarship Programs for Fiji

Steep Your Studies in South Pacific Sights and Sounds

The Fiji islands are host to a rich landscape of flora and fauna, and home to some of the world’s most sensitive coral reefs. That’s why many students interested in Fiji are often interested in biology, marine ecology, biodiversity and environmental programs.

This cluster of South Pacific Islands — located between Hawaii and New Zealand — has attempted economic and social development, but has often fallen short due to political interruptions that have destabilized its democratic system. The most prolific industries are in tourism and sugar. Both English and Fijian are the official languages, making it an easier trek for American students who aren’t geared toward studying another language.

International studies programs offer students in Fiji the opportunity to explore the economy and history, arts and culture, hospitality and an impressive array of natural resources.

Private Organizations

The School for International Training (SIT) offers the Samoa: Pacific Communities and Social Change program, which provides a week-long stay in Fiji to allows students to compare and contrast other Pacific Islands with Fiji’s culture. SIT is a study abroad organization that specializes in providing unique and enriching international studies programs with field trips, homestays and community activism. Scholarships are awarded to students based on both strong academics and financial need:

• The Compton Fund is designed for students interested in environmental or sustainable development themes, so it would be fitting for Fiji.
• SIT Pell Grant Match Award matches federal Pell Grant funding for all study abroad programs.
• The Compton Fund is for students enrolled with environmental, peace studies, or sustainable development themes.
• SIT Fund is for students with demonstrated financial need.
• HBCU Scholarships are for students enrolled at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

College Scholarships

University of Wisconsin-Platteville Education Abroad offers a three-week program at the University of South Pacific in Suva, Fiji, to study marine ecology, environmental studies, tropical ecosystems, ecotourism and other applicable subjects. Biology majors can apply for a $2,000 award toward studying abroad in Fiji and candidates are selected based on academic record and financial need. Preference is given to those whose studies have already demonstrated relevance or interest in the South Pacific region. Full-time degree seeking UW-Platteville students in any field can apply for a $725 scholarship for a semester or year-long study abroad program.

Students majoring in almost any discipline at the University of Minnesota may be able to customize their studies at the University of South Pacific in Suva, Fiji, due to its diverse range of experiential offerings. Scholarships are available through UM’s Learning Abroad Center, including:

• Judee J. Kleffman Scholarships are open to full-time students participating in a study abroad program. Awards are $500 and based on academic merit.
• Billman International Scholarships benefit Minnesota residents with awards of $1,000. They are available to undergraduate and graduate students.
• Glen Hendricks International Study Fund awards undergraduates and graduates $1,200 for a semester of study or $2,000 for an academic year.

Scholarships for Fiji Students

Fijian students interested in undertaking degree studies at a U.S. college or university may apply for U.S.-South Pacific Island Scholarship Program sponsored by the U.S. Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs and administered by the East West Center. The program includes a summer internship in Washington, D.C. as well as a four- to five-week community service project in the student’s home country. Educational fields such as liberal arts, environmental studies, agricultural, computer science, business and education are encouraged.