The Bonenfant International Travel Scholarship enables students enrolled in engineering and/or physical science programs to attend semester-abroad programs offered through their accredited college or university. The goal of the scholarship is to provide international experience to students as they prepare for professional lives that promote global engagement and collaboration.

Application Information

How To Apply

Applications will be accepted from 16 October - 12 November. Apply here.

Eligibility Criteria

• Be an Optica Student Member enrolled in engineering and/or physical science programs
• Have at least a 3.0 grade point average (or the equivalent)
• Have applied for, or been accepted to, a study-abroad program of at least 6 weeks’ duration
• Show a demonstrated interest in optics related research and applications
• Be a resident of the US and a graduate of a 12-year pre-college school in the US. (Note: This requirement is in support of the scholarship’s focus on promoting global engagement between students living in the US and their counterparts around the world.)
• Agree to utilize social media platforms to share the experiences and the insights gained from living in another country

Application Requirements

• One (1) page document that:
  • Outlines your current area of study and interest in optics and photonics research
  • Describes the study abroad program you have applied for or been accepted to
  • Highlights how the program will be beneficial to your studies
  • Provides program costs and a summary of your financial need to participate in the program
• CV or resume, must not exceed four (4) pages.
• Short budget reflecting the anticipated use of this scholarship – must utilize budget template provided.  
• GPA Certificate (Min 3.0 or Equivalent)
• Two letters of recommendation. At least one of the letters should be from a faculty member who is familiar with your educational performance. 

Past Recipients

2025

Shayaan Chaudhary

Brown University, USA 

2024

Kevin Kwock

Columbia University, United States

2019

Travis Sawyer

University of Arizona, United States

2018

Adrianna Mitchell

University of Arizona, USA

2018

Alden Hoke

Drexel University, USA

2016

Evan Sloan

California Institute of Technology, United States 

2015

Victorine Muse

Cornell University, USA 

2014

Margaret Cron

Ohio State University, USA 

2013

Stephanie Laga

California Institute of Technology, USA 

• This program did not occur between 2020-2022