The County of Santa Clara and the Province of Florence have a Sister County relationship that promotes intercultural educational exchanges between these regions. Every year, the County of Santa Clara, California USA/ Province of Florence, Italy Sister County Commission offers scholarships to university students from Santa Clara County who are participating for an academic year in a university-certified study abroad program in Florence, Italy.

The Award

The Florence Sister County Commission may approve scholarships toward the studies abroad (per year) of one or more students, depending on the qualifications of the applicants. Money is dispersed in half increments, per each academic semester.

Eligibility

Candidates will be selected based on the following criteria:

Academic Excellence (minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA, with preference given to those with a higher GPA)

Residence in Santa Clara County for at least 6-months while studying at a university in Santa Clara County, or residence in Santa Clara County for at least 6 continuous months immediately prior to enrolling in a university outside of Santa Clara County. Applicants should provide a copy of documents.

Must be a matriculated student participating in a U.S. university certified study abroad program in Florence, Italy or enrolled at the University of Florence

Must have completed 60 units or more by the time of departure for the program

The Application

Applicants must describe their interest in Italian culture in one or two paragraphs and include copies of transcripts, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation.

Upon completion of the exchange program, participants are expected to write an evaluative report about their experiences abroad for future applicants, contribute to the internationalization of their university, and assist with the promotion of study about and exchange with Florence, Italy and Sister County Commission Activities.

Please see official website for application details.

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