FLAS FAQ
FLAS Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility
What level of Arabic, Hebrew, Persian, or Turkish must I take while receiving a FLAS?
You must be able to enroll in the intermediate level or higher in order to receive a FLAS. The only exception is graduate students who have already obtained proficiency in at least one Middle Eastern language, who may apply for a FLAS to study another Middle Eastern language at the beginner level.
Can I apply if I am fluent in the language for which I am seeking a FLAS?
You may apply, but the FLAS selection committee will assign the lowest priority to students who already possess language fluency equivalent to educated native speakers in the language for which the award is sought.
Why am I asked to provide financial information to determine eligibility for FLAS?
In addition to merit, the NRC-MENA considers financial need when selecting candidates. Applicants may be asked to provide additional financial information to OSFS to determine financial need.
Summer FLAS
What does a summer FLAS fellowship cover?
Summer FLAS provides up to $5,000 for tuition/fees at a program in the U.S. or abroad, plus a $3,500 stipend. Please note that the $5,000 award may ONLY be used for tuition and related fees. It may NOT be used to cover housing, transportation, or meals. If the program that you wish to attend gives a total cost that includes room and board, you will be asked to provide an itemized invoice. Anything that is not considered tuition/fees will be deducted from the stipend. For example, if a program costs $5,000 and of that amount $4,000 is for tuition/fees and $1,000 is for housing, $1,000 will be deducted from the stipend ($3,500) and you will only receive $2,500.
If the program fees are more than what FLAS covers, does my department or program need to agree to pay the difference?
No. Students are expected to cover additional tuition costs. However, FLAS recipients’ departments or programs are encouraged to support their students whenever possible, either by offering additional tuition support if the program expenses exceed $5,000, or by providing additional subsistence support to help cover the cost of airfare and living expenses.
What if my program costs less than $5,000? Can I use the additional funds for something else?
The $5,000 tuition award can only be used for tuition and fees. If the program provides options for additional tutoring, for example, it may be possible to use the funds for supplemental study. However, the leftover monies cannot be used for airfare, accommodations, or any non-tuition expenses.
What if the program that I wish to attend is shorter than six weeks and/or does not meet the required number of contact hours?
In certain circumstances and with prior approval, it is possible to supplement the program with an independent study or private tutoring to meet the requirement.
What if the program that I wish to attend is in a country with a State Department travel warning?
Because the FLAS Fellowship is awarded through Georgetown, students must adhere to GU’s policies regarding international travel. Students who wish to attend a program in a country with a travel warning must have their travel approved before the NRC-MENA can award the FLAS. More information about GU’s travel policies is available on the Office of Global Services website.
Can I attend a program for a Middle Eastern language other than Arabic, Hebrew, Persian, or Turkish?
Yes, as long as you study at the intermediate level or higher or you are a graduate student who already has advanced proficiency in another MENA language.