What does Preamble of Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act of 2026 do?

This bill aims to increase the number of students graduating college with international knowledge and experience. The bill establishes the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program in the Department of State. The program's goal is to prepare students for success in the global economy.

What does SHORT TITLE. of Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act of 2026 do?

This bill is formally titled the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act of 2026.

What does FINDINGS. of Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act of 2026 do?

This section outlines findings related to study abroad programs for U.S. college students. It asserts that study abroad opportunities should be included in a well-rounded education to prepare students for the global economy. Currently, only 10% of U.S. college students study abroad, with minority students, first-generation students, community college students, and students with disabilities being particularly underrepresented. The Lincoln Commission, established in 2004, recommended expanding study abroad opportunities, especially in developing nations. The Commission emphasized the importance of administrative and faculty leadership in promoting study abroad. Student health, safety, and security are identified as priorities for institutions and programs. Study abroad participation significantly decreased during the 2020-2021 academic year and has not fully recovered. Increasing access to study abroad is deemed critical for students to gain skills and experiences needed to address global challenges and succeed in the global economy.

What does PURPOSES. of Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act of 2026 do?

This Act aims to increase access to quality study abroad opportunities The Act focuses on low-income students and students of color It seeks to reflect the diversity of US students and institutions The Act encourages study abroad in nontraditional destinations It promotes a greater commitment to expand study abroad opportunities

What does SENATOR PAUL SIMON STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM. of Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act of 2026 do?

This section establishes the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program. The program's objectives include increasing the number of U.S. undergraduate students studying abroad to at least 1,000,000 annually within 10 years. The program aims to increase participation from underrepresented groups to reflect the demographics of the U.S. undergraduate population. It also seeks to increase study abroad opportunities in nontraditional destinations, particularly in developing countries. The Secretary of State will award competitive grants to institutions of higher education, either individually or as part of a consortium, to achieve these objectives. Priority for grants may be given to minority-serving institutions, institutions qualifying for the Strengthening Institutions Program, and those offering study abroad programs with a significant world language learning component. The Secretary of State is directed to take into account recommendations from the Lincoln Commission, emphasizing student cost support, diversity, and quality control. The Secretary of State must consult with diverse institutions and educational policy organizations in implementing the program.

Back to bills

Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act of 2026

Last updated: 5/14/2026 · Introduced: 5/14/2026

Author: Richard Durbin (D-IL)

TL;DR (AI)

The Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program aims to increase the number of U.S. undergraduate students studying abroad to at least 1,000,000 annually within 10 years.
The program seeks to increase participation from underrepresented groups, including low-income students and students of color, to reflect the demographics of the U.S. undergraduate population.
The Secretary of State will award competitive grants to institutions of higher education to achieve the program's objectives, with priority given to minority-serving institutions and those offering study abroad programs with a significant world language learning component.

119th Congressin committeeHR. 8834(In Committee)Official page

Verified Votes

No verified votes yet.

Community Votes

No community votes yet. Be the first!

Voting as guest · Sign in for verified votes

Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 3 more.

5 sections

Click "Show details" to explore individual sections. Use the community vote above or visit All Sections to vote per section.

Read official text

Want the full experience?

Create a free account to cast verified votes on each section, get a personalized summary, and track your voting history.

Create Free Account