Honors Travel Abroad Grant (HTAG)

Current MHC scholars who are good standing and are making satisfactory progress in the MHC curriculum are eligible to apply after they have submitted their study abroad application through WKU Global. 

Note 1: Students who are on warning but not dismissed from the MHC may still apply, however, students in good standing will be given priority.

Note 2: Should a student choose to withdraw from the Mahurin Honors College (MHC) the MHC reserves the right to rescind any financial awards or funding previously granted in connection with their participation in the program.

HTAGs are competitive awards based on the quality of the application and the following criteria:

• credits being earned on study abroad
• length of the program
• GPA, number of honors credits completed and credits in progress
• financial need
• the strength of the essay expressing how this program is related to academic goals
• evidence that the applicant has sought other sources of funding
• available funds

To maximize their funding potential, scholars are encouraged to review the rubric used by the Honors Development Board before submitting their applications.

The maximum amount awarded through an HTAG is based on the program duration and number of credit hours to be earned. At times, additional funding is made available through private donors. Additional funding may be available and if so will be awarded based on the criteria listed above. 

Maximum Funding Amounts:

• Programs of 3-6 credits: $500
• Programs of 7-11 credits: $750
• Programs of 12-21 credits: $1000
• Programs of 22 or more credits: $2000

Scholars are encouraged to seek other sources of funding for their study abroad course, such as the WorldTopper Scholarship (sponsored by the Study Abroad Office), their home department and college, Phi Kappa Phi, Golden Key, and Phi Eta Sigma. Additionally, the Office of Scholar Development (OSD) mentors students applying for nationally competitive scholarships for study abroad. Scholars eligible for the Gilman Scholarship, Fund for Education Abroad, or Freeman-ASIA are encouraged to connect with OSD to prepare strong applications.

The Honors Development Board will review applications between the dates listed below, as funding allows. 

• October 15: winter and spring programs
• March 1: summer and fall programs

Applications received after these dates will be reviewed as funding allows.

Applicants are notified of awards by email within a month of the application deadline.

Scholars who were awarded HTAG funding are expected to do the following:

• Submit photos and a brief reflection of the HTAGs impact;
• Successfully complete the MHC curriculum;
• Meet with an MHC advisor each semester; and
• Write a substantial thank you letter to donors for any private funds received. 

Requirement 1: Photos & Thank You Letter

• • Photos: Select three to five photos that capture representative moments of the HTAG-supported experience (scholar conducting research, traveling, doing fieldwork, delivering a paper, working with colleagues or mentors, visiting a unique destination, etc.). In a separate word document please describe the location and people appearing in each photo. 
  • Thank You Letter: In a separate word document, formatted as a business letter, describe why was this opportunity was important to your intellectual and personal growth and/or research.

Submit your photos, Word documents, and reflection essay by completing this form within a month of the conclusion of your HTAG-supported project. Failure to submit these required materials may affect your eligibility for future funding from the MHC. Be aware that the photos and information you submit will become the property of the MHC and may be used in online or print publications.