Global Respectful Disruption Initiative (GRDI) Scholarship Application
Applications are open and closes March 31, 2026 (11:59 PM EST) for Summer 2026 program participation.
About the Scholarship
Program Name: Global Respectful Disruption Initiative (GRDI) Scholarship
Organizers: Compear Global Education Network, GoAbroad.com, Kultural Kurators, Fund for Education Abroad
Supported by: The GRDI Steering Committee, a dedicated group of leaders advancing equity and inclusion in global education.
The GRDI Scholarship & Scholars Program is designed to empower individuals passionate about global education, intercultural leadership, and community development. This initiative values diverse perspectives in fostering transformative change.
As a GRDI Scholar, you will:
- Receive financial support for study, travel, internship abroad, or domestic intercultural programs.
- Gain access to mentorship and networking opportunities with global leaders.
- Engage in community interaction and leadership development.
- Join a movement committed to building a more just and equitable future.
Application and Review Process:
- Applications are reviewed by a team of volunteer reviewers, past scholars, and partners.
- Applicants must submit a response to a sponsor-provided prompt on social justice and community development.
- Application Timeline: Opens January 20, 2026 – closes March 31, 2026 (11:59 PM EST) for Summer 2025 program participation.
- Award Notification: Recipients will be announced by April 15, 2026.
Financial Support:
- The GRDI Scholarship provides financial support ranging from $1,500 to $3,000.
- Funds can be used for program fees, travel, housing, or other approved expenses.
Empowerment Through Inspiration:
Recipients will receive notes of encouragement and wisdom from past participants and mentors, aimed at inspiring resilience and impactful changes.
Active Participation:
Scholarship recipients will be invited to our annual virtual Global Respectful Disruption Summit. Attendance is complimentary, and it’s an opportunity to share your interpretation of ‘Respectful Disruption’ through various mediums like videos, essays, songs, or art.
Becoming a Part of GRDI
As a GRDI Scholar, you will:
✔ Join a global network of changemakers dedicated to fostering social justice and positive change.
✔ Gain mentorship and leadership development from professionals working in global education as co-constructors.
✔ Receive digital badge of completion and recognition as a GRDI Scholar for your commitment to intercultural learning and activism.
Eligibility Requirements for the GRDI Scholarship
- Acceptance into a Program
- Must be accepted into a study, travel, internship abroad, or a domestic intercultural program.
- Proof of Acceptance
- Upload a legible copy of your acceptance letter, which must include:
- Your name
- Program details (location, dates, and organization)
- Upload a legible copy of your acceptance letter, which must include:
- No GPA Requirement
- The scholarship does not consider GPA as part of the selection process.
- Residency Requirement
- Must have a current U.S. address (residency required).
- Age Requirement
- Open to applicants 18 years and older (no upper age limit).
How to Apply
Opens January 20, 2026 and closes March 31, 2026 (11:59 PM EST) for Summer 2026 program participation.
Choose ONE submission format to answer the 2026 Scholarship Prompt:
- 500-word Essay
- 5-minute Video
- Creative Project (i.e. art, poem, song)
2026 Scholarship Prompt Sponsored by Kultural Kurators.
2026 Scholarship Application Plain Text Guide (Linked here)
Questions?
📩 Contact us at GRDI@compear.org for more information.