Scholarship FAQ

Seattle-Perugia Sister City Association strives to offer up to four scholarships each year to study Italian at the world-famous University for Foreigners (Università per Stranieri) in Perugia, Italy. The University for Foreigners, founded in 1921, is the oldest and most prestigious institution of its kind devoted to language and cultural studies for foreign students. More information can be found at: https://www.unistrapg.it

The following are frequently asked questions about the program:

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

Individuals who want to improve their Italian language skills and who want to experience the culture and life in one of Italy’s most beautiful and historic cities are ideal candidates for this scholarship. Applicants must be: a member of the Seattle-Perugia Sister City Association, at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen and have some basic knowledge of the Italian language. They also must commit to supporting our organization through volunteering to further our mission.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE SCHOLARSHIP AWARD?

The scholarship includes tuition for one month of study at the University and a stipend that can be used to defray travel or living expenses while abroad. In most cases, scholars can choose the month of study that works best for them.

WHEN ARE APPLICATIONS DUE?

Applications for 2023 scholarships were accepted February 15 to March 15; the application period is now closed for 2023.

HOW DO I APPLY?

Interested applicants must be SPSCA members. To apply, carefully read APPLICANT CRITERIA AND PROCESS, then complete the APPLICATION FORM (online or PDF version) and submit it via by the stated deadline. Details are provided on the aforementioned forms.

WHAT IS THE SELECTION PROCESS?

After reviewing all applications, the scholarship committee will select applicants to interview either in person or via Zoom. Following interviews, the committee will make a recommendation to the SPSCA Board for approval and then all candidates will be notified of the final selection as soon as possible.

IS THE SCHOLARSHIP / STIPEND TAXABLE?

Yes, the scholarship is taxable and must be included when the scholar reports gross income on their tax return. Once awarded a scholarship, the SPSCA will need the scholar’s legal name, address and social security number. This information will be used to prepare an IRS Form 1099-MISC for the taxable amount of the scholarship for the calendar year in which the tuition is paid. The scholarship itself is tax free (excludable from gross income) ONLY IF: the individual is a candidate for a degree and the degree program accepts this course as meeting the requirements for the degree, and the scholar provides to SPSCA written documentation of the acceptance. If the stipend is used to pay for room and board and living expenses, it is always taxable - no exception.

ARE THERE ANY EXPECTATIONS OF SCHOLARS AFTER THEIR SCHOLARSHIP AND STUDIES ARE COMPLETED?

Yes. Scholarship recipients are required to commit to supporting SPSCA through volunteer activities which may include serving on the Board, volunteering at events, supporting a specific committee, etc. Recipients are also expected to submit a short summary of their experience to be included on the SPSCA website and potentially also to be included in the SPSCA newsletter.

Questions? Write to: SPSCA Scholarships