During the two-and-a-half to three years of Scholars’ Olmsted Experiences, they remain active duty military officers. They receive their regular compensation and benefits, including housing allowances, cost-of-living adjustments, and bonuses/incentive pay, if appropriate.
The Olmsted Foundation separately provides the financial support necessary for Scholars to fully immerse themselves in the language, culture and academic environment of their overseas location. Scholars are provided Annual Grants dedicated to funding Scholar local and regional travel as well as cultural immersion activities. In addition, the Foundation reimburses the Scholar for tuition to earn a master’s degree in liberal arts at a Foundation-approved overseas university of the Scholar’s choice.
For a more detailed review of Olmsted Foundation grants and reimbursable expenses, please visit our Grants & Reimbursable Expense Payment Policy page.
Most Scholars complete their language training at the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, CA, or at DLI-Washington, in the Washington, DC area. However, the Foundation also offers an In-Country Language Training Grant to cover language training options in country in lieu of DLI, should the Scholar desire and his or her military Service approve.
If space is available, many spouses are able to join Scholars at the Defense Language Institute prior to departure to their host country. Scholars are also provided a Spouse Language Training grant for use both in the United States and abroad to help offset the cost of their spouses’ language training.
The Foundation reimburses Scholars and spouses to attend its New Scholar Orientation program, held in early June each year.
On Thursday evening, the Foundation hosts an informal gathering where the new Scholars meet their fellow classmates and Olmsted Foundation staff. The following morning they attend informational sessions on all aspects of the Olmsted Scholar Program and the Olmsted Experience. Staff members also use this time to review the Foundation’s policies and expectations. Both Scholars and spouses attend breakout panels to hear from alumni Scholars and spouses about their first-hand experiences on the OSP. Finally, Scholars meet with representatives from their military Services to discuss the specific administrative requirements to support their Olmsted Experience.