The Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) is a program funded by the U.S. Department of State aimed at expanding the number of Americans studying and mastering critical foreign languages. These languages are deemed essential for national security and economic competitiveness. The program offers fully-funded language immersion programs in various countries, allowing participants to enhance their language skills through intensive study and cultural experiences. CLS targets languages such as Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Korean, Persian, Russian, and Turkish, among others. The scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate students, providing them with opportunities to engage with native speakers and gain a deeper understanding of the culture associated with the language.