International Studies in Higher Education Act of 2003

The International Studies in Higher Education Act of 2003 (H.R. 3077) updates and extends federal funding for international education and foreign language programs at American colleges and universities through 2009. The bill focuses on strengthening national security and homeland security by increasing the number of citizens trained in foreign languages and international affairs, particularly in languages deemed critical to national interests.

For students and educators, the bill expands opportunities for study abroad, provides grants for undergraduate international studies, and creates the "Ralph J. Bunche Fellows" program for internships in international service. It also aims to make these programs more inclusive by offering financial waivers to Minority-Serving Institutions and Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Additionally, the legislation establishes an independent International Education Advisory Board to ensure these academic programs align with the nation's needs in diplomacy and security.