
Balkan Language Initiative (BLI)
Combining highly-individualized academic programming with structured overseas immersion, the Balkan Language Initiative (BLI) enables participants to make rapid gains in language proficiency and cultural knowledge while living and studying in Southeast Europe.
Program Features
Study the language and culture of one of six different Balkan countries. Languages offered include:
- Albanian in Tirana, Albania
- Bosnian in Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
- Bulgarian in Sofia, Bulgaria
- Macedonian in Skopje, Macedonia
- Serbian in Belgrade, Serbia and Podgorica, Montenegro
Available during Fall, Spring, Academic Year, and Summer (8 week) terms
15 – 18 hours per week of intensive coursework in the target language’s grammar, vocabulary, and phonetics. Advanced students may also study literature, history, politics, and regional studies in the target language
Participants earn 15-16 U.S. academic credits per semester (8-10 for summer) in the target language and regional studies through Bryn Mawr College
Housing with carefully-selected, experienced host families who provide two meals per day
Cultural activities & excursions provide participants with a deeper understanding of daily life, culture, and history in the host country
Comprehensive health, accident, and evacuation insurance for all participants abroad
Financial Aid
Financial aid from American Councils is available for BLI. Please visit www.studyabroad.americancouncils.org/financial-aid to learn more about available scholarships.
Eligibility Requirements
- 2 semesters of the target language or a related language
- Minimum 2.7 GPA
- At least 18 years old by application deadline
Application Deadlines
Summer programs: February 15
Fall / Academic Year programs: March 15
Spring programs: October 15
Interested in learning more?
Complete program information, including an online application, is available on the BLI website at
www.acstudyabroad.org/bli.
Read what past program participants have to say about their BLI experience on our
blog website. Check out our
Facebook,
Twitter, and
Instagram for pictures of participants on-program, study abroad articles, and more!
Questions?
Contact American Councils at
outbound@americancouncils.org