Applications for the Global Foundation Scholars 2026–2027 Cohort Are Now Open!
Global Foundation Scholars is a Program of Distinction at Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU). This program provides a select group of students with a unique college experience through common coursework, living communities, and an opportunity to study abroad.
With the Global Foundation Scholars program, you will:
- Receive $1,200 to be used towards a Study Abroad opportunity or Alternative Breaks experiences after successful completion of first-year requirements.
- Be in two selective classes with other Global Foundation Scholars students during the fall and winter semesters of your first year.
- Receive priority registration for the 2027-2028 Academic Year.
- Be assigned an academic advisor to assist you with your progress toward graduation.
- Be offered extra-curricular activities and events (admission fees paid by the Global Foundation Scholars program).
- Be given the option to reside in the Global Foundation Scholars Living Community on SVSU's campus. We highly encourage you to live with the cohort if you plan to live on campus.
- Experience a retreat held before the start of the fall semester, during which you will be able to meet fellow students, upperclassmen, and staff.
To qualify to apply for the Global Foundation Scholars program you must:
- Be a graduating high school senior going into your first semester as a freshman at SVSU for the Fall 2026 semester.
- Have a minimum 3.5 cumulative high school GPA.
- Show demonstrated leadership and service in your high school and/or community.
- Be fully admitted to SVSU as an undergraduate.
To maintain your membership as a Global Foundation Scholar, you must:
- Be enrolled full-time during fall and winter semesters throughout your undergraduate degree at SVSU.
- Maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA.
- Attend regular meetings (as requested) with your academic advisor.
The selection process is competitive, and we accept a limited number of students each year. Once your application has been submitted and reviewed, you will be sent a letter informing you of whether or not you have been selected for the program.
For more information, contact Foundation Scholars Program Coordinator, Cody Alberts, at cdalbert@svsu.edu or (989) 964- 2167.
Global Foundations Scholar Frequently Asked Questions
Austin Urlaub ‘24 – 2020 Cohort
“Before being accepted into the Global Founders Scholars Program, I had never even dreamt of studying abroad due to the financial blockade. However, once I was accepted into this influential program, my eyes were opened to the endless possibilities this program has to offer. Not only did I have the opportunity to study abroad during the summer between my second and third year at SVSU, but I was also given the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone by attending culturally cultivating events on campus, take classes with like-minded individuals seeking global enrichment, and have the opportunity to register early for classes with the help of a dedicated advisor committed to my success.
I used my GFS scholarship on a Faculty-Led trip to arguably the most naturally beautiful county in South America, Costa Rica. While there, I improved my skills in Spanish, learned about their amazing culture, and was able to explore my own values, coming back with a deepened sense of purpose in my future as a Social Worker. Along the journey, I have found deep connections with fellow students and staff here at SVSU and bring a more culturally-aware mindset to the community through my role as the 2022-2023 Student Association President.”
Olivia Getzinger ‘23 – 2019 Cohort
“My first experience as a student at Saginaw Valley State University was through the Global Foundation Scholars program. I was able to attend the retreat in-person before my freshman year, this was an amazing experience because I was able to get to know students on campus and be more familiar with campus before the semester started. At the retreat, I learned of the study abroad trips through SVSU. The biology faculty-led trip to the Cayman Islands caught my eye because it was one of the only science-based trips and the location was gorgeous. Months later, I applied and was accepted for the next trip. During the pandemic, I maintained hope while the trip was postponed before departing June 2022.
On the trip, we filled our days with scuba diving on stunning coral reefs, learning about the local marine life and conservation, and exploring and learning the history of the Cayman Islands. We stayed on-site at the Central Caribbean Marine Institute; it was insightful to see how life was different there compared to here in Michigan and exciting to connect with people from all over the world. Without the encouragement and support from the Global Foundation Scholars Program, I am not sure if I would have had this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Now after the trip, I have a changed perspective on how I live my life, thinking about how my actions affect the environment along with some amazing friends and storied I have made in Little Cayman.”
CONTACT US.
Cody Alberts
Global Foundation Scholars Program Coordinator
Academic Advisement Center
Wickes Hall 123
cdalbert@svsu.edu
(989) 964-2167