Scholarships

Pathways to Scholarships and Success

Scholarships at the GAI

  1. Ted Taylor Lifetime Language Learner Scholarship
    Named in honor of Edward "Ted" Taylor—a passionate chemist and lifelong learner who began studying German at age 91—this scholarship supports students of all ages on their language journey. Each session, a limited number of full or partial scholarships are available for adult German classes and Samstagsschule (Saturday School) for kids. Recipients must attend at least 10 of the 12 class sessions to remain eligible for future awards. To apply, please complete and submit a scholarship application to Language Education.

  2. TCGIS Capstone Trip Scholarship
    The GAI offers partial, needs-based scholarships to support Twin Cities German Immersion School (TCGIS) students participating in the Capstone Trip. Interested students and parents must submit a scholarship application by November 30, 2025.

  3. Aspire Fund, Bridge to Learning Scholarship
    Open to all learners, this needs-based scholarship supports students passionate about learning German, regardless of age or level. Awards may cover full or partial tuition for continuing German language and culture experiences outside of the GAI. To apply, please complete and submit a scholarship application to Language Education.

  4. AATG Scholarship
    The Germanic-American Institute is accepting applications for scholarships for students participating in AATG German Study Program. The GAI is excited to help support this exciting endeavor for families and students who may need some financial assistance for their trip. We can offer partial scholarships depending on the family, their financial status, and motivation for the scholarship. Please submit the scholarship application by the deadline of December 8, 2025.

Ted Taylor Lifetime Learner Scholarship Program

Princeton chemist Edward Taylor, whose research into butterfly wing pigments led to the development of an important cancer-fighting drug, was known as an extraordinary scholar, teacher, mentor, and human being.

Ted joined the GAI in 2014 as a language student at the age of 91. He was still taking classes until shortly before he died at the age of 94. He truly embodied a Lifetime Learner. The GAI is deeply honored to help celebrate Ted’s legacy and generous spirit.

Thanks to a donation from the Rick and Susan Taylor Spielman Family Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation, the GAI is offering the Ted Taylor Lifetime Learner Scholarship Program.

Several students are selected each session to receive scholarships. Scholarships may cover the entire tuition for the course or part of it. This award is based on financial need and the student’s interest and goals in continuing to learn the German language. The student may be required to purchase the textbook for the course.