Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act of 2026

This bill establishes the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program by renaming the existing IDEAS Program and directing the Secretary of State to expand access to international study opportunities. The legislation creates a competitive grant system for colleges and universities to support students, with a specific focus on increasing participation among low-income students, students of color, and those attending minority-serving institutions. To achieve its goals, the program prioritizes funding for initiatives that include world language learning, safety measures, and study in developing nations, aiming to reach one million undergraduate students annually within ten years. Institutions receiving grants must submit detailed plans outlining how they will use the funds and demonstrate a commitment to sustaining these programs over time.