U.S. Scholar Application Deadline
2025-2026 COMPETITION | September 16, 2024 at 5:00 PM EST
The safety and security of exchange participants is a top priority for the U.S. Department of State. The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) and U.S. Embassies abroad, in cooperation with binational Fulbright Commissions and the Institute of International Education (IIE), make every effort to ensure that Fulbright scholars are provided necessary support in case of emergencies.
The Fulbright Program has several resources available to support Fulbrighters in case of emergencies:
ECA and IIE work closely with U.S. Embassies and Fulbright Commissions abroad to share information, monitor threats, develop strategies, and coordinate communication in a crisis. Fulbright scholars should be prepared for emergencies, which can occur without warning.
The primary emergency contact for Fulbrighters abroad is the U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Commission in the host country. IIE Advisors should also be notified as soon as possible if there is an emergency.
It is essential for U.S. Embassies/Commissions and IIE to be able to confirm the safety of Fulbright participants in emergency situations. Ensure that your local contact information and travel dates to and from the host country are up-to-date and are shared with relevant contacts, including host institution colleagues. Additionally, emergency contacts in the United States should have the contact information for the Fulbright program in your host country.
Remember to keep phone numbers and email addresses up-to-date in the IIE Participant Portal. You can also email your IIE Advisor with any updates.
Fulbrighters should be prepared for emergencies, which can occur without warning (e.g. natural disasters, disease, crime, civil unrest, etc.).
In case of medical evacuation:
Additional Resources and Scenarios:
Reminder: a completed medical form and medical clearance is required before starting your Fulbright program
Review COVID-19 Travel Recommendations by Country (CDC)
Follow local health guidance and regulations
Wash hands frequently, bring hand sanitizer and avoid contact with those who are sick. Consider wearing a mask, and follow all local public health guidelines concerning disease mitigation.
Consult with your healthcare provider and insurance plan before traveling
Assess local resources at your host institution and in your host country
Utilize ASPE ASSIST (details above and below) as needed
Resources for Family Members:
Family members can contact the U.S. Department of State’s Overseas Citizens Services at any time regarding a Fulbright grantee abroad.
Fulbright participants receive a health care benefit under the Department of State Group Accident & Sickness Program for Exchanges (ASPE). ASPE is a health benefit program for the participant only; it is not an all-purpose health insurance, and it is subject to limitations.
Grantees needing assistance with emergency as well as routine medical and dental services are advised to contact Seven Corners, the ASPE administrator for ECA’s health benefit program, which can be reached around the clock worldwide for emergency needs.
ASPE ASSIST Support Hotline: This 24-hour hotline is a mental health resource for U.S. Fulbrighters overseas, providing immediate, professional help with virtually any type of personal concern or problem that participants may experience. ASPE Assist can be reached any time at +1-813-963-1269 or +44-20-3859-4463 and offers confidential counseling for urgent and non-urgent situations and support service for grantees experiencing crisis.
Email: ASPESupport@anvilgroup.com
If you are the victim of sexual or physical assault, or harassment, please contact the Commission or U.S. Embassy in your host country as soon as it is safe to do so. They will guide you through the procedures needed to ensure your safety and advise you about your legal rights and how best to preserve the option to prosecute. You may also reach out to ASPE ASSIST counsellors who are able to provide on-the-spot advice and support to Fulbrighters in urgent and non-urgent situations. As ASPE ASSIST is a confidential service, you may also want to advise your point of contact at the Commission or U.S. Embassy, and/or your IIE Advisor.
It can also be challenging to mitigate harassment while overseas, due to language barriers, new surroundings, and lack of familiar cultural signals and cues. Here are some tips for Fulbright scholars:
The U.S. Department of State strives to ensure a reflection of the diversity of U.S. society abroad. Fulbright opportunities are open to people regardless of their race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, geographic location, socioeconomic status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. See ECA’s full diversity statement here.
ECA's Pre-Departure Resources page on Identity Abroad hosts resources and testimonials related to a variety of identities. All U.S. Scholars have access to the Pre-Departure Resources; if you do not have the password, please contact your IIE Advisor.
Gender:
Local attitudes may differ towards gender. It is important to be aware of the cultural nuances related to gender and gender roles in your host country, and be prepared on how gender identity may impact your Fulbright experience.
LGBTQIA+:
Local attitudes and laws towards individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender differ around the world. Fulbright participants should research the host country prior to their departure from the United States.
Mobility and Accessibility:
While the Fulbright Program offers accommodations for Fulbrighters with disabilities, some host countries may not be as accessible for grantees who have a physical disability, and stigma may differ from one location to another. For example, countries may not have the infrastructure to accommodate wheelchairs on sidewalks or legally require accommodations for persons with disabilities. It is important to research the host country to ensure accessibility and safety measures are met.
Race and Ethnicity:
Local attitudes towards race and ethnicity differ widely and will largely depend on whether your racial and ethnic identity is a majority or minority group in the host country. It is advised that you research how your racial, ethnic, and cultural identities are perceived in your host country to understand how existing racial and identity dynamics may impact your Fulbright experience.
The following resources may be helpful:
Fulbright U.S. Scholars are encouraged to join the Fulbrighter networking platform, an exclusive online community that allows current and past participants from the many components of the Fulbright Program to engage, collaborate, and connect with each other. For more information, and to register, please visit the official website: fulbrighternetwork.com
More specific information on your host country may be offered on the Department of State International Travel website under the safety and security section.
If you encounter any problems, contact the Fulbright Commission and/or U.S. Embassy in your host country, ASPE Assist, and/or your IIE Advisor as soon as it is safe to do so.
We recommend that Fulbright U.S. Scholar Participants download and print this important contact card to easily reference while on your Fulbright.