In a significant move to advance smart agriculture and foster international collaboration, Romblon State University and the Dalhousie University – Faculty of Agriculture inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) last July 19, 2024, at Dalhousie University’s Halifax Campus. The MOU was signed by RSU President, Dr. Merian P. Catajay Mani and Mr. Matt Hebb, Vice President of the Government and Global Relations at Dalhousie University.
Witnessing the momentous occasion were Congressman Eleandro Jesus F. Madrona, Representative of the Lone District of Romblon, and Her Excellency Maria Andrelita S. Austria, Ambassador of the Philippines to Canada, along with other representatives from RSU, Dalhousie University, and the Nova Scotia – Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.
This MOU marks a new chapter in the ongoing collaboration between RSU and Dalhousie University, focusing initially on the field of smart agriculture. The agreement outlines a commitment from both institutions to cooperate in the development of smart agriculture initiatives at RSU and the province of Romblon at large.
This strategic partnership not only strengthens the academic ties between RSU and Dalhousie, but also represents a significant milestone following RSU’s prior engagement with Canadian Higher Education Institutions at the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) Conference held in Vancouver last November 2023. This initial engagement was made possible through the initiative of the Commission on Higher Education – International Affairs Service, led by Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, as well as Ms. Angel Cachuela, Trade Commissioner of Embassy of Canada – Manila, who facilitated that matching process that led to RSU and Dalhousie’s first meeting. This mission would have also not been possible without the unwavering support of CHED Chairmain, Dr. J. Prospero “Popoy” E. De Vera III.
In its commitment to academic excellence, internationalization, and sustainability, RSU and Dalhousie are set to embark on a collaborative journey that promises to bring innovation, sustainability, and growth to the field of agriculture and fisheries, ultimately benefiting communities in both the Romblon and Nova Scotia.
Romblon State University has taken a significant step towards internationalization with its successful partnership mission to Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Agriculture in Nova Scotia, Canada last July 13-22, 2024, wherein they benchmarked smart agriculture practices with the main objective of establishing RSU as a center of excellence in the field of Agriculture.
The delegation was composed of Hon. Congressman Eleandro Jesus “Budoy” F. Madrona; Hon. Mayor Lisette M. Arboleda; RSU President Merian P. Catajay Mani; VP Tomas T. Faminial; VP Emelyn F. Montoya; VP Eddie G. Fetalvero; Atty. Glenn Niño M. Sartillo; Dr. Gianinna Elaine M. Labicane, Mr. Jayson Reeves C. Mani; Mr. JRden F. Fadallan; Dr. Alfredo F. Fortu Jr., Dean of the College of Agriculture, Forestry and Environmental Sciences; Dr. Rey P. Rasgo, RSU Sta. Fe Campus Director; Mr. Elisha Danne D. Gabinete, a BS Agriculture student and Ms. Danielle S. Geguillan, a BS Fisheries student.
On the first day of the partnership mission, the delegation met with key officials from the Dalhousie University – Faculty of Agriculture to discuss international cooperation, technical assistance services, student and faculty mobility and exchange, and joint programming, setting the stage for a collaborative and mutually beneficial partnership between the two institutions.
The officials RSU engaged with during this initial meeting were: • Dr. Gefu Wang-Pruski, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture • Dr. Dian Patterson, Associate Dean Academic • Dr. Miriam Gordon, Assistant Dean International • Dr. Balakrishnan Prithiviraj, Assistant Vice President, Government & Global Relations • Mike McConkey, Project and Finance Manager, Farm; • Lana Bos, Manager, International; and, • David Parks, Projects & Partnerships Coordinator, International.
The delegation also engaged in a series of meetings and visits to Dalhousie University’s state-of-the-art agricultural facilities. They explored the latest advancements in precision farming, sustainable agriculture, and digital tools for farm management, allowing them to gain valuable insights into the implementation of smart agriculture techniques, which are poised to revolutionize farming practices not only within RSU, but at the province of Romblon as a whole.
Dr. Emelyn F. Montoya, RSU’s Vice President for Academic Affairs and Hon. Mayor Lisette M. Arboleda of the Municipality of Looc, Romblon, also visited Dalhousie University’s Halifax Campus to benchmark the University’s Nursing program in alignment with RSU’s intention to set up its own allied medicine programs in the near future, thereby expanding its academic offerings and addressing healthcare needs in Romblon.
The delegation also visited Dalhousie University’s industry partners, including Scotian Gold, Luckett Vineyards, Dykeview Farm, and Cornwallis Farm. These visits provided valuable insights into not only the integration of smart technologies in various agricultural settings, but Dal’s unique contributions to its partners within the local community.
The delegation also had the privilege of meeting several prominent figures, including Member of Parliament (MP) Kody Blois, Chair of the Standing Committee on Agriculture; and MP Stephen Douglas Ellis of Cumberland—Colchester.
The delegation was also graciously welcomed in Nova Scotia’s Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, where they had the privilege of engaging with Her Excellency Maria Andrelita S. Austria, Ambassador of the Philippines to Canada. Also in this courtesy meeting were Ms. Myca Magnolia Maog Fischer, Deputy Head of Mission of the Philippines Embassy; Ms. Connie Lacson, Honorary Consul of the Philippines in Nova Scotia; Ms. Tracey Taweel, Executive Deputy Minister; Ryan Grant, Deputy Minister Advanced Education; and Kathlene Farrell, Department of Intergovernmental Affairs.
The mission culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between RSU and the Dalhousie University- Faculty of Agriculture, formalizing their partnership and paving the way for future collaborations between the institutions. The MOU outlines plans for joint projects, faculty and student exchanges, and the development of curriculum modules focused on smart agriculture that are responsive to the pressing needs of the industry.
This partnership mission was generously funded by the Office of Congressman Eleandro Jesus F. Madrona — a testament to his unwavering support for quality education as the “Father of Romblon State University”, as well as his commitment to ensure food security and sustainability in the province of Romblon through cutting-edge agricultural practices. His commitment to fostering academic excellence and sustainable development in the region has been instrumental in making this mission a reality.
This initiative is a direct result of RSU’s previous engagement with Canadian Higher Education Institutions during the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) conference held in Vancouver last November 2023. Earlier this year, representatives from Dalhousie University visited RSU to gain an extensive understanding of RSU’s agricultural context and identify key areas of partnership between the institutions.
This successful partnership mission marks a new chapter in RSU’s journey towards internationalization, academic excellence and community empowerment. As RSU moves forward with its vision of becoming a smart agriculture hub in the region, the knowledge and partnerships gained from this mission leverages RSU to implement innovative agricultural practices, enhance academic programs, and contribute to the sustainable development of Romblon’s agricultural sector and in promotion of the province’s agriecotourism.
In a significant move to advance smart agriculture and foster international collaboration, Romblon State University and the Dalhousie University – Faculty of Agriculture inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) last July 19, 2024, at Dalhousie University’s Halifax Campus. The MOU was signed by RSU President, Dr. Merian P. Catajay Mani and Mr. Matt Hebb, Vice President of the Government and Global Relations at Dalhousie University.
Witnessing the momentous occasion were Congressman Eleandro Jesus F. Madrona, Representative of the Lone District of Romblon, and Her Excellency Maria Andrelita S. Austria, Ambassador of the Philippines to Canada, along with other representatives from RSU, Dalhousie University, and the Nova Scotia – Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.
This MOU marks a new chapter in the ongoing collaboration between RSU and Dalhousie University, focusing initially on the field of smart agriculture. The agreement outlines a commitment from both institutions to cooperate in the development of smart agriculture initiatives at RSU and the province of Romblon at large.
This strategic partnership not only strengthens the academic ties between RSU and Dalhousie, but also represents a significant milestone following RSU’s prior engagement with Canadian Higher Education Institutions at the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) Conference held in Vancouver last November 2023. This initial engagement was made possible through the initiative of the Commission on Higher Education – International Affairs Service, led by Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, as well as Ms. Angel Cachuela, Trade Commissioner of Embassy of Canada – Manila, who facilitated that matching process that led to RSU and Dalhousie’s first meeting. This mission would have also not been possible without the unwavering support of CHED Chairmain, Dr. J. Prospero “Popoy” E. De Vera III.
In its commitment to academic excellence, internationalization, and sustainability, RSU and Dalhousie are set to embark on a collaborative journey that promises to bring innovation, sustainability, and growth to the field of agriculture and fisheries, ultimately benefiting communities in both the Romblon and Nova Scotia.
Posted on
Korea University International Summer Campus
Korea University International Summer Campus (KU ISC) provides an excellent opportunity for students to learn about Korea through academic and cultural immersion during the summer months. It offers one semester’s load of work condensed into six weeks and four weeks, during which renowned academics teach both domestic and international students. This program is open to current college students who wish to study in Korea but may not be able to do so during the regular academic year.
DEADLINE OF APPLICATION: May 15, 2024
DURATION OF THE KU-ISC PROGRAMS
6-week Programs:June 26-August 1, 2024
4-week Programs: June 26-July 18, 2024
Eligibility
Required Documents
Application Procedure
Students currently enrolled in a college/university
(College/university freshmen can apply for KU ISC without GPA restriction)
Graduated students can apply for KU ISC in specific cases. Please contact us in advance.
Official Copy of Academic Transcript (certified proof of enrollment for freshmen)
Proof of Health Insurance (Any type that covers your stay in Korea)
Copy of Student ID or Passport
If you need Student VISA to enter Korea, please visit VISA & Insurance menu
If you receive an Exchange Nomination from your school, you may be eligible for exemptions from certain processes. In such cases, please send us an email after submitting your application.
Posted on
Australia Awards Scholarships 2025 Intake
Australia Awards scholarships provide citizens of the Philippines with the opportunity to obtain a qualification at an Australian tertiary institution.
Application dates
For study commencing in Australia in 2025:
Opening date: 1 February 2024
Closing date: 30 April 2024 (11:59PM AEST)
Applications and/or supporting documents received after the closing date will not be considered.
Application Process
Selection Process
Preparatory Training
Online applications
All applications must be lodged online at australiaawardsphilippines.org.
Supporting documents
Applicants must submit all the relevant supporting documents listed in the Australia Awards Scholarships Policy Handbook and the following documents to meet the specific requirements for the Philippines:
REAP: Outlines a project, which applies the knowledge and skills gained from the applicant’s Australian education and training towards Philippine development
Affidavit of citizenship and residency
Certification of Grade Point Average/General Weighted Average
(For targeted category applicants:) Letter from the agency head endorsing the scholarship application and the minutes of meeting of the scholarship committee endorsing the nominees.
Applications will be shortlisted after eligibility checking.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
The selection process includes an interview. Applicants will be assessed against the following criteria:
Academic competence
Potential outcomes, specifically the contribution to Philippine development through the REAP; and
Professional and personal leadership attributes including relevant work experience.
Successful candidates will be notified in mid-2024.
Awardee travel is subject to meeting the requirements of the Australian Government, as determined by the Department of Home Affairs, Department of Education and by the relevant Australian State or Territory governments.
Successful applicants will be required to attend:
course counselling
pre-departure briefing
university’s Introductory Academic Program,
other required preparatory study on arrival in Australia.
The Hybrid Asia Exploration (HAx) 2024 which will be held on 14 June – 5 July 2024 (online) and 13 – 19 September 2024 (hybrid) in Surabaya, Indonesia. The host universities are 6 prominent universities in Asia:
Shibaura Institute of Technology, Japan
Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember, Indonesia
Universiti Malaysia Perlis, Malaysia
Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Malaysia
King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Thailand
Cebu Technological University, the Philippines
In order to nurture Asian talents,this course will provide opportunities to study cultures and technologies from 6 universities. in 5 countries (Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand,Malaysia, and Japan). Participants will develop technical knowledge, application methods, and teamwork spirit through lectures and group activities.
Important Dates:
15 May 2024Deadline of Screening (RSU)*
7 June 2024 Deadline of Registration
14 June – 5 July 2024 Online Program
16 – 17 September 2024 Hybrid Classes
13 – 19 September 2024 Onsite Program
NOTE: Romblon State University (RSU) will be conducting a screening procedure to select 20 qualified participants to represent our university at the Hybrid Asia Exploration 2024. Interested applicants are encouraged to answer the Google Form provided to be included in the list of short-listed applicants.
Certificate of Completion course, with the following details:
- Those who satisfy the following requirements will receive a Certificate of Completion and a transcript.
- More than 80% attendance during online meetings, full attendance during hybrid activities and submission of all assignments.
Certificate of Attendance course, with the following details:
- Those who satisfy the following requirements will receive a Certificate of Attendance.
- More than 80% attendance during online meetings and submission of all assignments.
Online classes is free
For onsite activities, ITS will cover accommodation, meals during program, and intercity transportation for the onsite program (110 slots are available). Flight ticket, travel insurance and visa fee (if any) needs to be born by the students, as well as the following additional fee:
- Without Bromo Trip : USD 60
- With Bromo Trip : USD 180
Open for all university students. Limited only 20 participants per university
Being recommended by the International Office of Home University or Home Institution (template is provided here: https://its.id/HAx2024Material)
Recommendation letter
Scan/photo of passport or student ID from your university
Please prepare all the required documents in hand prior to this online registration. All documents must be in PDF/JPEG format.
Please name your documents with format [University]_[Name]_[Department]_[File Type]. For example ITS_Mike_Electrical Engineering_Recommendation Letter.
Please be advised that incomplete document submission will not be further processed. Your registration information could be shared amongst 6 hosting universities, while your privacy is totally protected.
Looking forward to receiving your application!
Posted on
PHILFRANCE Master Program 2025
The PhilFrance Master (formerly known as PhilFrance) is a comprehensive scholarship destined for the next generation of Filipino leaders with strong academic, leadership and professional abilities. All applications from master’s degree students from any study field, registered in either public and private establishments are eligible!
A monthly stipend of EUR 860 regardless of city of residence
Coverage of enrolment fees for master’s programs under the jurisdiction of the Ministry for Higher Education (Diplôme National) up to EUR 3,770 per academic year (frais d’inscription). Other costs distinct from the frais d’inscription (such as frais de formation, purchases of educational resources, pedagogical activity fees, etc.) will be shouldered by the grantee.
Exemption from the CVEC (after obtention of certificate of exemption)
A healthcare package consisting of social security coverage and supplementary insurance (mutuelle)
Possibility of obtaining student accommodations at a preferential rate, notably in accessing CROUS student housing services
Discounted rates for cultural activities organized by Campus France
Economy class ticket from Manila to the French city of destination, including a return ticket of the same class upon completion of the study program. Taxi and shuttle fares, as well as public transport fees are not covered.
Exemption from long-stay student visa fees (distinct from TLS Contact processing fee)
Applicants must be:
Filipino citizens residing in the Philippines at the time of application
Graduates or graduating students of a Philippine Higher Education Institution
College students must have completed their undergraduate programs by September in the intended year of studies for master’s.
Eligible programs:
Any full-time, on-site degree offered in a French higher education institution that issues a master’s degree upon its conclusion is eligible.
Study Program:
100% on-site, master’s programs that lead to the obtention of a Diplome National or a state diploma.
Note that not all programs offered in public institutions result in a Diplôme National.
There are different ways of identifying whether your desired master’s is eligible:
All programs listed on MonMaster are eligible, albeit not always taught in English. Non-francophone applicants must consult the course outline or dedicated program page to verify its medium of instruction. A guide on the MonMaster platform is available on the FAQ & Resources page.
The Taught in English catalog allows students to search state diploma programs. Selecting the [National Diploma] and [National Fees] in the search engine parameters produces a list of eligible programs.
When in doubt, send an e-mail to the local Campus France office for help in determining a study program’s status.
Language of instruction: English, French, or both
Duration: 18 to 24 months (including mandatory internship) beginning in academic year 2024
The following programs are NOT ELIGIBLE:
Programs offered in international schools based in France
Programs offered in international campuses of French schools
Dual diploma and joint master’s degrees
Vocational and technical courses (culinary arts short courses, fashion design workshop, etc.)
Please note that all submitted documents, except for the academic essay, must be in either PDF or image format. Submissions are done entirely online and any submissions delivered to the Embassy of France or the Campus France office will not be entertained.
Personal Documents
A one-page CV summarizing your academic, professional, and leadership experience
An academic essay no longer than 500 words detailing why you wish to study in France, as well as how your experience and degree will benefit the Philippines and Filipino society
Essays exceeding the word limit will be disregarded
Please note that we are requesting an academic essay and not a cover or motivation letter
A complete, official copy of your most recent academic transcripts
Proof of financial resources, such as:
Bank statements
Bank certificates
Most recent Income Tax Return statement
French Program Details
Proof of completed application to the selected degree/French HEI
Screenshot/s of completed online application via school website or portal
Screenshot/s of official admission document or e-mail
Scan of mailed admission letter
Study plan, curriculum, or academic calendar of the chosen program
Commonly available on the school’s website or upon request at your HEI’s admissions office
Optional Documents
For programs taught partially or entirely in French, proof of French proficiency corresponding to the level required by the study program (at least B2)
DELF/DALF
TEF/TCF results
Letter from recognized French language instructor
If applicable, letter/s of acceptance, proof of application to other scholarship programs that are not classified as Scholarships from the French Government (Bourse du Gouvernement Français – BGF)
2025 Japanese Government Scholarship Program (MEXT)
This scholarship offers applicants the opportunity to spend at least 18 or 24 months conducting independent research under a Japanese professor. Any field of study is eligible for the scholarship, but applicants must find a Japanese professor willing to supervise their research.
Applicants are advised to check the websites of Japanese universities to look for professors under their desired field of study. However, this does not guarantee that the applicant will be placed with that professor. Applicants are allowed to contact the professors directly when they pass the first selection.
Applicants must have been born on or after April 2, 1990.
Applicants must be university or college graduates.
Applicants must intend to continue a course of study previously begun, i.e. shall not begin study in a field new to the applicant.
After passing the first selection process, applicants must gain a “Letter of Provisional Acceptance” from a Japanese professor who is willing to supervise the study of the study.
If the host university deems it necessary, the applicants may learn and receive instruction in the Japanese language.the applicant.
Before applying for this scholarship, please ensure that you will be able to complete any pending obligations (e.g., return service) towards your employer, educational institution, or other relevant institutions before April 2025.
All submitted documents WILL NOT BE RETURNED. Should you foresee the necessity of keeping a copy of the requirements for your own purpose, it should be done BEFORE submission of documents. To signify that you accept and agree to this rule, please include the Agreement on Document Submission when you send your application. Applications which do not have this agreement will not be assessed during the document screening.
For the set of original documents, only originals or certified true copies of the Academic Transcript of Records and Certificates of graduation of school/university may be submitted. Notarized documents will also be accepted. Please ensure that information on certified documents can be clearly read. Furthermore, if the document is in a language other than English or Japanese, please provide a translation from the school/university.
CERTIFICATE OF HEALTH - The medical check-up may be undertaken in ANY hospital or health institution, as long as the prescribed form is used . Please ask the doctor to completely fill in all the required data, including their name and the complete address of the medical institution. Having incomplete data may affect your scholarship application. As much as possible, please ask the doctor to sign the form with their wet signature.
CERTIFICATE OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY – All applicants must submit a document attesting to their proficiency in the English language. Apart from certificates of reputable English proficiency tests (e.g., TOEIC, TOEFL, IELTS), a certificate indicating “English is the medium of instruction” issued by the school or university most recently attended by the applicant is also acceptable.
CERTIFICATE OF JAPANESE LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY – Certificates and scores from Japanese proficiency exams such as the JLPT, JFT-Basic, Japanese NAT-TEST, and other similar exams are acceptable for this requirement. Certificates of completion of Japanese language courses will not be accepted.
RECOMMENDATION LETTER – Letters with the wet signature of the recommender are most appreciated. If it is not possible for the recommender to physically sign the letter, the applicant may submit a notarized copy of the recommendation letter with an e-signature. Alternatively, the email thread indicating the request for the recommendation letter and the recommender’s response can also be included with the actual letter. Physically signed letters must be placed in sealed letter envelopes.
Please follow the number of copies for each document stated in the guidelines. For example, if the list asks for 1 original and 1 copy and the applicant is unable to give the original, 2 copies (1 certified true copy and 1 photocopy) of the document must be submitted. Only those with complete application documents will be assessed for the document screening.
Number the documents in the right upper corner according to their number on the list and remove all staple wires from documents. As much as possible, place all your documents in a single envelope or folder arranged according to the list. For easier checking of documents, please use paper clips or binder clips to divide documents per set. (One set consists of one original or copy of all documents listed in the guidelines. Separate the originals and the copies and arrange by number.)
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted to take the exams and interview. In accordance with MEXT regulations, candidates will have to take the exam in person at the Japanese Embassy in Pasay City. The interview may be conducted online or in person at the Embassy of Japan.
Due to the huge volume of applications received every year, we are unable to confirm receipt of documents from each applicant. Please check with your courier service provider on how you can verify delivery/receipt of your documents. Inquiries on application status will not be entertained.
Please mail your application package to the following address on or before the indicated deadline date below. Late applications WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
Attn: MEXT Scholarship Program (RESEARCH CATEGORY) Japan Information and Culture Center Embassy of Japan 2627 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City 1300
NOTE:
In case the courier service asks for a specific point of contact, please show them this specific instruction. The Embassy is able to receive packages as long as the address is written correctly, like the one shown above.
For documents to be sent using a same-day courier service, the JICC will receive documents only on weekdays (except holidays) from 8:30am to 12:30pm, and 1:30pm to 4:45pm. The Embassy reserves the right to decline documents that arrive beyond the stated deadline and timeframe.
For documents to be sent using a later-date courier service (e.g. LBC, JR Express), the JICC will accept documents that were marked as sent on or before May 24, 2024.
Posted on
Fall 2024 YSEALI Academic Fellowship
The YSEALI Academic Fellowship is an intensive short-term academic program whose purpose is to provide groups of young leaders with a deeper understanding of the United States and a particular theme, while simultaneously enhancing their leadership skills.
Application and Fellowship Timeline
May 1, 2024 11:59 PM, Philippine Standard Time, Deadline of application.
May 2024: Notification of shortlisted applicants.
June – July 2024: Announcement of results.
Between August-November 2024: Academic Fellowship Program.
Qualifications
Candidate Description
Other Essential Program Information
Between the ages of 18 and 25 at the time of application, although exceptional applicants over 25 may be considered if they meet all other eligibility requirements
A citizen of the Philippines
A resident of the Philippines
A full-time undergraduate student from college, university, or other institutions of higher learning; or graduated in the past four years
Proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English
Not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States
Not employees or immediate family members of employees of the U.S. Government (including a U.S. embassy or consulate, USAID, or other U.S. Government entity);
Not alumni of the YSEALI academic fellowship (including the hybrid program)
Demonstrate interest, knowledge, or professional experience in Civic Engagement, Environmental Issues, or Social Entrepreneurship and Economic Development
Demonstrate strong leadership qualities and potential in their university, place of work, and/or community
Demonstrate a commitment or interest in community service, volunteerism, or mentorship
Indicate a serious interest in learning about the United States and Southeast Asia as a region
Be willing to actively participate in an intensive academic program, community service, and study tour
Commit to return to their home country to apply leadership skills and training to benefit their community, country, or the region of Southeast Asia
Have no (or very minimal) prior study or travel experience in the United States.
Program Funding: Through cooperative agreements with the host universities, the U.S. State Department will cover all participant costs, including program administration, international and visa travel, travel allowances, domestic travel and ground transportation, books and incidental allowances, and housing and subsistence.
Program Requirements and Restrictions: The YSEALI Academic Fellowship Program is an intensive and rigorous academic program and fellows are expected to fully participate in all aspects of the fellowship. Fellows must attend all lectures, participate in all required organized activities, and complete all assignments. Family members and/or friends may not accompany or join fellows for any part of the program. Please make these requirements clear to all nominees.
English Language Ability: English Language proficiency is required to participate in this program: All candidates must be proficient in English to actively participate in the program. Host institutions will consider the varying levels of fellows’ comprehension and speaking ability and will prepare lectures and discussions that meet the highest academic standards while using language appropriate for students where English is their second language.
Housing and Meal Arrangements: Housing will be in shared or single university dorms on campus or full-service hotels within walking distance of most classroom activities. Male and female fellows will be housed in separate quarters. In addition to regular group meals and a university meal plan, fellows may have access to a kitchen to cook meals on their own.
Reasonable Accommodations: Care will be taken to ensure that special requirements regarding diet, daily worship, housing, and medical care are satisfied. Reasonable accommodations will be made available to the greatest extent possible.
Health Benefits: All fellows will be enrolled in the Department of State’s Accident and Sickness Program for Exchanges (ASPE) health benefit plan during the U.S.-based in-person component, which provides coverage of up to $100,000 with a $25 co-pay per medical visit and a $75 co-pay per emergency room visit, for the duration of the program. Pre-existing conditions may be covered up to $100,000, subject to policy exclusions and limitations. Information on the health benefit program may be found online at https://www.sevencorners.com/gov/usdos .
Travel Policy: Fellows are not allowed to arrive in the United States prior to the start date of the fellowship or remain in the United States after the end date. Similarly, fellows are not permitted to leave the fellowship to visit relatives or friends while in the United States. If a relative or friend wishes to visit a participant, it will be considered on a case- by-case basis in consultation with the program officer, the implementing partner, and the host institution. Fellows are required to return to their home countries immediately following the end of the Institute.
Grounds for Dismissal: Violations of program rules, host institution rules, or local, state, or federal laws can be grounds for immediate dismissal from the program.