Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program (FVSP)

is a non-degree, post-doctoral award program for researchers, university lecturers and experts from Belarus who wish to conduct post-doctoral research, lecture, or pursue combined lecturing and research in the United States. The program length is 3-6 months.

All candidates must currently be affiliated with universities or research institutions (including NGOs) in Belarus or other countries. Special preference will be given to candidates who have the capacity and commitment to take full advantage of a program of research or lecturing at a U.S. institution, and who are willing to share their experience and knowledge upon return. The Fulbright experience should be of value not only to the scholar, but also to the scholar’s home institution, as well as to the host U.S. institution. Fulbright scholars serve as cultural ambassadors and should be prepared to speak about their country, culture, and research to academic and community groups.

Learn more about FVSP from program alumni:

Eligibility

 Interested candidates also must:

  • be citizens of Belarus;

  • hold a Ph.D. or a post-graduate academic degree of “Kandydat Navuk” or “Doctar Navuk” in the field of research/lecturing;

  • be proficient in oral and written English;

  • receive a satisfactory medical clearance.

Program funding

The program is fully sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and provides the following items during the grant period:

  • International airfare cost for return ticket

  • Monthly stipend for the whole grant period

  • Professional allowance

  • Settling-in allowance

  • Accompanying dependent visa support and monthly allowance

  • Health insurance

Application Process

Applications for this program are usually accepted once a year from December to January. The application season for this program is currently closed. If you have any questions about the FVSP, please contact American Councils for International Education at belarus@americancouncils.org

Online application must include the following: 

  • Detailed project statement of proposed activity for research/lecturing in the U.S.

  • Detailed Curriculum Vitae (resume)

  • Three (3) letters of reference

  • Bibliography (research proposal) and/or course syllabus (lecturing proposal)

  • Letter of invitation from a preferred U.S. host institution (optional, the program can also provide support in finding a host institution)

  • Photocopy of a doctoral or “kandydatskaya” degree

  • Copy of passport

The selection of candidates for the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program is carried out by the Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Embassy in Belarus with support from American Councils for International Education. Short-listed candidates will be invited for an interview.

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The program offers equal opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national or ethnic origin, native language, handicap or disability.

The Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program is open to all Belarusian citizens who meet the eligibility criteria irrespective of their current place of residence.