How to Apply

The following are the steps needed to apply for the Traveling Scholar program:

1. Find the Right Opportunity

• Traveling Scholar is a self-directed initiative where doctoral students pursue specialized courses of study, research unique library collections, and work in advanced laboratories and facilities.
• Because the program is highly individualized, there is no centralized list of available courses or experiences.
• If your university offers a similar experience, you can’t apply

2. Know When to Apply

• Traveling Scholar applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
• You must submit your application at least 6 weeks before the semester starts as the approval process for both home and host universities can take several weeks to complete.
• Applications submitted after this timeframe may not be accepted by the host university.
• Applications are for one semester/quarter. If you intend to extend your experience beyond one semester/quarter, you will have to fill out another application.

3. Be Ready to Relocate

• You will need to attend the host university in person, which may mean moving to a new city.
• You are responsible for securing your own housing and paying for all your living costs.

4. Contact the Relevant Faculty and Administrators

• You must proactively reach out to faculty and administrators involved in the approval process.
• Early communication helps ensure a smooth application experience.

• Required Contacts:

Home University Faculty Advisor

Home University Department Head

Host University Faculty Advisor

Host University Department Head

5. Information to Have Before Starting the Application

• Before starting the application, you should have:
  • The names and email addresses of all the required contacts
  • A description of the experience you are seeking
  • If you are seeking to take a class, you should have the course title and number 

6. After you apply

• You will receive an email confirming your application submission
• Your application will then go through a process that includes receiving approvals from the following contacts
  • Home University Faculty Advisor
  • Home University Department Head
  • Home Traveling Scholar Coordinator
  • Host University Faculty Advisor
  • Host University Department Head
  • Host Traveling Scholar Coordinator
• When a decision has been made on your application, you will receive an email notification