Frequently Asked Questions
When do I apply for travel grants?
The deadline to apply for winter travel grants is October 1; for summer travel grants, the deadline is February 1. Applications typically open eight weeks before the deadline. You may start your application any time and continue to edit until you are ready to submit it.
Who can apply for a travel grant?
For winter grants, sophomores, juniors and seniors can apply. Priority will be given to seniors who have not been abroad during their Davidson career and seniors who need to conduct research abroad for their thesis or capstone project.
For summer grants, first-years, sophomores and juniors can apply.
What types of student grants can I apply for through Dean Rusk International Studies Program?
You may apply for Dean Rusk research, exploratory and reflective learning, service and study programs. For non-Davidson study programs, Dean Rusk will only review applications for immersive language programs in Arabic and Chinese and select archaeological programs. These specific categories are based on our available funding. You can also apply for the Pulitzer Center Fellowship, Stephen W. Keller Memorial Scholarship, and The Lou Ortmayer Fellowship grants.
Is help available for drafting a proposal?
There are a number of opportunities for receiving advice on writing a proposal. We typically host one writing workshop per grant cycle. Dates are announced through Wildcat Sync and Instagram. We recommend you reach out to the Dean Rusk International Studies Program office and to relevant faculty members and advisors early in the process. You should also consult the How to Apply page. The Writing Center is also a great resource.
How much funding can I expect?
Dean Rusk awards cover airfare, lodging, meals, and ground transportation. Program fees will be discussed on an individual basis. Grant amounts amongst students vary considerably based on length of the proposed experience, type of experience, funding availability, and quality of proposal.
How much time should I spend abroad?
The mission of the Dean Rusk Program is to immerse students in a foreign culture for an extended period at least 2 weeks for winter break and 3 weeks for summer. However, the longer you plan to spend abroad and the more immersive the experience, the more likely it is that your proposal will be approved.
Does Dean Rusk provide support for educational/study programs?
Dean Rusk will only review applications for immersive language programs in Arabic and Chinese, and select archaeological programs. If you are interested in studying abroad during the academic year, please contact the Office of Education Abroad.
What if my plans change?
The Director of the Dean Rusk Program must approve any changes to your project after it has been submitted. In some cases, adjustments to your project will cause the amount of your grant to be changed (for example, if you plan to travel for three weeks instead of six, you may only receive half your original award). Changes in your project that are not approved by the director may result in the forfeiture of your entire grant.
What are the post-travel requirements students must fulfill to keep their grant?
Yes, there are several requirements you must complete after you return to keep grant:
- Attend: Mandatory post-travel meeting & one Dean Rusk event.
- Submit: Grant evaluation, budget reconciliation, and all receipts.
- Write: Reflective essay (AI use is prohibited).
- Media: 5–7 project photos & a donor thank-you video (via direct link).
- Follow-through: Complete all proposed dissemination activities.
How do I apply for a grant if I am abroad?
If you are currently abroad, you can still apply for a travel grant. All students whether abroad or on campus, must first consult with the Dean Rusk office to discuss their project proposal before submitting an application. The deadline is the same for everyone both on and off campus, so be aware of time differences.
Can I receive more than one Dean Rusk Grant?
Yes, however preference will be first given to students who have never traveled abroad during their Davidson career or have never received a Dean Rusk grant in years past. Also, it will depend on funding availability.
Who decides whether or not I receive a grant?
The International Education Committee (IEC), comprised of eight faculty members, decides grant awards.