The Fulbright Program for Jordanian Visiting Scholars (FFVP): A Cultural Exchange Opportunity in the United States

The Fulbright Visiting Scholars Program offers Jordanian professors a unique opportunity to participate in a cultural and academic exchange experience by delivering lectures, conducting collaborative research, or both in the United States, for a duration of 3 to 9 months.

The program aims to enhance mutual understanding among peoples, develop academic and research skills, and build international academic and professional relationships. Upon their return, participants contribute to the dissemination of the knowledge and practices they have acquired, which helps develop their local academic communities.

Eligibility and Admission Criteria

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Hold a Ph.D. or equivalent professional degree.
• Currently be engaged in teaching or research at a Jordanian university or research institution.
• Have at least five academic publications since completing their doctoral thesis.
• Demonstrate proficiency in English commensurate with the proposed research project.
• Be capable of representing their country's culture and fostering cultural understanding between Jordan and the United States.
• Obtain an approved leave of absence from their university (leave of absence for research is preferred but not mandatory).
• Not have resided in the United States on a J-1 visa for more than six months during the 12 months prior to the application deadline.
• Preference is given to applicants who have not previously lived or studied in the United States.

Ineligible Applicants:

• U.S. citizens or permanent residents (green card holders).
• Employees of the Fulbright Commission, the U.S. Embassy, or the U.S. Department of State, or their immediate family members.

Program Benefits:

• A monthly stipend for the duration of the program.
• Comprehensive medical coverage.
• A one-time settlement allowance.
• A one-time research allowance (for researchers).
• A monthly allowance for dependents (for those with accompanying family members).
• A one-time travel allowance to cover travel costs to the United States.

*Note: Beneficiaries who plan to travel with family members must cover the cost of their health insurance.

How to Apply:

Step 1: Create an online account on the Fulbright portal and complete the online application form.

Required Documents:

• A detailed statement of the proposed activity (3-5 pages).
• Course syllabi for the proposed teaching courses (for applicants applying for teaching).
• A reference list (for researchers only – maximum of 3 pages).
• An updated CV.
• Three letters of recommendation from academics or work supervisors.
• A list of scientific publications with details.
• An invitation letter from a U.S. university (optional but preferred).
• A leave of absence letter from the local university (if nominated by the university).

Note: All documents must be in English.

About Fulbright - Jordan

The Jordanian-American Commission for Educational Exchange, also known as the Fulbright Commission in Jordan, was established through a bilateral agreement signed in May 1993 between the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the United States. It is jointly funded annually by both countries. The Fulbright Commission is an independent, binational, nonprofit organization responsible for administering prestigious, merit-based grants for Jordanians and Americans. The commission is overseen by an eight-member binational board, consisting of four Jordanians and four Americans, with the Jordanian Minister of Foreign Affairs and the U.S. Ambassador serving as honorary co-chairs.

The Fulbright Program aims to enhance educational and cultural exchange between the United States and Jordan by offering scholarships and fellowships for Jordanian students, teachers, and researchers to study, teach, and conduct research in the U.S. Similarly, it provides opportunities for American academics to participate in similar activities in Jordan. These grants are awarded across the country based on academic and professional excellence through a highly competitive selection process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Who is eligible to apply for the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program for Jordanian Scholars?
   Jordanian scholars with a PhD or equivalent degree, currently engaged in teaching or research at a Jordanian university or research institution, are eligible to apply.

2. What is the duration of the program?
   The program lasts between 3 to 9 months, depending on the proposed research or teaching project.

3. Is English proficiency required for the program?
   Yes, applicants must demonstrate English proficiency suitable for their proposed research or teaching project.

4. What financial support does the program provide?
   The program offers a monthly stipend, medical coverage, a one-time settling-in allowance, a one-time research allowance (for researchers), a monthly dependent allowance, and a one-time travel allowance.

5. How can I apply for the program?
   Applicants must create an account on the Fulbright portal, complete the online application form, and submit required documents, including a CV, research proposal, and recommendation letters.