For Scholars: Joining the Scholars Under Threat Program

If you are a scholar who faces threats to your life or career in your home country, the International Institute of Education’s Scholar Rescue Fund (IIE-SRF) program can help you find a year-long fellowship at an institution of higher education. Cornell routinely hosts IIE-SRF scholars, and contacting IIE is the first step to coming to Cornell or other U.S. institutions.

Learn about IIE-SRF eligibility criteria.

If you have faculty connections at Cornell, please contact them as well—faculty collaborators may be able to assist you through their network or with an opportunity for a fellowship at Cornell.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the IIE-SRF program?

The Institute of International Education’s Scholar Rescue Fund (IIE-SRF) arranges, funds, and supports fellowships for threatened and displaced scholars at partnering higher education institutions worldwide, including inside their home regions. At the heart of IIE-SRF is the idea that each scholar we support is a beacon of hope in our world.

IIE-SRF encourages applications from professors and researchers facing threats to their lives or careers. Fellowships support temporary academic positions at universities and other higher education institutions anywhere in the world where scholars can continue their academic work in safety.

IIE-SRF accepts new applications on a rolling basis, and fellowships are awarded quarterly. There is no deadline for applications. Please note that IIE-SRF typically cannot consider new applications from individuals whose original applications were declined.

Where do I apply for an IIE-SRF fellowship?

You can find applicant information on the IIE-SRF website.

How long do Scholars Under Threat appointments at Cornell last?

Funding to support a one-year appointment is typical, with the possibility of reappointment for an additional year. In no case will SUT funding extend beyond two years.

Who qualifies as a Scholar in the SUT program?

Professors, researchers, and public intellectuals from any country, field, or discipline may apply. We encourage applications from individuals who are underrepresented in their fields.

Successful applicants to IIE-SRF typically:

• Hold a PhD or other highest degree in their field
• Have teaching and/or research experience at a university or other institution of higher learning
• Have an established record of published research
• Are facing or have recently fled from direct and immediate threats to their lives and/or careers in their home countries

IIE-SRF strongly discourages the use of AI tools such as ChatGPT during the application process. Suspected use of AI-generated language will be a negative factor during IIE-SRF’s assessment process.

Because of the high demand for IIE-SRF assistance, the program is competitive. We are able to grant fellowship support to only a small proportion of applicants who qualify.

Please visit the IIE-SRF website for more information on eligibility and the application requirements, and process. Applications should be submitted to them via email, srf@iie.org.

Is fluency in English required at Cornell?

A scholar does not need to speak English to qualify for a fellowship with IIE-SRF; however, it is a requirement for scholars whom Cornell hosts. Fluency in English, including writing, is necessary for a successful collaboration at Cornell.

Cornell has programs in place to support ESL and writing once the scholar is on campus.

What benefits does an SUT scholar receive?

Cornell will provide teaching and research opportunities, a living stipend, English language and writing support, and assistance with integration into the community. Additionally, Cornell and IIE will work together to aid with:

• Visa and travel assistance to Cornell
• Assistance in finding housing, community networks, and public schooling for dependents
• Opening a U.S. bank account, getting a social security number, and U.S. cell phone service
• Health benefits coverage through IIE or New York State
• Administrative support for onboarding, payroll, information technology services, library access, and related resources
• Guidance on instructional, research, and training development
• Support in developing a career plan and networking for the next steps
• Participating in departmental and non-departmental seminars, workshops, and social gatherings
• Guest lecturing and special speaking or performance engagements

Is there assistance with travel and other relocation expenses?

Yes, IIE-SRF will often help defray costs.

Are there funds for professional development and English language support?

Yes, Cornell and IIE-SRF have funding for the scholars.