About the IIE Scholar Rescue Fund

• Scholarship Name: IIE Scholar Rescue Fund (SRF).
• University: Any accredited host university worldwide that agrees to host the threatened scholar.
• Amount: Fellowship stipend, relocation support, and academic placement for 12–24 months.
• Eligibility: Professors, researchers, and public intellectuals whose lives or careers are threatened in their home country.
• Selection Criteria: Academic merit, threat verification, and placement potential.
• GPA Requirement: Not applicable — applicants are established scholars.
• English Proficiency: No test required — placement determines language needs.
• Application Process: Apply directly through the IIE Scholar Rescue Fund portal, or be nominated by a colleague.
• Renewability: One-time fellowship (12–24 months).
• Application Deadline: Rolling — applications accepted year-round.

How to Access the Scholar Rescue Fund

Applying as a Threatened Scholar

• Document the threat clearly — official letters, news reports, colleague statements.
• Provide your academic CV, publications, and teaching record.
• Identify potential host universities where your field fits.
• Ask a trusted colleague to nominate or write a supporting letter.
• Submit your application as soon as it is safe to do so.

Preparing Your Academic Statement

• Open with the reason for the threat — factually and briefly.
• Show your academic achievements with concrete outcomes.
• Explain what you will do at the host institution.
• Describe your plan to continue your work after the fellowship.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting too long. Apply as soon as you are at risk — this fund is time-sensitive.
• Insufficient threat documentation. Evidence must be verifiable.
• Vague academic plan. Clear research or teaching plan speeds up placement.
• No host university identified. IIE can help match you — but a lead is helpful.
• Applying without a CV. A strong, well-organized CV is essential.
• Ignoring follow-up. Respond to IIE quickly.

Remember, IIE SRF exists to protect scholars under threat — do not hesitate to apply.

Application Details

Required Documents

• Completed IIE SRF application form
• Academic CV (extensive, with publications)
• Two letters of recommendation
• Documentation of the threat in the home country
• Statement of research or teaching plan
• Copy of passport and academic credentials

Application Timeline

• Exact Deadline: Rolling — applications accepted year-round
• Application Opens: Year-round
• Review Period: 4–8 weeks
• Interviews: If needed, arranged after initial review
• Final Decisions: Rolling
• Placement Begins: Upon host university agreement

Selection Criteria

• Academic merit and publication record
• Verification of the threat
• Fit with a host university
• Potential to continue academic work
• Ability to contribute to the host institution

Additional Information

• Application Fee: None
• Number of Awards: Approximately 80–100 globally per year
• Interview Format: Virtual if needed
• Notification Date: Rolling
• Proof of Funds: Not required
• Health Insurance: Covered during fellowship
• Family Allowance: Partial support may be available
• Visa Support: Yes, in coordination with the host institution
• Contact Email: srf@iie.org