Global Professional Development Grants

The Global Engagement Professional Development Grant provides advanced undergraduate and graduate students with an interest in international education or global affairs the chance to apply for up to $2,000 to attend conferences, workshops, or seminars, either domestically or abroad. Designed to support U-M students pursuing careers in these fields, this funding is intended for short-term experiences that foster the development of professional skills and help advance students’ academic and career aspirations.

Examples of such experiences include, but are not limited to, conferences, workshops, or seminars offered by:

• NAFSA: Professional Association of International Educators 
• The Forum on Education Abroad
• Diversity Abroad
• Institute for International Education 
• Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL) Association
• U7+ Alliance of World Universities 
• Association of Pacific Rim Universities 

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicant must be a junior, senior, or graduate student enrolled on the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor campus
• Applicant must demonstrate commitment to pursuing a career in international education or global affairs 

Grant Guidelines

• Grant can be used for conference, workshop, or seminar registration fees, travel, or accommodations
• Grants cannot be used for participation in a study abroad program
• Grants cannot be used for licensure or membership fees for professional societies 
• Requests to reimburse prior professional development activities will not be considered

Application Process

• A brief description of the professional development activity
• A narrative which describes the rationale for attending the professional development event and the importance to one’s academic and career goals
• Requested funding amount and a breakdown of the specific expenses to be covered. Students can request up to $2,000
• A letter of support from an advisor or faculty member highlighting the student’s academic and career goals, and how the proposed experience aligns with those objectives
• Apply Now

Deadline: March 17, 2025

*A second application cycle will open in late August, 2025

Questions? Contact Aileen Ash (amash@umich.edu)