Introduction to the Soros Foundation Social Work Fellowship Program
Eligibility requirements
Instructions for applying
Selection process
What is social work?
Academic programs: 1. Methods of SW practice; 2. Social problem areas
Application form
Timeline
List of participants in the SWF program
Useful websites, reference

SELECTION PROCESS

Selection is based on academic and professional merit, professional aptitude, leadership potential, long-term commitment to social work in applicant's home country, and English language ability. A U.S.-based selection committee comprised of U.S. professors and admissions officials from the participating host universities will review applications of candidates who meet the requirements and select semifinalists. All applicants will be notified of their status by January 31, 2004.

Semifinalists will be tested for English (TOEFL) and interviewed in the participating countries during February 2004. The Program will cover costs associated with the TOEFL and interviews. The selection committee will recommend finalists and determine placement. Applicants cannot select their own placements. All semifinalists will be notified of their status by May 31, 2004.

Please do NOT contact your local Soros / OSI office about your status, they will contact you after receiving notification from OSI - New York.

Financial Terms
Fellowships will cover the following costs: program related travel, pre-departure and arrival orientation, intensive Pre-Academic English language training program, tuition (for Pre-Academic and Graduate programs), monthly living stipend (to cover room and board), textbooks, professional development support, accident and sickness insurance, and participation in Program meetings in the United States.

Visa Sponsorship
Participants will enter the United States as a student on J-1 Exchange Visitor visa. They are expected to comply with all visa regulations and may be subject to a two-year home residency requirement upon completion of the program. Requests for visa renewals or extensions will not be considered.

Dependents
The Program does not offer any financial support or special provisions for dependent family members. Family members will have to apply for J-2 visas and may not be able to arrive in the US until fall 2002.

Participant Responsibility
Finalists must attend a pre-departure and an arrival orientation, an annual Program workshop and a summer English language /Pre-Academic program. Fellows must uphold the academic standards of the Host University and undertake full-time study for the duration of the program. Fellows will not be permitted to change their assigned host university or field of study. Failure to maintain academic and professional standards may result in dismissal from the Program.