These programs focus on global education, travel-based learning, and cross-cultural exchange.
Fund for Teachers Fellowship
Application Window
Opens: Fall (September–October)
Deadline: Late fall (usually November–December)
Awards announced: Spring
What You Need
Detailed travel proposal
Budget plan
Classroom impact plan
Reflection plan for sharing learning
Strong narrative essay
Difficulty Level
Hard
Very competitive
Focus on originality + student impact
Strong storytelling and clarity required
National Geographic Educator Fellowships
Application Window
Varies by program (often winter/spring cycles)
Some rolling opportunities
What You Need
Project proposal
Classroom connection plan
Travel or fieldwork idea
Resume and teaching background
Difficulty Level
Hard
Highly selective
Preference for innovative, field-based learning projects
Earthwatch Educator Fellowships
Application Window
Rolling applications depending on expedition
Summer expeditions fill early
What You Need
Application form
Interest in environmental or field science learning
Classroom integration plan
Difficulty Level
Moderate
More accessible than Fulbright-style programs
Competitive for popular expeditions
Lilly Teacher Creativity Fellowship (Indiana Educators)
Application Window
Opens: Spring–Summer (typically April–August info sessions begin)
Deadline: Early September (usually Sept. 8)
Awards announced: January of following year
Project timeline: up to 18 months
What You Need
Online application with detailed proposal
50-word project summary
Full written narrative (goals, plan, timeline, budget)
Resume/CV
2 letters of recommendation
Proof of Indiana educator employment
Difficulty Level
Hard
Only a small percentage of applicants are selected
Strong emphasis on:
clear writing
intentional planning
meaningful renewal purpose
connection back to student impact
Projects must go beyond “vacation”, they must show intellectual and professional renewal