Dean Rusk Grant Application Process

Students are required to meet with the Dean Rusk Office to discuss their project proposal, prior to submission of the application or their application will not be reviewed by the IEC.

We're located in Duke Hall, just across the way from the Alvarez College Union. 

Based on your consultation with the Dean Rusk Office staff, choose your project category. Categories are:

• Exploratory and Reflective Learning
• Research
• Service
• Study Program

Supplemental materials required in the application may differ based on category. 
Review required application components

There are two grant cycles per year, one for Winter break projects and one for Summer projects.

• Winter Break: Grant proposals should meet a minimum time requirement of 2 weeks.

• Summer Break: Grant proposals should meet a minimum time requirement of 3 weeks. The Dean Rusk International Studies Program strongly prefers summer proposals that are for a month or longer.

Grants are awarded twice each year. Application deadlines are:

• Winter Break: Applications must be submitted by October 1.

• Summer Break: Applications must be submitted by February 1.

You will submit your application for a Dean Rusk Grant through Submittable. You may start your application at any time and continue to edit it until you hit "submit." Once you submit your application, you cannot make any changes.  Applications must be received by the deadline.

The U.S. Department of State provides a report that describes the risks and recommended precautions for U.S. citizens in a foreign country. 

Students are allowed to travel to countries with a Level 1-3 Advisory, with a waiver requirement for Level 3. 

A country with Level 4 Advisory will not be considered for a project proposal.

Spending Your Grant & Being a Good Steward

You are expected to responsibly manage the funds entrusted to you by the Dean Rusk Program and private donor. These resources are not solely your own but rather a gift to be used wisely.

• Understand and Adhere to Guidelines: Thoroughly review the Grant Agreement and pay close attention to funding limitations, requirements, and the maintenance of records of expenditure.
• Maintain Detailed Records: Keep meticulous records of all expenses incurred. You must have receipts for all airfare and lodging expenses and provide a daily log for ground transportation and meals.
• Transparency in Reporting: Provide honest and accurate information in your Budget Report, even if differs from your projected budget. Any unused funds must be returned to the Dean Rusk Program. Failure to do so will forfeit your entire grant and you will be expected to return the grant in its entirety.

Share Your International Experience

Upon return, every student must participate in a Dean Rusk event. By disseminating knowledge gained through the grant-funded experience, you will contribute to the broader Davidson community.