Laos
2 Open Study/Research Award
Accepted Degree Levels
|
Grant PeriodFlexible StartGrant Length10 Months |
Award Type
Award Profile
There are up to two awards for U.S. recent graduates, graduate or PhD students to conduct a 10-month period of research in Laos.
Grant Length
Grant Period
Grantees have flexibility on their grant start dates depending on host affiliation agreement.
Orientation
Grantees are required to attend a Pre-Departure Orientation organized by ECA and IIE in the summer.
Candidate Profile
Master’s and Ph.D. students are preferred, but graduating seniors and recent graduates will be considered. Applications are welcome in all fields of study. Candidate must be willing and able to work with a high degree of independence.
What is life like for Fulbrighters in the host country?
Applicants are expected to research their host country. Application materials should indicate a clear commitment to the host country community and a description of how you will engage with it.
Being a Fulbright Researcher in Laos is a rewarding and enriching experience. Laos offers a unique environment for conducting research, with opportunities to engage deeply with local communities and cultures. The relaxed and less structured nature of Lao culture requires researchers to be adaptable, as plans may change frequently. As a researcher, you you'll need to be a self-starter who can work independently and take initiative to move your project forward. Resources may be limited, so creativity and problem-solving skills are essential. Laos has a tropical climate, so be prepared for hot and humid weather throughout much of the year. In addition to your research, you are also a cultural ambassador, promoting mutual understanding between the people of the United States and Laos.
Eligibility
6 Months
Degree Level of Applicant
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- Doctoral
Foreign Language Evaluation (FLE) Form
If required, submission of the Foreign Language Evaluation (FLE) form is mandatory, even if you have advanced skills or are a native speaker of the language. Failure to submit the required FLE form may impact your eligibility.
Additional Information: Knowledge of Lao is encouraged, but not required. Applicants without Lao language skills should include plans for language study in their Statements of Grant Purpose. Grantees without Lao language skills must study Lao concurrent with their research after arriving in Laos.
Foreign Language Proficiency Level by Grant Start
If a Foreign Language Evaluation (FLE) form is Required, applicants must have the following proficiency level by the start of the grant period. If a Foreign Language Evaluation (FLE) form is Recommended, applicants are encouraged but not required to have the following level by the start of the grant period.
Fulbright Proposal Types
Yes
No
Affiliation
It is strongly recommended that applicants identify appropriate host institutions for their projects and that they include affiliation letters with their Fulbright applications. The U.S. Embassy will assist in facilitating the affiliations for candidates who have been officially awarded grants.
Affiliation Fees/Tuition
Award Benefits
- A stipend broadly based on the cost of living in the host country. These funds may be used by the grantee to support housing, meals, and incidental costs during the grant period.
- International travel benefits
- Accident & sickness health benefits
- 24/7 mental health support line for urgent and non-urgent situations
- 12 months of non-competitive eligibility (NCE) hiring status within the federal government
Stipend Amount
This is an estimated amount and is subject to change. The financial terms of the grant will be confirmed in the grant document issued after selection.
One-Time Allowances
This is an estimated amount and is subject to change. The financial terms of the grant will be confirmed in the grant document issued after selection.
- Research/Materials allowance
- Settling in allowance
Estimated Cost of Living
Consider using cost of living comparison websites to gain a better understanding of the potential costs in your host country.
Estimated Cost of Living per month
Housing: $300-$500
Transportation: house-school-house or etc $300
Utilities (electricity, internet, gas, etc.): $300
Food: $400
Since motorbike usage is strictly forbidden, the expectation is that part of the monthly stipend is spent on transportation to-and-from host schools and other activities.
Dependents
Special Consideration
Candidates are reminded to observe all security, safety, and health practices appropriate for Southeast Asia, including malaria prevention. As in all developing countries, grantees should not expect sophisticated equipment or apartments with American standards of comfort. Living conditions outside of urban areas tend to be harsh and without modern plumbing and electricity. Housing availability can be limited. Use of libraries can be hampered by short hours, closed stacks, and limited circulation.