FAQs
The webinars above were recorded in previous cycles of the ADSP competition; information may not be current but we provide them here to give interested candidates some idea of the program’s contours and perspectives from previous participants.
A: Applicants for the Ambassador’s Distinguished Scholars Program must be U.S. citizens.
A: We accept applications from applicants who will have a terminal degree complete by the time they arrive in Ethiopia to begin the program.
A: Yes, you can apply as long as you are a U.S. citizen with a terminal degree in your field.
A: Yes, retired academics, as well as active tenure track faculty, lecturers, and postdoctoral graduates are eligible to apply. We review applications holistically, taking into account professional qualifications, teaching/research experience, and ability to represent the United States and American higher education through collaboration/knowledge sharing. You do not need an affiliation with an institution in the U.S. to apply.
A: More information can be provided in the eligibility section.
A: We are seeking scholars to reach in Ethiopia for an academic year (October 2023 – July 2024).
A: Faculty positions are available in over 60 disciplines. Preferred fields of study include Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, and Humanities. Each partner university has identified priority disciplines, provided via the downloadable information on each university located at https://www.iie.org/programs/ambassadors-distinguished-scholars-program/about/.
A: Applicants may express preferences and areas of expertise in the application. The program’s selection process with allow the partner universities to evaluate the candidates in terms of fit with the priorities of the host institution. Final offers of placement will be made to candidates based on their qualifications and suitability for the program.
A: At this time, the program provides support for scholars to work only with the following institutions:
- Addis Ababa Science and Technology University
- Adama Science and Technology University
- Arba Minch University
- Bahir Dar University
- Debre Markos University
- Dire Dawa University
- Gondar University
A: The program provides a stipend, outlined in the program benefits page.
A: Yes, selected scholars can also apply for additional funding, but should disclose any additional funding with IIE.
A: Ambassador’s Distinguished Scholars will need to obtain a GV visa from the Ethiopian Embassy in DC in order to receive a work permit from the Ethiopian Ministry of Labor and Social Work. The process also requires authentication of official documents, including a copy of your terminal degree, and marriage certificates and birth certificates (if you have a family member who will accompany you.) More information will be made available to selected grantees but applicants should be aware of the requirements.
A: It is likely that the whole amount of the stipend will be excluded from U.S. tax under the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion depending on your personal circumstances such as other income you may have . Please see the IRS webpage, linked above, for more details that will explain how this exclusion applies to your specific situation.