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Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI) for Scholars

Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI) for Scholars

The goal of the Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI) for Scholars program is to provide foreign university faculty and other scholars the opportunity to deepen their understanding of U.S. society, culture, values, and institutions.  This five-week program combines classes, seminars, workshops, and cultural visits.

The call for applications will be open to multinational groups on the following topics:

  • American Politics and Political Thought 
  • Contemporary American Literature
  • Journalism and Media
  • U.S. Culture, Identity, and Society
  • U.S. Economics and Sustainable Development
  • U.S. Foreign Policy

The programs will take place at various colleges, universities, and academic institutions throughout the United States over the course of five weeks

THE CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2024 CYCLE IS NOW OPEN

Submit your application from November 15 through December 15, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.

Candidate Profile and Eligibility Requirements

  • Guatemalan citizen (no dual citizenship) living in Guatemala
  • Between the ages of 30 and 50
  • Minimum of eight (8) years of professional experience as a university professor or researcher
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, at a minimum
  • Fluent in the English language (this will be tested by a native English speaker)
  • Firm plans to enhance, update, or develop courses and/or educational materials with a U.S. studies focus or component
  • Eligible for a J-1 visa
  • Little or no study or travel experience outside of Guatemala

Important note for all potential applicants to U.S. exchange programs

As of November 8, 2021, all non-U.S. citizens seeking to enter the United States by air are NOT required to comply with requirements related to COVID-19 testing and vaccination status, but it is recommended that you do, for your own safety.  

For the latest information from the CDC and guidance, go to https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/proof-of-vaccination.html.

If you have any questions related please contact us through BecasEEUU@state.gov.

Program Requirements and Restrictions

In addition to the requirements listed above, all participants are expected to participate fully in the program.  Please note that this is an intensive program; participants must attend all lectures and organized activities, and complete assigned readings.

SUSI fellows may not apply to any SUSI program.  After two years, they may apply to other U.S. Embassy-sponsored programs other than SUSI.  

How to Apply

  1. Complete the Google Form in https://forms.gle/5BtTL9RPatarLXYZA.  If you encounter difficulties filling out this form, please e-mail us through BecasEEUU@state.gov.
  2. In the Google application form, submit the documents listed below as  PDFs, using the requested naming convention for each file:
    1. Scan of your DPI and valid passport
    2. Scan of your bachelor’s degree
    3. Letter from your university stating how many years you have worked there
    4. Personal statement

Notes 

When submitting your application, please make sure that all the information is correct.  Applications that do not meet these requirements will not be reviewed.

Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. 

Timeframe

  • The call for applications is open from November 15, 2023 to December 15, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.
  • Interviews will be held in January 2024 (in English.)  Applicants selected to be interviewed will be contacted via email.  Applicants who have not received an email invitation to an interview by early January 2024 were not selected to continue in the selection process.
  • It is anticipated that selected fellows will travel to the United States in 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

I don’t have a visa. May I apply?
Yes.  Having a visa is not required to apply.  Candidates should be eligible for a J-1 visa.

What expenses does the SUSI scholarship cover?
The scholarship covers the costs of visa, travel, accommodation, tuition fees, and medical insurance.

Can a family member of a U.S. Embassy employee apply to the program?
Family members of U.S. Embassy employees are not eligible for this program. 

Can a relative travel or stay with the SUSI program participant?
No.  Relatives cannot travel or stay with participants during the program. 

Where do fellows live?
During the program, fellows live in shared university dorms with common bathrooms on campus.  Most meals are provided at campus facilities.