Preparing to Host Fulbright Recipients at Penn 

Comprehensive Guide for Departments and Faculty

Preparing to Host Fulbright Recipients 

If you are interested in hosting a Fulbright Visiting Scholar (Teaching Assistant, Faculty, or Researcher) or a Fulbright Student at Penn, follow these steps:

Regarding Fulbright Immigration Status

Please note that neither the University of Pennsylvania nor International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) approves or maintains Fulbright-sponsored immigration status. This status is managed by the Institute of International Education (IIE) in collaboration with the U.S. Department of State. For any inquiries related to immigration status, visa applications, or related concerns, scholars and students should contact IIE directly.

Hosting Fulbright Visiting Scholars

Department/Faculty Member Invitation

• Extend an invitation to an overseas colleague as a visiting scholar, or the scholar may contact Penn directly.
• Advise the scholar to connect with the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in their home country for eligibility, program details, and application deadlines.
• Confirm the scholar’s appointment type (e.g., postdoc, visiting scholar).
• Provide a letter of invitation outlining the terms of the partnership and how the scholar’s interests align with the department.

Upon Receipt of a Fulbright Award

• Work with the scholar to determine an appropriate arrival date.
• Clarify the funding model before arrival, including:
  • Duration and coverage of Fulbright funding
  • Any need for additional funding (e.g., course fees) and who will provide it
  • Departmental responsibility if IIE funding ends

Pre-Arrival Logistics

• Use ISSS resources to assist with housing, banking, transportation, and social security requirements.
• Arrange for school registration support if the scholar is bringing dependents.

Department Responsibilities for Hosting Fulbright Visiting Scholars

Before the Scholar Arrives

• Establish early contact to answer initial questions and set a start date.

Upon Arrival

• Schedule an appointment with Dr. Rudie Altamirano, Executive Director of ISSS by contacting Shyrmaine Sin at ssin@upenn.edu
• Provide information on housing, banking, social security cards, transportation, and dependents’ school registration.
• Facilitate access to a Penn email account, office space, computer, and library resources.
• Assist with obtaining a PennCard and provide a campus tour.
• Introduce the scholar to department colleagues and college administration.
• Encourage participation in campus events, including those offered by ISSS.
• Discuss the scholar’s work schedule and expectations.
• Maintain regular contact throughout their stay.

Hosting Fulbright Students

Fulbright students, including graduate and undergraduate recipients, play an essential role in Penn’s international student community. To support their integration:

• The host department and faculty should facilitate academic and social onboarding.
• Schedule an appointment with Dr. Rudie Altamirano, Executive Director of ISSS by contacting Shyrmaine Sin at ssin@upenn.edu
• Encourage students to engage in ISSS programs and campus activities to foster connections.
• Contact Dr. Yuhong He, Associate Director of Integration and Community Engagement, ISSS (yuhonghe@upenn.edu) for additional resources and support.

By proactively engaging with Fulbright scholars and students, Penn ensures a meaningful and well-supported experience for these distinguished international visitors.