Preparing to Host Fulbright Recipients at Penn 

Regarding Fulbright Immigration Status

Department/Faculty Member Invitation

• Invite an overseas colleague to Penn as a visiting scholar, or the scholar may contact Penn directly. 
• Recommend the scholar contact the Fulbright commission or U.S. Embassy in their home country for eligibility, program details, and application deadlines. 
• Confirm the scholar’s status (postdoc or visiting scholar). 
• Provide a letter of invitation outlining the terms of the partnership and the relationship between the scholar’s interests and the department. 

Upon Receipt of a Fulbright Award

• Work with the scholar to determine an appropriate arrival date. 
• Clarify the funding model before the scholar arrives. Discuss: 
  • Duration of funding 
  • Coverage details 
  • Need for additional funding (e.g., for courses) and who will provide it 
  • Responsibility for funding if IIE funding ends (college/department will cover any additional support). 

Pre-Arrival Logistics

• Use ISSS Fulbright-related resources to assist with short-term housing, bank accounts, driver’s licenses, social security cards, transportation, and school registration for dependents. 

Before the scholar arrives

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

Upon arrival

• Schedule an appointment for the scholar to meet with Dr. Rudie Altamirano, Executive Director, ISSS. 
• Provide information on housing, bank accounts, driver’s licenses, social security cards, transportation, and school registration for dependents. 
• Arrange for a Penn email account, office space, computer, and library access. 
• Assist in obtaining a Penn Card. 
• Provide a campus tour. 
• Introduce the scholar to department members and college administration. 
• Encourage attendance at campus events offered by ISSS and other groups. 
• Discuss an appropriate work schedule. 
• Maintain frequent contact throughout the scholar’s stay.