Visiting Scholars Program

The Advanced Studies Program for International Visiting Scholars at GSEHD is designed for faculty members at universities, analysts at research institutions, mid-career government officials, and other scholars who are concerned with intellectual, social, and economic development and are looking to conduct independent research and writing at The George Washington University. This program is intended for scholars to pursue original research in the field.

Each scholar applies with a plan for conducting independent research including details on proposed research activities, possible contacts and research sites at GW and in the Washington area. We accept scholars whose research focuses on education and human development in various sectors of human activity. Learn more about GSEHD >

Each admitted scholar is matched with a faculty mentor who meets periodically with the scholar to provide input and guidance on the scholar’s developing research and progress. Additionally, scholars have access to the Gelman Library and a shared office space with computer and modest printing. During their stay at GW, scholars are also expected to participate in periodic seminars and events organized for scholars, to make a presentation to GW GSEHD faculty, students, and staff, and to conclude with a final presentation of research conducted while at GW.

The program fees are:

• $4,000 for one semester (Fall or Spring)
• $300 for a summer semester
• $8,300 per year

Scholars may extend their Spring semester stays through summer, but with reduced faculty and administrative support.

A certificate is awarded to those who satisfactorily complete the plan of study and make a public presentation of their work, in either December or May, depending on the term of study.

For more information, please contact Celia Pena-Gomez at gsehd_vsp@gwu.edu.

The VSP offers the opportunity to interact with GW faculty and students, introduction to experts at national and international organizations and institutions in the Washington, D.C. area and a unique opportunity to create a network of colleagues from all over the world through engagement in research utilizing the multitude of resources in the Nation’s Capital.
- A U.S. visa (if needed)
- A GWorld Card (GW identification card) and University email account
- Access to The George Washington University facilities (including Gelman Library)
- GSEHD Visiting Scholar business cards
- Assigned faculty mentor to support scholar’s research (during the academic year)
- Shared office space with other GSEHD visiting scholars, at the Graduate School of Education and Human Development.

The Advanced Studies Program does not provide the following:
- Flights to/from Washington, DC
- Housing and meals
- Transportation
- Health Insurance
- A private office, computer and telephone
- Textbook expenses and conference fees
- Special fees related to individual research, projects such as laboratory equipment
- Parking fees or space
- Fees for non-academic courses not related to your research interest
- Fees for those who wish to take English language
- Academic credit toward a degree

Scholars are accepted on a biannual basis for short-term, semester-long, and year-long appointments. Applicants are required to submit a detailed plan for conducting independent research. The application includes a completed application form, a detailed description of the research project, a current resume or CV, and one letter of recommendation.

The Application includes:
- A completed application form
- A detailed description of the research project
- A current resume or CV
- One letter of recommendation

To apply, please contact Celia Pena-Gomez at gsehd_vsp@gwu.edu.