Following are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the InterExchange Foundation and the grants we provide. If you have any additional questions, please call (212) 924-0446 or email us.
Q. Why was the InterExchange Foundation established?
A. The InterExchange Foundation was established in 2007 to provide grants to young Americans who wish to participate in meaningful work abroad experiences. It seeks to further international understanding and promote cultural awareness by supporting young Americans in working abroad.
Q. What is InterExchange?
A. InterExchange is a non-profit organization devoted to promoting cultural awareness through work and cultural exchange programs. For more than 40 years, InterExchange has been providing opportunities for people from all over the world to come to the USA for valuable work experiences, and has allowed young Americans to participate in work and volunteer programs overseas.
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Q. What is the Working Abroad Grant?
A. The Working Abroad Grant is a $1,500 grant available to certain participants who have been accepted into InterExchange’s respected Working Abroad program.
Working Abroad Grants are awarded to applicants who show a high level of commitment to their chosen Working Abroad program. Preference is given toward applicants with limited or no previous international travel experience.
Q. What is the Christianson Grant?
A. The Christianson Grant is a $2,500 - $10,000 grant that is awarded to individuals who have arranged their own work abroad programs. Proposed programs must be at least sixth months in length and emphasize a work component. The grant program does not support independent research projects or academic study abroad programs.
Q. Who can apply for InterExchange Foundation grants?
A. All grant applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents between the ages of 18 and 28. They must also be willing to submit a written report upon completion of their program. Working Abroad Grant applicants must already be accepted to the InterExchange Working Abroad program. Christianson Grant applicants must be involved in a work, volunteer, or intern program that is at least 6 months in duration.
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Q. Can I apply for both the Christianson and Working Abroad Grants at the same time?
A. Applicants may only apply for one InterExchange Grant at a time. The Christianson Grant may not be used to fund an InterExchange Working Abroad program.
Q. How should I submit my application?
A. Please submit your complete application by mail to our New York office. We do not accept applications via email or fax. Applications must be received (not postmarked) by the deadline.
Q. Do my letters of recommendation need to be included when I send in my application?
A. Letters of recommendation may be sent separately, however your application will not be considered complete until we have received all of your application materials.
Q. Who should write my letters of recommendation and what should the letters contain?
A. Your letters of recommendation can come from a school advisor, professor, or supervisor (of paid or volunteer positions). The letter should describe why you are a suitable candidate for the grant for which you are applying.
Q. Will I be interviewed as part of the application process?
A. Grant finalists are usually interviewed by the Foundation Manager. Should you be selected for an interview, InterExchange will contact you upon review of your complete application to schedule a time. The interview typically lasts 30 minutes. Interviews are conducted by telephone for applicants residing outside of the New York City area.
Q. If I am participating in more than one InterExchange Working Abroad program, can I apply for funding to cover all of the programs?
A. No. Please choose only one Working Abroad program when applying. If you do not specify the program, InterExchange will consider your application for the first program you are participating in.
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