Fulbright Foreign Student Grant Benefits & Responsibilites

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of StateBureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs

eca.state.gov/fulbright#fulbright



Fulbright Foreign StudentGrant Benefits & ResponsibilitesTiffany Johansen, Placement ManagerInstitute of International Education (IIE)

July 10, 2019University of Nebraska, Lincoln


You should walk away with:

Goals

Better understanding of resources

Knowledge of J‐1 requirements

ASPE basics

Overview of additional obligations under Fulbright


Welcome to the Fulbright Family!

Over 4,000 Foreign Fulbright

Grantees

Over 150 Countries

50 States


The Fulbright Program

• Established on August 1, 1946 to expand and strengthen the relationships between the people of the United States and citizens of the rest of the world.

• Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and administered by IIE, LASPAU, AMIDEAST.

• https://eca.state.gov/fulbright


Pre‐academic Program Objectives

Academic English Language Skills Academic Skills

U.S. Academic Culture

Period of Adjustment to the

U.S.

Fulbright Networking Opportunities

U.S. Regional Variety


All pre‐academic program expenses:

What’s Included?

$

Travel is arranged by the Fulbright nominating agency, either the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in the Fulbright student’s home country.

ASPE and University Health Insurance coverage‐to begin on arrival date

$200 transit allowance

Books and materials

Room and board (EGSP)

Instruction (tuition)


Support System

FULBRIGHT ADVISOR(IIE/LASPAU/AMIDEAST)

• Fulbright Grant Funding• Travel Info /Signature• J‐1/J‐2 Visa Process• Work Authorization• Legal Documents • Health or Academic issues• GRANTAX‐IIE, LASPAU• SPRINTAX‐ AMIDEAST

FSAFOREIGN STUDENT ADVISOR(International Student Office)

• Campus Involvement

• Student Advising (ISS)

• Cultural Exchange

• Health or Academic issues

• Local Info – housing, cell phones, banking, events, transportation, etc.

AAACADEMIC ADVISOR

(Department)

• Academic Support

• Student Report

• Registration

• Add/Drop Courses

• Degree Progress


Important Offices on Campus

$

Registrar• To register, add, or drop courses • To request transcripts and proof of full‐time enrollment

Office of Disability Services• To discuss resources and reasonable accommodations available

International Student Office• To find helpful resources for international students • To speak with a foreign student advisor

Bursar (may be known by another name on your campus)• To pay tuition, fees, & other expenses


Fulbright Advising

How does your advisor help you?

• Advises you on maintaining good visa standing in the U.S.

• Liaises with university contacts

• Reviews your requests to work in the U.S.

• Directs you to appropriate resources

• Communicates with you about medical or personal concerns that affect your program progress

What should you tell your advisor?

• Any personal concerns

• Any medical concerns

• Any academic concerns

• Any accomplishments!

Your Advisor is your main contact for issues that may affect your Fulbright Program.


Fulbright Advising

Ami Courtney

Kelly

Raanan

Amina Claire Daaimah

Emily Jemina

Sarah

Mie Nick

Tracy


Fulbright Advising

How do you contact your advisor?

SkypePhone Email


Understanding Your Fulbright

Fulbright Online*:

• International travel

• Working in the U.S.

• Bringing your family

• Maintaining status

• ASPE health benefits

• Tax information

• Program completion

* Each cooperative agency has their own website—reference the website when seeking answers to common questions


Fulbright Terms of Appointment & Conditions of SponsorshipCritically important document that describes the benefits and conditions of participation in the Fulbright program. Read it carefully and bring a copy with you to the U.S.

Terms of Appointment

Includes information concerning your academic program, billing & insurance information, and identifies sources of Fulbright award monies.

Terms and Conditions of Sponsorship

Includes detailed information about Fulbright program policies and general requirements


Welcome Message from Fulbright Advisor

Shortly before your arrival, your Fulbright Advisor will send instructions about:

• Specific documents to upload to remain in status throughout the program

• ASPE health benefits plan (print card)

• How to receive grant funding

Are you worried you missed your Fulbright advisor's welcome email? Check your email junk filter first and the information is also available on the website


J‐1 Reporting Requirements• Within 10 days of arrival, you must report your and your

dependents’ (if applicable) entry online and verify the details below with IIE to maintain legal status

• Upload the following for you and any J‐2(s):

– Copy of J‐1 Visa

– Electronic I‐94 document (printed from www.cbp.gov/I94)

– Your local address and contact information

• You should add address, even if temporary, just remember to update it when you find more permanent housing

Details on reporting your arrival are on Fulbright Online: https://foreign.fulbrightonline.org/current‐fulbrighters/arrival‐checklist


Do I have a valid DS‐2019 Form?

• Your DS‐2019 must be valid and available during your stay in the U.S. If it is lost, it must be replaced as soon as possible.

• Your J‐Visa is your key to enter the U.S. ‐ it may expire without consequence.

• Travel Signature is needed on DS to re‐enter the U.S.• Add international travel to the Self Service Portal at least two

weeks prior to trip. – Funding may be reduced for extensive time outside of the

U.S.


Do I have a valid I‐94 number?

• Your I‐94 Number must be valid and available during your stay in the U.S.

• You should always check Class of Admission after each re‐entry to assure you are in J1

• You can access and print your I‐94 at any time at: https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/request.html


Do I have a valid passport?

• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the expected end of your Fulbright program, if possible for your country passport rules.

• You may renew your passport in the U.S.


Is my address up‐to‐date?

• You must notify your administering agency of an address change within 10 days of moving.

• This is a SEVIS requirement.

– The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a system that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) uses to maintain information regarding J‐1 visa Exchange Visitor Program participants (and their J‐2 dependents).


Am I enrolled full time?

• You must be enrolled full‐time every semester except in the last term of the program. (Visiting researchers are exempt.)

• Visiting Researchers submit a signed letter confirming full‐time research.

• AMIDEAST does not require this document


Am I making satisfactory academic progress?• You must make satisfactory academic progress: Overall GPA of 3.0 or higher and no more than one “Incomplete” per semester.

• You should attend all courses you are enrolled in and not be physically absent from any scheduled class.

• Visiting Researchers submit a Visiting Researcher Progress Report.

• Academic struggles? The most important thing is to communicate with your Fulbright advisor and your on‐campus contacts.

– The earlier you communicate, the better!


Regulations on Employment Opportunities

• You may be eligible for academic training or work authorization‐eligibility varies by program

• Check with you Advisor before starting any work or academic training

• Your Fulbright grant could be reduced

• Working without prior authorization will jeopardize your Fulbright & J Visa status

• According to J‐1 regulations, grantees may be eligible to work:

– 20 hours/week in the academic year

– 40 hours/week in summer and holidays

Academic Program

Work Authorization

Academic Training


Program and Study Changes

• If you are have academic difficulties, contact your IIE/Laspau/AMIDEAST Advisor immediately!

• Please note:– On a J‐1 visa, your are only authorized to pursue the

academic objective and field of study listed on your DS‐2019

– Any changes MUST be approved by your advisor in advance

– Online courses MUST be approved by your advisor in advance of enrollment



Adjusting to Life in the U.S.Culture Shock, Experiencing U.S. Culture, Diversity, Safety Precautions & Sexual Harassment


Recognizing Culture ShockYou may feel:

• Homesickness for your family, friends and country

• Depression or Anxiety.

– In the U.S. it is more common to discuss depression, anxiety and loneliness. Reach out if you need help!

• Dependence on people from your country or Student Advisors

• Confusion or feeling out of place


Dealing with Culture Shock

• Don’t isolate yourself! • Take a break from your studies• Visit your university’s counseling

center• Connect with family & friends back

home• Exercise and do outdoor activities to

relieve stress• Don’t lose your sense of humor –

laugh at your mistakes!

Fulbright grantee Pichleap Sok of Cambodia shares her experience with culture shock in this

video. Hover over the box to watch.


Self‐CareCreate a self‐care plan: • What challenges do you anticipate may come up based on your personal experiences in the past?

– Mental health– Physical health

• How will you deal with these challenges?– Think about resources in the U.S. (network) and in your home country– How will you stay connected to your family and friends at home?– Who will you reach out to for help if you encourage challenges in the U.S.?

• Make a list and prepare ideas in advance for addressing personal difficulties while on your Fulbright

• Prepare for the worst case scenario in order to think of actions you can take, but expect the best!

– Suicide Prevention Lifeline (confidential): https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ 1‐800‐273‐8255


The U.S.: Appreciating Diversity

DIVERSITY INCLUDES: • Religious Beliefs• People with disabilities• Gender• Socio‐economic status• Race• Political opinions• Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender communities

• …and many more

• You will bring diversity to your U.S. campus, and you will also meet people unlike you!

• While you are in the U.S. on your Fulbright, it is very important to:• Teach others about your country & culture• Respect others’ culture, gender and sexual

orientation, political opinions• Engage all types of people in conversations and

friendships • It is expected that others will also respect you!


Safety Precautions• Carry minimal cash• Always lock doors and windows• Hide passport and valuables• Travel in groups• Stay in well‐lit, populated areas• Be skeptical of anyone asking for personal

information• Get a local/state identification, so you do

not have to carry around your passport

At the University• Ask for university’s emergency plan • Sign up for automatic safety updates via text/email

• Go to http://www.weather.gov/subscribe for weather alerts

• In an emergency situation, follow instructions given by university staff

In an emergency situation, ensure your safety first. Then contact IIE and your on‐campus advisors to inform them of your whereabouts and for support

Emergency telephone number: 911


Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment involves unacceptable sexual advances that are not welcomed by the recipient.

These include:

• Obscene or degrading terms

• Unwanted touching or staring

• Stalking or following

If you have been the victim of this or any form of harassment, please reach out to campus departments for appropriate resources and let your Fulbright Advisor know.


Domestic ViolenceWhat is it?• Any behavior of which the purpose is to gain power and control over a spouse, partner,

girl/boyfriend or intimate family member.• Can be physical, emotional, verbal, sexual, or economic • It is illegal in the United States and will result in law enforcement actionWhat resources can I use if I need help?• Reach out to a trusted advisor right away – IIE and/or university so they can direct you• International Student Office at your campus• Campus counseling services• If it is an emergency, call 911• The National Domestic Violence Hotline

24/7 Hotline: 1‐800‐799‐7233; TTY 1‐800‐787‐3224www.thehotline.org


Illicit Drug Use

• Although recreational marijuana use is legal in some states and medicinal use legal in many states, all use is still prohibited under federal law.

• As a foreign visitor to the U.S., you are subject to federal immigration law and violating these laws can have a negative impact on your visa status. Drug use, an arrest or a conviction could lead to cancelled visas, criminal records, problems at port of entry, employment issues or even deportation.

• When it comes to marijuana: Be aware use of it may lead to negative impacts on your immigration status.

• Always contact your Fulbright Advisor and FSA if you have an encounter with law enforcement


Publications, Speech, and Internet‐based Media• Participants in all U.S. State Department‐sponsored academic exchange scholarships have

academic and artistic freedom to write, publish, speak, and create.

• Expectation: maintain a standard of conduct that is in keeping with the spirit and intent of the program.

• Clearly state that your blog/posts are not an official site of the Fulbright Program or the U.S. Department of State. The views expressed on your site are entirely your own and do not represent the views of the Fulbright Program, the U.S. Department of State, or any of its partner organizations.

• Comments that are considered harmless or funny in your country may be considered offensive in the United States. Choose your words carefully.

• Reach out to your Fulbright Advisor if you feel uncomfortable or have questions about your freedom of expression.


Public Assistance• Under some laws, J‐1 visa holders and J‐2 dependents may seem to qualify for public assistance.

Accepting such benefits as a J‐1 or J‐2 visa holder can lead to concerns related to a “public charge” and can result in inadmissibility

• Fulbright grantees should not participate in federal, state, or local government‐sponsored programs that provide:

– Housing subsidies or assistance

– Cash assistance and/or food assistance

– Medical care and nutritional support to J2 dependents

– Other assistance

• Be advised that regulations regarding public assistance are subject to change at any time, please visit the USCIS website if you have questions about what is public assistance: https://www.uscis.gov/greencard/public‐charge



Accident and Sickness Program for Exchanges (ASPE) Health Benefit Plan


Health Benefits: Key PointsASPE Health Provider: Seven Corners (http://usdos.sevencorners.com)

• Covers you for the duration of your Fulbright Program inside of the United States

– Depending on your personal medical needs, you may want to purchase additional coverage—review the benefits online!

• Check your Terms of Appointment to see if you are also required to purchase university health insurance

• Many universities also require students to purchase university health insurance, regardless

• Meets the minimum health coverage requirements for J‐1 exchange visitors

• Print your health benefits (ASPE) card

• Basic Medical Expenses: Maximum benefit per injury or illness: $100,000

– $25.00 co‐pay for office visits

– $75.00 co‐pay for ER, Hospitalizations and Urgent Care


Eligibility

24/7 coverage in your “host” country• ASPE will not cover you outside of your host country on personal leave/vacation• Example: Grantees host country is the United States, the grantee will not be covered by ASPE for personal leave, vacation/holiday outside the United States to include Canada and Mexico.

Dates on ID card

• Not covered by ASPE

Leave of Absence

• Not covered outside of your host country, if traveling check with ISS office for short‐term plans.

Travel outside “host country”


Primary or Secondary

• Contact Seven Corners for any questions related to your ASPE coverage

If ASPE is your only coverage – ASPE is primary

• Use your insurance policy for all medical treatment.• Medical bills not paid by your insurance policy can be submitted to Seven Corners for processing as long as the medical treatment is not for a pre‐ex condition.

• Call Seven Corners customer service if you need help.• Update details of your university plan at the portal.

If you are covered by a University Insurance Policy—ASPE is secondary


Seven Corners Customer Service

• Contact Seven Corners for any questions related to your ASPE coverage• Call toll free 1‐800‐461‐0430 • E‐mail: [email protected]

• Find a doctor or hospital• Questions about ASPE or medical bills• Need claim/reimbursement forms• Download copy of Benefit Guide

Administers ASPE Plan ‐ Staffed 24/7


Benefit Limitations

• Pre‐Existing Conditions• Alcohol/substance abuse instances• Dental care—all dental care including routine*• Vision care—routine eye exams or glasses/contacts not covered*• Routine examinations—any type of routine medical care is not covered• Immunizations/vaccinations*

ASPE does not cover the following


Exceptions to Pre‐Existing

Pregnancy

• Prescription medications are not subject to the pre‐existing clause; only medical conditions • Diabetes • Office visit, blood tests would not be covered• Medication such as Insulin, and syringes are covered• The Insulin pump is an exclusion and would be covered

Prescription Medications


Exceptions

• Only treatment for the emergency alleviation of pain will be paid and the maximum allowed is $1000.00 per benefit year.

• Call Seven Corners customer service for help in finding a dentist

Dental Exception

If you are in an accident and your eyeglasses/contacts are damaged, ASPE will replace or repair your eyeglasses or contacts; the maximum limit is $300.00

Vision (eyes) exception

Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Polio, Varicella, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis, Quadrivalent Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (HPV), Hepatitis A Vaccine, Hepatitis B Vaccine, Meningococcal Tetravalent (Meningitis), Influenza, Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine and Tetanus booster—only if booster is required by the University. In addition, Hepatitis C and Tuberculosis skin tests (PPD) are also covered

Covered Immunizations/Vaccinations


Provider Networks: In‐Network vs. Out‐of‐Network

First Health Network:http://firsthealth.coventryhealthcare.com/locate‐a‐provider/index.htm

ASPE uses a preferred provider network for medical care


Pharmacy Network

•www.optumrx.com•Paid prescriptions—show your ID card with a written prescription at the pharmacy•Start date on ID card is the start of your ASPE coverage and your prescription coverage• If you are not in the prescription system please contact Seven Corners customer service

Optum

Go to www.usdos.sevencorners.com or go directly to www.optumrx.com to register and access a list of in network pharmacies

To find a pharmacy:

Exclusions to the prescription program are on page 22 of ASPE Benefit Guide

Call Pharmacy Member Services at 1.800.531.6351


Benefit LimitationsPERILOUS ACTIVITY – NOT COVERED!

Bungee Jumping Sky Diving Rock Climbing Scuba Diving


Dependents

• Not all country programs allow grantees to bring dependents on program, check with your advisor• Grantees with dependents are required to purchase health insurance and provide proof of sufficient funding for their dependents in advance• Having dependents with you on your program is expensive‐be prepared for the costs• J‐exchange visitors and dependents cannot receive public assistance (subsidized housing, healthcare, food assistance, etc.), or their J‐exchange visa can be revoked• Suggested websites for information and quote– www.sevencorners.com (commercial side)– www.insubuy.com– www.squaremouth.com

ASPE only covers the grantee!


www.sevencorners.com/gov/usdos


myplan.sevencorners.com

Click on ‘Setup New Account’


Health‐Related IssuesIt’s important to remain healthy during your program. Should you need to seek medical services, there are many medical care facility options in the U.S.:

• Campus Health Center: First stop for minor medical concerns

• Urgent Care Centers & Clinics: Located conveniently inside common pharmacies; can treat minor medical issues and prescribe medication

• Primary Care Provider: General doctor in a private practice or at a hospital

• Emergency Room: For life threatening major sickness or accidents

Emergency telephone number: 911


Health‐Related Issues

It’s important to maintain mental health wellness. Should you need to seek mental health services, there are many mental health providers:

• On‐campus counseling centers

• Therapists

• Psychologists

• Psychiatrists

U.S. law ensures confidentiality and treatment will not be part of school or personal record.


Planning Your Finances

• Know your grant dates and length of Fulbright‐supported program

• Confirm your Fulbright stipend payment dates

• Draft a budget for the coming year

• Bring supplemental funds to cover personal expenses during, before and after your grant period (i.e. recreational travel, clothing, etc.).

Fulbright funding may be reduced if you will be outside the U.S. for an extended period of time during your grant. Check with the Fulbright office in your home country for specific policies.


Tax Information

• All Exchange Visitors are required to file forms relating to their tax status, even if you do not end up owing taxes.

• You will receive information on taxes and filing your tax return in the spring semester.

• You are required to use IIE’s tax services if you received funds from IIE or Laspau, whether you owe taxes or not.

• AMIDEAST grantees use SPRINTAX


Tax ID Number

• J‐1 students are eligible for a SSN if they have an employment start date for an opportunity like a university teaching assistantship or research assistantship.

• Otherwise, you will receive instructions to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

• AMIDEAST grantees must apply for an SSN. If their application is denied, they should then apply for an ITIN.


Year 1 and BeyondIn‐Program Requirements• J‐1 status is valid in the U.S. for the duration of

the program as indicated on the DS‐2019 • Alert Advisor of any travel outside the U.S at

least 4 weeks prior to travel and get a signature from advisor on your DS‐2019.

• Register full‐time each term, and provide proof of full‐time enrollment and transcript, which can be requested from the university registrar’s office.

• Don’t worry! Your Fulbright Advisor will reach out to you regarding continuing your program beyond year one


Connecting with Your Community• Participate in community service

• Present at a school or conference

• Join a university club

• Keep a blog to share with friends and family

• Share your experiences on social media using #Fulbright

• Build bridges with other Fulbright students and scholars

• Think about how you will promote the Fulbright objective of sharing the skills and knowledge that you obtain in the U.S. once you return home.


Welcome to the Fulbright Family!

@the_fulbright_program

facebook.com/fulbright

@FulbrightPrgrm

The Fulbright Program

vimeo.com/fulbright

alumni.state.gov

blog.fulbrightonline.org

youtube.com/fulbrightprogram

Connect with #FulbrightConnect with #Fulbright


Summary• Report arrival within 10 days of your SEVIS start

date.

• Print ASPE card and determine if ASPE meets your university’s insurance requirements.

• Submit proof of enrollment and transcript every term.

• Remember your resources ‐ Fulbright Advisor, international student office, other offices on campus (counseling center etc.).

• Represent the mission and goals of the Fulbright program. Get involved in your community, network with each other, and keep us updated.


Questions



Thank You!

We wish you all the best during your Fulbright experience in the United States!

Fulbright Foreign Student Grant Benefits & Responsibilites

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