The academic world thrives on the exchange of ideas, and conferences serve as the crucial platforms for this exchange. However, travel costs can pose a significant barrier. Fortunately, the Travel Assistance Fund offers a lifeline for faculty members seeking to present their scholarly work at professional gatherings.
This fund is designed to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with attending peer-reviewedjuriedor selected conferences. It also supports travel to events where faculty members are set to receive major awards from prominent associations in their fields.
Eligibility and application process
To qualify for the Travel Assistance Fund, applicants must hold a tenure-tracktenuredor research faculty position with a full-time appointment during the 2026-2026 academic year. The application process is straightforward, with no fixed deadlines. Instead, applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
However, there are some restrictions. Faculty members can receive this award for no more than two consecutive fiscal years. Those who received funding in FY 2026 and FY 2026 are ineligible for FY 2026. Additionally, only one trip per person may be funded in a fiscal year, with a maximum award of $1,500.
Application materials and timeline
Applicants must submit their requests prior to the start date of the conference. The application package includes a Request for Research Faculty Status Form. Once submitted, applicants can expect a response within 1-2 business days.
The Research and Sponsored Programs office is closed during the Fall and Spring semesters but remains open during the Summer semester, accepting applications throughout this period.
For those planning to attend conferences in the coming months, the Travel Assistance Fund presents a valuable opportunity to offset travel expenses. By understanding the eligibility criteria and application process, faculty members can focus on what truly matters: sharing their research and contributing to their academic communities.
