RFPs: New York Fellowship Program

The New York Fellowship aims to foster Fellows’ understanding of the many diverse cultures and communities in New York City and the U.S. They posit that cultural understanding is uniquely imparted through first-hand experience, regardless of form or method, and that the impact of cultural exchange manifests in diverse ways. They ask applicants to clearly articulate the impact they wish to gain for themselves and others, and what interests them in spending time abroad and exposing themselves to new cultures. Strong applications will include:

• An explanation of the applicant’s interest in ACC’s mission and how spending time abroad and exposure to new cultures will enable them to contribute to this mission.
• A thoughtful overview of the activities and ideas related to your research and cultural immersion. While ACC does not expect a day-to-day schedule, we are interested in how you intend to spend your time during a New York Fellowship, what you hope to gain from this experience, and the impact that you hope these activities will have on you and on others.
• Possible contacts and connections that will help you with your research and cultural immersion.

Funding Information

• ACC will award New York Fellowship grants of $35,000 USD for six (6) months.
  • New York Fellows are expected to manage their own awarded and personal finances according to their research project and the high cost of living of New York City.
  • Please note that the expenses below are deducted from the total grant amount. This means that the amount issued to New York Fellows after their arrival in New York may be $15,580 – $16,630 USD (roughly $2,596 – $2,772 USD/month over six (6) months), if they choose to reside at the International House.
    • $220 USD for the DS-2019 J-1 visa fees
    • $150-$200 USD for mandatory travel health insurance
    • Roughly $18,000-19,000 USD for a 6-month stay at International House (NOTE: Residence at International House is optional and the above amount is an approximate estimate of a 6-month stay in 2025. Learn more below.)
  • While ACC will manage payments for the above expenses, New York Fellows must pay $185 separately for their visa processing application (DS-160) as well as their airfare and other related costs.
  • New York Fellows may choose to receive a $3,000 USD advance payment before their arrival in the U.S., to pay for travel-related expenses in advance.

Programmatic Support

• Group Activities
  • The New York Fellowship group activities are comprised of a curated series of site visits, immersing Fellows in the vibrant cultural ecosystem of New York City. Tailored to each cohort, group activities are designed to align with the unique interests and research themes of Fellowship participants.
• Fellowship Office Hours
  • Fellowship office hours are offered to New York Fellows to meet with ACC’s New York staff and brainstorm and receive feedback on their fellowship research and activities. Staff can connect fellows with resources, potential contacts, and information to advance their research in a customized and personal way. Fellows can contact ACC Program Staff to schedule office hours as needed throughout their 6-month stay.

Logistical Support

• J-1 Visa:
  • All New York Fellows are required to obtain a J-1 visa.
  • ACC will administer the J-1 visa sponsorship in advance of a New York Fellow’s scheduled travel.
  • ACC New York will not sponsor visas for any others, such as spouses, partners, and/or children.
  • The cost of the J-1 visa will be deducted from the awarded grant amount.
• Health Insurance:
  • All Fellows  are required to have health insurance to remain in compliance with the J-1 visa program.
  • ACC will purchase travel health insurance in advance of the fellowship. This amount will be deducted from the awarded grant amount.
  • The health insurance purchased for New York Fellows is non-negotiable; however, Fellows are welcome to purchase additional health insurance from their home countries/territories/regions.
• Housing for New York Fellowship
  • ACC New York Fellows will have the option of selecting:
  • A studio apartment at International House (500 Riverside Dr, New York, NY 10027): ACC’s  New York Office will assist in obtaining this housing option.
• Independent housing: Fellows search, secure, and organize their own housing. ACC will not be able to offer assistance in this process.
  • If selected for a New York Fellowship, ACC will review a New York Fellow’s choice and be available to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of their options.
• New York Fellows are required to inform ACC of their housing decision four (4) months prior to the start date of their Fellowship.
  • Once New York Fellows establish their housing decision, they are fully committed to their chosen option. For Fellows electing to stay at International House, reservations must be made four (4) months prior to the New York Fellowship start date, as rooms beyond this date will not be available or guaranteed. Prompt action is crucial to secure preferred accommodations.

Eligibility Criteria

• In addition to the general eligibility requirements, please note the following:
  • Must be over the age of 21 by the New York Fellowship start date.
  • Must be able to demonstrate at least five (5) years of experience in one of ACC’s eligible fields.
  • Applicants cannot be enrolled in university studies during the time of the fellowship.
  • Applicants cannot be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
  • Previous New York Fellows are not eligible to apply to the New York Fellowship again.

For more information, visit Asian Cultural Council.