The Fulbright TEA Program brings approximately 160 outstanding international secondary-level schoolteachers from across the globe and provides general academic seminars focusing on new teaching methodologies, student-centered learning, content-based instruction, lesson planning, and instructional technology training for teachers. TEA Awardees go to a U.S. university for a six-week, non-degree academic program.

While in the U.S., TEA recipients take academic seminars for professional development, observe master teachers, and share their culture and expertise with the local community. Intensive English language instruction will be offered to teachers who need additional practice. The program will also include a practicum of at least 40 hours with a U.S. partner teacher in a secondary school near the host university to actively engage participants in the U.S. classroom environment. Cultural enrichment, mentoring, and support will be provided to participants throughout the program. The TEA program equips teachers with a deeper understanding of cutting-edge teaching practices, a more nuanced understanding of the U.S., and develops lasting relationships of mutual understanding between U.S. and Sri Lankan teachers and their students. Fulbright TEA prepares teachers to share their skills and experience with peers and students upon returning to Sri Lanka. Through this exchange U.S. students will become more aware of the unique dynamics, history, and culture of Sri Lanka.

• Pre-departure orientation program in Colombo.
• Round-trip economy class air travel from Sri Lanka to the host institution in the U.S.
• Housing (generally shared with other program fellows) and meals.
• Health insurance including accident and medical/sickness coverage, but excluding pre-existing conditions.
• Allowance for incidentals.
• Baggage allowance on return flight.
• End-of-program workshop in Washington, D.C.

Grant Period: Six (6) weeks total in either Spring (January-March) or Fall (September-November). Dates to be determined by host universities in the U.S. in collaboration with IREX. You will be notified of exact dates if you are selected.

To apply, you must:

1. Be a current, full time Sri Lankan secondary-level (6^th to 12^th grades) schoolteacher of English, English as a Foreign Language (EFL), math, science, foreign language, social studies, journalism, communications, including special education teachers in those subjects, at institutions serving primarily a local population
2. Be a Sri Lankan citizen who has continuously resided in Sri Lanka for a minimum of 2 years immediately prior to the award application deadline.
3. Have earned a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education qualification.
4. Have completed teaching a minimum of 5 years by the start of the Fulbright TEA program.
5. Be proficient in English.
6. Have not previously received a Fulbright TEA award.
7. Not be applying for or holding permanent resident visa (Green Card) in the United States; not be dual U.S./Sri Lanka citizen; and not hold work or resident visa in another country.
8. Reside in Sri Lanka for a minimum of 2 years following the completion of the grant.

While not mandatory, priority will be given to candidates that:

1. Teach in government schools.
2. Had few or no opportunities to travel to the U.S.
3. Demonstrate a commitment to continue working in secondary education for at least 5 years after the conclusion of the program and return to Sri Lanka.
4. Will share the knowledge and experience gained on the program with teachers and students in their home school and within their community.
5. Demonstrate strong leadership potential.
6. Demonstrate the ability to function well in an intensive and collaborative learning environment with teachers from around the world.
7. Are comfortable with international travel.
8. Are a good representative for Sri Lanka.

Please click on these links for more about the Fulbright TEA Application Process and Supporting Documents.

(1) Fulbright TEA Online Application Guide for Applicants
(2) Fulbright TEA Leave Approval Form (LAF) 
(3) Fulbright TEA Institutional Support and Reference Form (ISRF)
(4) Fulbright TEA Program Information Sheet
(5) Online Application Link (IREX): You must register on this website to access information and apply.