Frequently Asked Questions
SHORT TERM TRAINING PROGRAM

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What fields of study/training are available?  The emphasis of this training program is on the contribution of the proposed training to the development of Cyprus.  Individuals should apply within their field.  Civil servants may only apply to the approved priority fields as given by the Planning Bureau.

Can I apply if I am self-employed?  Yes

Can private industry employees apply?  Yes

Can government employees apply?  Yes.  Please see the list of approved priority fields given to the Fulbright Commission by the Planning Bureau.

How long is the typical training program?  Programs are tailored to each individual and can run 3 weeks to 3 months depending on the several factors such as the availability of courses, willing sponsors, and program cost.

How is training arranged in the US?  Training programs are developed with the assistance of America-Mideast Educational And Training Services, Inc. (AMIDEAST) an organization in Washington, D.C., which is responsible for the grantees placement.  Grantees work closely with a counselor at the Cyprus Fulbright Commission to communicate and coordinate a program specifically suited for the professional.  Training can be developed in many ways through classes, seminars, workshops, and on site training. 

Do I need to suggest training sites or make contacts with organizations in the US?   If a grantee is aware of possible training sites or programs in the US, their Fulbright counselor will welcome the information to pass on to AMIDEAST.  Grantees do NOT need to furnish any training possibilities.

How are arrangements made for living cost in the US?   Grantees will be given a maintenance check prior to departure to cover the hotel and basic meals.  Any sightseeing, theaters, additional books, expensive restaurants, etc. will be at your own expense.   The basic US government allowance rates fluctuate from city to city in the US. 

What determines the length of a training program?   The length of a program is determined by various factors:  type of training, amount of time host institute can devote, and budget.   Seminars, workshops, classes, and host cost can vary greatly.  In addition, travel and living cost within the US can be very expensive.  Your counselors at Fulbright and Amideast will work to develop a program that meets requirements.

Can I stay in the US following my training for a holiday?   Yes, but all costs and arrangements including medical insurance will be the personal obligation of the trainee.

Can my spouse join me in the US during the training program?   Family members are not allowed on the program.  All arrangements made by AMIDEAST are for one individual.  While on your program, trainees are expected to train and meet with people in the field.  Many times additional study is required in the evenings.

Can my spouse or family travel with me following the training program?   Family members are welcome to join you after the completion of your training period; however, you will be personally responsible for making all necessary arrangements.  The Fulbright Commission and AMIDEAST are not responsible for making alternative housing arrangements or purchasing additional medical insurance.

Is all training done in colleges and universities?  Is government and private industries available to selected STT’s?   Academic institutions as well as government and private organizations may be available to host grantees.   AMIDEAST will research many different organizations to meet each individual’s training needs.

What is the selection committee looking for in a candidate for the CASP STT program?   The Selection Committee is a representative of the Cyprus Fulbright Commission Board of Directors and the American Embassy.  The Committee is most interested in candidates who are able to contribute to the development of Cyprus.  

How soon after the selection process will professionals know about their training program?   Grantees meet with their Fulbright counselors to begin the process following the orientation meeting in November.   Programs are developed over the next few months; however, due to the arrangement process, some programs are not finalized till a month prior to departure.  Counselors will try to arrange programs as close to the requested time period as possible, but timing depends upon the schedules of the sponsoring institutions, agencies, and businesses available in the field of training.

Are all costs covered while training in the US?  Will I need additional money?   The cost of the program, hotel, transportation within the US, and basic meals are covered with the training grant.  Grantees should bring additional funds to cover the cost of incidentals, personal travel, books, shopping, expensive restaurants, etc.

If there is a problem while in the US, do I have a contact person?   Each grantee will be given a counselor in the US with AMIDEAST to contact in the event a problem arises.  An 800 toll free number can be used to reach the counselors. 

When and where can I apply for the CASP STT program?   The STT program is announced each year during April/May.  Applications are available at the Commission’s offices.  Applications may also be downloaded from the Fulbright web site at: www.fulbright.org.cy.   Deadline for the applications will be listed in the announcement and on the web site.

If not selected, is there an opportunity to attend a workshop in the US?   Yes.  The Commission organizes several bi-communal workshops each year for Cypriot professionals in different fields.  The workshops are advertised in the local newspapers and on the Commission’s web site. 

Can I apply for the STT program each year?   Professionals are welcome to apply each year if they meet the application criteria.  However, if selected, for an STT program, an individual must wait for a period of 5 years to be considered for the program again. 

Are STT’s required to present or prepare any documents following their training?   All STT’s will be asked to complete an evaluation form following their program.  The Cyprus Fulbright Commission expects that all grantees will share their new knowledge within their community to further develop other professionals in their respective areas.