The Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA) Program is sponsored by the United States Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). Moreover, as part of the Fulbright Foreign Student Program, the Fulbright FLTA Program is designed to develop Americans’ knowledge of foreign cultures as well as languages by supporting teaching assistantships in over 30 languages at hundreds of U.S. institutions of higher education. In addition, the program offers educators from over 50 countries the opportunity to develop their professional skills as well as gain first-hand knowledge of the U.S., its culture and its people.

Eligibility

All Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA) program applicants must be nominated by a U.S. Embassy or a Fulbright Commission; independent applicants do not qualify. Furthermore, applicants are eligible to participate in the Fulbright FLTA program if they:

• Reside in the country of nomination at the time of application
• Also, Possess the equivalent of a U.S. Bachelor’s degree with a good academic record; Master’s degrees are highly desirable at many institutions
• Are an early career teacher of English or training to become a teacher of English, or are an early career educator in a related field; prior teaching experience is preferred
• Also, Have a sincere interest in teaching applicants native language and culture to students in the U.S.
• Are fluent in English, as demonstrated by a recent score of no less than 550 (Paper Based TOEFL), 79-80 (Internet Based TOEFL – IBT), or 6.0 (Overall Score International English Language Testing System – IELTS); test scores can be submitted to IIE by indicating the institutional code 2326 on the day of the test
• Also, Are able to work creatively and be self-reliant while being willing to work cooperatively as part of a team with faculty, staff as well as students
• Are flexible and have a willingness to learn
• Also, Are adaptable to living in rural or urban areas
• Clearly demonstrate maturity, dependability, integrity and professionalism
• Do not hold U.S. citizenship; dual citizens are not eligible for the program participation.

Role of U.S Host Institutions

U.S. host institutions devise the FLTAs’ assistanceships in the United States. The needs of each host institution differ. Thus, each FLTA’s program is tailored to the needs of the institution and qualifications of the selected TA. In general, however, the host institution appoints a Supervisor who:

• tailors the FLTA’s program to meet the department’s unique needs.
• Also, acts as a mentor to the FLTA.
• assists the FLTA to adjust to the U.S. and to solve any issues/problems that may arise.
• Also, serves as IIE’s main contact.