Traveling Scholar Program - Introduction

Traveling Scholar Program - Introduction

Traveling Scholar Program Ending in 2026-27

The Traveling Scholar Program will conclude during the 2026-27 academic year.

  • Applications for Winter and Spring terms will be accepted through October 19, 2026.
  • October 19, 2026, is the final application deadline.
  • After this date, the Traveling Scholar application will be permanently closed and no new applications will be accepted.

Students interested in participating in the program should submit their application before the October 19 deadline.

Since 1963, the Traveling Scholar Program has allowed Big Ten Academic Alliance doctoral students to spend up to a full academic year pursuing specialized courses of study, researching unique library collections, and working in advanced laboratories and facilities at other Big Ten Academic Alliance institutions – with no change in registration procedures from their home university or additional tuition.

To participate, doctoral students must first consult their advisor to ensure the opportunity will benefit their doctoral studies. Additionally, advisors examine whether the specialized course, resource, or opportunity being sought through Traveling Scholar is unavailable to the scholar on their home campus. Approval from the host course instructor and/or faculty sponsor is required.