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Global Affairs

Driving Global Engagement and Innovation

The Office of Global Affairs leads the execution of Florida Polytechnic University’s international strategy, fostering transformative opportunities for students and faculty through innovative internationalization initiatives, cross-border research collaboration, study aboard programs, and global research internships.

863-874-8620

international@floridapoly.edu

IST Building, Room 2029
4700 Research Way
Lakeland, FL 33805

Featured Programs

Explore featured global programs and opportunities designed to expand international collaboration, research, education, and experiential learning at Florida Poly.

Fellowship & Funding Opportunities
Visiting Scholars Program
Joint PhD
Global Partnerships
Fulbright Scholars Program
Global Executive Education & Training
Education Abroad Programs

Impact Beyond Campus

  • 54+ Prestigious Global Awards
  • 60+ Nationalities Represented
  • 5% Top STEM Fulbright Producer in the U.S.

Fellowship & Funding Opportunities

Florida Poly is committed to cultivating every student’s capacity to excel as a distinguished scholar, scientist, innovator, or industry leader. In close partnership with faculty across disciplines, we strategically identify and nurture exceptional talent. Through access to world-class research, global STEM education, and selective leadership opportunities, we empower our students to realize their full potential and position them for purposeful impact on the global stage.

Florida Polytechnic University does not provide or fund these scholarship programs. 

The U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program enables students with limited financial resources to pursue study or internship opportunities abroad, equipping them with skills essential to U.S. national security and economic competitiveness. This merit-based scholarship is highly competitive. Eligibility requires applicants to be Federal Pell Grant recipients at the time of application or to demonstrate that they will receive a Pell Grant during the period of their study abroad program or internship.

The Quad Fellowship provides a distinctive combination of financial support, cross-cultural exchange, networking, and academic programming. Each Fellow receives a one-time award of $50,000, which may be applied toward tuition, research, fees, books, room and board, and other academic expenses such as registration or research-related travel. Additionally, all Fellows may apply for need-based funding of up to $25,000 to support the completion of graduate-level studies. Eligibility extends to graduating seniors, recent alumni, and current graduate students who are continuing their degrees, and who are citizens or permanent residents of the United States, Australia, India, or Japan.

The Fulbright U.S. Student Program provides one year of funding for graduating seniors, graduate students, and alumni to pursue graduate study, conduct research, Applicants may apply to only one country and for one type of award, and available opportunities vary by country. Prospective applicants should consult the country-specific program information for details on awards offered.

The Amgen Scholars Program offers hundreds of undergraduates the opportunity to conduct hands-on research at leading universities such as Caltech, Harvard, and Stanford. A hallmark of the program is the mid-summer symposium in California, where participants engage directly with distinguished scientists from both academia and industry. Eligibility extends to second- and third-year U.S. citizens or permanent residents applying to U.S. host institutions, while international students may apply to the Japan program.

The Churchill Scholarship supports American students pursuing one year of master’s-level study in science, mathematics, or engineering at the University of Cambridge, with residency at Churchill College. Northwestern may nominate up to two candidates annually. Successful applicants typically present a GPA of 3.9 or higher. Eligibility is limited to U.S. citizens who are graduating seniors or recent graduates within the past twelve months.

The Goldwater Foundation provides up to 460 scholarships annually to sophomores and juniors who demonstrate strong potential for a research career in the sciences, engineering, or mathematics. Competitive applicants typically maintain a GPA of 3.8 or higher and possess relevant research experience. Each scholarship awards $7,500 per year toward remaining undergraduate expenses.

Research Internships in Science and Engineering (RISE) provides undergraduate students from North American universities the opportunity to participate in a summer research internship at leading German universities and research institutions. Participants are matched with a host university or institute based on their research interests. The DAAD supports students with a monthly stipend for three months to help cover living expenses. Knowledge of the German language is not required.

The Vienna BioCenter Summer School offers up to thirty undergraduate students the opportunity to conduct research alongside leading scientists in a dynamic and collaborative environment. Designed to attract top talent from around the globe, the program fosters a diverse and vibrant community, serving as excellent preparation for graduate study in the life sciences. Selected participants receive accommodation, a travel allowance, and a stipend for the duration of the program. Eligible applicants include second-, third-, and fourth-year undergraduates, first-year master’s students, and advanced MD students.

McCall MacBain Scholars are awarded fully funded master’s and professional degrees at McGill University in Montréal, Canada. Eligibility extends to graduating seniors and recent alumni, who must obtain a nomination from Northwestern. Applicants are required to apply directly to their chosen graduate program at McGill, adhering to the deadlines and procedures specified on the university’s website.

The ISTernship (IST- + (int)ernship) is a summer research internship program for bachelor’s and master’s students seeking to deepen their experience in scientific research. The program welcomes students interested in biology, computer science, data science, scientific computing, mathematics, physics, neuroscience, chemistry, materials science, and interdisciplinary fields. Since 2013, up to 40 students have participated each summer, working closely with faculty or lab members on short-term research projects.

Applicants select a research group as part of their application, and successful candidates collaborate with the group leader to define a project. Upon arrival, interns receive an introduction to research at ISTA and the ISTA Graduate School. The program concludes with a research symposium, where participants present their work to peers, faculty, and lab mentors. Internships are full-time and conducted entirely in English. Eligible applicants include third- and fourth-year undergraduates and current master’s students.

Visting Scholars Program

The Florida Polytechnic University Visiting Scholars Program has over a decade of experience hosting outstanding international scholars and faculty. Each year, the program attracts a remarkably diverse cohort whose research spans a broad spectrum of STEM disciplines. Participants include senior faculty from leading global research institutions as well as doctoral students at the beginning of their academic careers, fostering a dynamic environment for scholarly exchange and collaboration.

“Visiting Scholar” is a courtesy designation and does not constitute a formal appointment with Florida Polytechnic University. Faculty members intending to host an international scholar must consult with the Office of Global Affairs before issuing an invitation letter.

Application Process

All prospective Visiting Scholars, regardless of country of residence or any existing affiliation, must submit an application form and the supporting materials.

Step 1: Visiting Scholars must submit the application form along with the supplemental scholar form. 

Step 2: Host faculty member must complete the Exchange Visitor Request Form

  • Curriculum Vitae (C.V.)
  • One-page research proposal
  • List of Publications
  • Two (2) Letters of Recommendation
  • Interview conducted with the designated immigration advisor (IIE).
  • Proof of English language proficiency. In compliance with U.S. Department of State requirements, all J-1 visitors must demonstrate sufficient English proficiency to ensure academic success. Applicants must provide one of the following forms of documentation as part of their application:
    • Proof of citizenship (e.g., passport ID page) from a country where English is an official language.
    • Official diploma (scan or photocopy) from an academic institution where English is the primary language of instruction.
    • Evidence of prior J-1 program participation (e.g., a copy of a previous DS-2019 or confirmation letter from a prior J-1 sponsor).
    • Valid English language test scores (test results must be less than two years old):
      • TOEFL: iBT 61, CBT 173, PBT 500
      • IELTS: 6
      • MELAB: 77

January 31: For applicants intending to begin in the Fall or Summer intake.

September 15: For applicants intending to begin in the Spring intake of the following calendar year

Program Fees

There is no application charge at this time.

  • Initial sponsorship fee (up to 12 months) = $1500
  • Extension of sponsorship, per year = $500
  • Expedited processing service (optional) = $750
  • Enrollment group insurance
  • J-2 sponsorship fee, per dependent = $500
  • Individual insurance meeting minimum J-visa requirements = varies, from $75 – $200 per month
  • DS-2019 re-issuance fee = $50
  • Other Fees that must be paid during the J-1 Visa application:
    • $220 SEVIS Fee
    • $185 nonimmigration visa application fee

Visa Application Process

All visiting scholars must enter the United States with a J-1 visa (this rule does not apply to the U.S. citizens or permanent residents).

Visiting Scholars may enter the country up to 30 days prior to the start date of their J-1 program (the start date listed on the DS-2019 document). There is also a 30-day “grace period” after the conclusion of the visit during which bearers of J-1 visas can remain in the country.

Individuals accepted into the “Visiting Scholar Program” will be required to submit additional documentation to generate the DS-2019 Certificate, which is necessary for applying for a J-1 visa in their home country. An immigration advisor will be assigned to provide guidance throughout this process.

The following information and documents must be provided:

  • Proof of English Language Proficiency (one of the following):
    • Proof of citizenship from a country where English is an official language
    • Official diploma (scan or photocopy) from an institution where English is the language of instruction
    • Valid test scores (taken within the past two years):
      • TOEFL: iBT 61, CBT 173, PBT 500
      • IELTS: 6
      • MELAB: 77
    • Evidence of prior J-1 program participation (e.g., copy of a previous DS-2019 or a letter from a prior sponsor)
    • Interview with the designated immigration advisor (IIE)

In accordance with U.S. Government regulations, Visiting Scholars must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover expenses while in the United States. The current minimum funding requirements are:

  • $2,500 per month for the scholar (Scholars cannot be “self-funded” and must show some type of third-party financial support, either through host department wages, continued home employer salary, scholarship, fellowship / or government funding. Additional funding must be shown for J-2 dependent applications.

Acceptable documentation includes bank statements, scholarship award letters, or employer verification letters.

In addition, the following materials must be submitted:

  • Copy of the identification page of the applicant’s passport, as well as those of any accompanying spouse or dependents
  • Proof of payment of the administrative fees.
  • Copy of any DS-2019 forms from prior J-1 programs (if applicable)

Upon verification of all the documents. An immigration advisor will contact you.

Once the DS-2019 form has been issued, the admitted scholar must schedule an appointment at the nearest U.S. consulate. Visa application procedures and processing times vary by country; therefore, scholars should consult the local consulate for the most current requirements.

The following documents are typically required for the in-person visa interview:

  • DS-2019 form
  • Valid passport
  • Proof of financial resources
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • Any additional documents requested by the consulate

Visa processing fees are determined by the consulate and may differ by location. Scholars planning to bring a spouse or children must also provide passports, financial documentation, and photographs for each dependent.

Visiting Scholars at Florida Poly seeking to extend their J-1 status must first meet with their host department. Following this consultation, the scholar must submit an official extension request form for review. Approval is contingent on the sponsoring department’s recommendation. Scholars must also provide proof of adequate funding to cover the extended period of stay.

Joint PhD

This initiative offers support to doctoral candidates enrolled in Ph.D. programs at universities partners of Florida Polytechnic prestigious global network. Enabling them to conduct research and/or collect data for their dissertations through a collaborative supervisory arrangement. Each participant is jointly guided by their home institution advisor and a Florida Polytechnic University co-supervisor. Selected candidates spend one academic year at Florida Poly’s state-of-the-art research facilities, conducting dissertation research under the mentorship of their U.S. co-supervisor. Additionally, Florida Poly co-supervisors participate in the candidate’s Ph.D. thesis defense at their home institution.

  • Applicants must demonstrate an exemplary academic record.
  • Applicants are required to secure a Florida Poly faculty member willing to host and co-supervise their Ph.D. research for one academic year. The U.S. co-supervisor should have expertise aligned with the applicant’s field of study and dissertation focus.
  • Applicants must provide a formal letter of support from their home institution Ph.D. supervisor(s), including an evaluation of the proposed dissertation research and authorization for the candidate to travel to the U.S. to conduct research under the guidance of the Florida Poly co-supervisor.
  • Travel allowance
  • Monthly stipend
  • Health insurance coverage
  • J-1 Visa support
  1. Online Application Submission – Candidates submit a completed application along with all required supporting documents by the specified deadline.
  2. Application Review – All submissions undergo a thorough evaluation by the program committee.
  3. Shortlisting & Personal Interviews – Only shortlisted applicants are invited for personal interviews to assess qualifications and fit.
  4. Post-Interview Information Session – Candidates under further consideration attend an informational session outlining next steps.
  5. Official Notification – Applicants receive formal nomination or regret letters via email.
  6. Post-Nomination Orientation – Semi-finalists and alternates participate in an orientation to prepare for program requirements.
  7. Pre-Departure Orientation – Semi-finalists attend mandatory pre-departure briefings to finalize preparations.
  8. Program Departure – Selected candidates depart to participate in the program after completing all pre-departure requirements.

Global Partnerships

Florida Poly collaborates with institutions over the globe to advancing student engagement, research, and innovative solutions to shared global challenges.

The Office of Global Affairs drives the creation and expansion of reciprocal partnerships that leverage institutional strengths and foster new exchanges, joint initiatives, and cross-disciplinary research.

As a facilitator, strategist, and catalyst, we support Florida Poly faculty and staff in building, sustaining, and deepening relationships with international peers. By actively valuable opportunities on campus and abroad, we connect partners, cultivate collaboration, and amplify Florida Poly’s global impact.

Strategic Partners: 

At Florida Poly, strategic partnerships represent comprehensive collaborations that extend across disciplines, combining faculty and student exchanges, collaborative research, and long-term institutional commitment. Over the past decade, these partnerships have been carefully built and strengthened, creating lasting global impact.

Our current strategic partners include:

  • Charlemagne Prize Academy
  • Fulbright
  • AFEKA – Israel
  • IDIADA – Spain

Connect with an International Partner:

Members of the Florida Poly community interested in pursuing international collaboration can leverage our established global network as a foundation. The Office of Global Affairs is here to facilitate new connections and provide guidance on existing partnerships.

For international universities, research institutions, or corporate organizations seeking to partner with Florida Polytechnic University, please reach out to:

Mustapha Achoubane
Senior Global Affairs Officer
machoubane@floridapoly.edu
Phone: 863.774.8620

Visit Florida Poly:

We deliver comprehensive support for campus units welcoming international visitors—from partner university delegations to representatives of foreign governments. At the same time, we assist faculty and administrators preparing for travel abroad, equipping them to strengthen partnerships and advance impactful global collaboration

Fulbright Scholars Program

The Fulbright Scholars Program is one of the most prestigious awards that provide distinguished opportunities for faculty and students to enhance their scholarly and career development. The Fulbright Program is the flagship international educational exchange program, which has been sponsored by the U.S. government since 1946 and is designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries.

  • 40 Heads of State or Government
  • 76 MacArthur Foundation Fellows
  • 89 Pulitzer Prize Recipients
  • 61 Nobel Prize Laureates

Florida Poly Faculty

Faculty interested in applying to the Fulbright Program may participate during the summer semesters only. Please note that the University does not provide financial support for participation in the Fulbright Program.

Eligibility Criteria

To participate in the Fulbright Program, a faculty member must:

  • Be an Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, or Professor at Florida Poly
  • Complete the application process as described below
  • Meet all Fulbright eligibility requirements
  • Not be in the terminal year of their faculty contract

Note: Florida Poly staff are not eligible to participate in this program.

  • Consultation: Prior to submitting a Florida Poly Fulbright Enrollment Form, a faculty member must consult with their Department Chair and the Provost.
  • Meeting: A faculty member must schedule a meeting with Global Affairs officials for guidance.
  • Enrollment Form. A faculty member must submit an Enrollment Form at least 45 days before the application deadline of the Fulbright Program to which they are applying to Global Affairs.
  • Pre-approval: Global Affairs will work with the Department Chairs and the Provost Office to seek recommendations to be presented to the President for approval.
  • Official Application: After receiving full approval of the Enrollment Form, the faculty member must submit the official application through the Fulbright application portal.
  • Grant Award Notification: The faculty member must inform International Affairs, their Department Chair, the provost, and the president if they are accepted into the Fulbright Program.
  • Travel Authorization and Risk Assessment: The faculty member must submit a Travel SA form prior to their departure on the Fulbright assignment and meet with the Office of Risk Assessment Office. Notification will be sent to the president’s office. Please see University policy FPU-6.0740P Faculty, Staff, and Student International Travel for more information.

Upon returning from the Fulbright Program, the faculty member must:

  • Remain at Florida Poly for at least one academic year unless an exception is approved in writing by the provost before accepting the grant.
  • Submit a detailed report on their Fulbright activities to the Global Affairs Office.
  • Serve as a periodic reviewer for Florida Poly Fulbright applications for two years after completing the grant.
  • Actively support and promote the Fulbright program on campus.

Education Abroad Programs

Florida Poly offers a variety of direct exchange and education abroad opportunities designed to expand students’ global perspectives and enhance their academic experience. Through partnerships with international institutions and organizations, students can engage in immersive learning experiences, cultural exchange, research opportunities, and study abroad programs that support both personal growth and career readiness in an increasingly connected world.

Direct Exchange

  1. Complete and submit the online application to attend Florida Polytechnic University
  2. Provide official transcripts from your home institution, translated into English.
  3. Submit proof of English language proficiency. Applicants must present results from at least one recognized English proficiency examinations (TOEFL, IELTS, or MELAB). Accepted minimum scores (taken within the last two years):
    • TOEFL: iBT 61, CBT 173, PBT 500
    • IELTS: 6
    • MELAB: 77

Application Opens: August 1

Admissions Decision: 

Before beginning your academic journey at Florida Polytechnic University, admitted exchange students must:

  • Obtain a J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa
  • Maintain valid health insurance coverage
  • Secure on-campus housing accommodations
  • Register for courses through the university system

Study Abroad Programs

The Killam Fellowship Program, administered by Fulbright Canada, provides undergraduate students from U.S. universities with the opportunity to pursue an exchange experience at a Canadian partner institution for either one semester or a full academic year.

Florida Polytechnic University students may participate as direct exchange students, which allows them to remain registered at Florida Poly, pay home tuition and fees, and study at a Canadian host university as an exchange visitor.

Participants in the program receive a financial award of $6,000 USD per semester, health insurance coverage, and may also compete for a travel grant of up to $800 CAD. The program further enriches the academic experience through two enhancement seminars, held in Ottawa, ON (fall) and Washington, D.C. (spring).

Upon completion, students join the Fulbright Canada alumni network, gaining access to internships, professional development, and additional award opportunities.

Florida Poly students must submit the study abroad program application and must be nominated by their department. 

The Fulbright Canada-Mitacs Globalink Research Internship offers outstanding U.S. undergraduate students the opportunity to participate in a 10- to 12-week research internship at a Canadian university, working under the supervision of faculty members across a wide range of academic fields, including science, engineering, and mathematics.

Mitacs, a federally funded national not-for-profit organization, has been at the forefront of research and training in Canada for over 20 years. In collaboration with 70 universities, 6,000 industry partners, and both federal and provincial governments, Mitacs plays a pivotal role in advancing industrial and social innovation across the country.

The Fulbright Canada–Mitacs Globalink Research Internship offers students:

  • An unparalleled opportunity to gain international academic and cultural experience in Canada
  • A dynamic program that combines cutting-edge research at leading Canadian universities with professional development workshops and enriching social activities
  • Direct engagement with potential graduate supervisors, creating pathways for future studies in Canada through the Fulbright Canada Graduate Fellowship
  • A grant of up to CAD $9,000 to support participation

Florida Poly students must submit the study abroad program application and must be nominated by their department. 

The Global Intern Program (GIP) at Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) offers students a unique summer research experience in Korea. During the eight-week program, participants work directly within a research lab, gaining hands-on experience and personalized mentorship from faculty and researchers while engaging in cutting-edge scientific and technological research.

Program Benefits:

  • Intern and conduct research with a lab from any of GIST’s eight Graduate Schools
  • Gain valuable experience presenting your research during a poster session
  • Broaden your perspective through customized GIP special lectures and classes
  • Learn Korean language and culture in an intensive Korean class
  • Receive reimbursement for half of your round-trip airfare to Korea
  • Enjoy a monthly stipend during your internship
  • Stay in dormitory accommodations provided by GIST
  • Make new friends and connect with fellow GIP interns from around the world

Florida Poly students must submit the study abroad program application and must be nominated by their department. 

Contact Us
863-874-8428  |  international@floridapoly.edu

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Session Details

This session will demonstrate that practical risk management is for everyone, regardless of a formal program. Attendees will learn actionable and simple strategies that are easy to implement, enabling them to start immediately by focusing on their top risks to build greater operational resilience and ensure the sustained success of their auxiliary enterprises.

Presenter Profile

Michelle Powell serves as the pioneering Risk Manager at Florida Polytechnic University, the state’s sole 100% STEM-dedicated institution. Having been with the university for nearly 11 years, Michelle transitioned from a leadership role in Admissions in October 2023 to establish and evolve the risk management function from the ground up. In this solo capacity, Michelle builds robust frameworks for our dynamic, young university, overseeing our insurance portfolio, consulting on third-party and event risks, and developing critical campus-wide training programs. Michelle has obtained the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (COSO) Enterprise Risk Management certificate and the Associate in Risk Management (ARM) and Construction Risk and Insurance Specialist (CRIS) designations. Her distinct background in mathematics and engineering, combined with extensive higher education leadership, brings an analytical and strategic approach enhancing the institution’s resilience.

Dr. Lily Li is a Professor of Physics at Florida Polytechnic University, where she specializes in materials science, analytical imaging, advanced manufacturing, and biomedical devices. Prior to joining Florida Poly in 2025, she spent 11 years at SUNY Potsdam, where she advanced to Full Professor and developed a 3-2 Engineering dual-degree program with Clarkson University. Her work emphasizes experiential learning and research-driven education to prepare students for careers in STEM fields.