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NAVIGATION

Global Challenges Teaching Awards

The Global Challenges Teaching Awards support pairs of teaching faculty—one at a US higher education institution (HEI) and one at a UK HEI—in co-delivering virtual exchange programs for undergraduates that contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. 

Since the launch of the Fulbright Global Challenges Teaching Awards, we have brought together educators from across all regions and nations of the US and UK to collaborate on critical issues, support their students to become global citizens, and deepen sustainable partnerships between the US and the UK. 

The catastrophic impacts of climate change are evident across the globe, with global carbon emissions reaching a record high in 2025. Social determinants, such as where we live and our access to power, money and resources, continue to deepen global health inequalities.  Growing lack of trust in democratic institutions and a rise in societal division threatens progress toward a just and peaceful world.

This cycle, the Global Challenges Teaching Awards will support pairs of teaching faculty focusing on three key global challenges:

Through the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) model, these awards aim to expand access to global exchange opportunities by addressing the limitations of traditional in-person exchanges, which can face economic and environmental challenges. By embracing virtual exchange, we aim to better address the urgency and relevance of these global challenges.  

How to apply

1. Review eligibility criteria

 

To be eligible for the Global Challenges Teaching Award, you must meet the following requirements: 

  1. Be employed by a university or higher education institution (HEI) in the US or the UK, or their overseas territories
  2. Regularly teach undergraduates as part of your role at the university, and apply with a course that is primarily aimed at undergraduates. Proposed classes should be scheduled for teaching in the fall/autumn term of academic year 2027-28 (i.e., beginning September 2027). 
  3. Be able to provide evidence of support from your university or HEI. 

We welcome applications from non-US and UK citizens employed at UK and US HEIs. We are aware that some applicants may not be eligible for entry via an ESTA or ETA, and welcome applications from those who hold or who will apply for a different entry clearance such as a B1/B2 visa or a Standard Visitor visa. 

Successful applicants will be responsible for organising and applying for their visa to the US or UK in line with UK and US travel and visa requirements, and we encourage applicants to consult these regulations before applying. For further guidance, please contact programmes@fulbright.org.uk.   

While we welcome applications from institutions and applicants with prior COIL experience, we encourage applications from those seeking to establish or expand their international collaboration efforts. 

Previous Fulbright Scholar award recipients are eligible to apply provided their Fulbright Scholar award is completed prior to the cohort orientation (i.e., before August 2026). 

For further eligibility criteria, please see the Global Challenges Teaching Award application information below.

2. Review application information

 

Read the Global Challenges Teaching Award application information (this document will be available when applications open.) 

Review the Fulbright Commission privacy notice

Ensure you familiarise yourself with the specific information related to the award you are applying for by reviewing the award webpages.

3. Apply online

 

Applications are currently closed, and will open for 2026-27 in December 2025.

A complete application includes:

  • Biographical, educational, and employment details
  • Information on your proposed class
  • Information on your familiarity with COIL/VE
  • Information if you are applying with a preferred partner
  • Short-answer questions.
  • One reference
  • Completed supplemental form 

You must also upload the follow documents: 

  • Teaching-focused Curriculum Vitae/Resume.
  • Class Syllabus
  • One letter of support from your International Office (or equivalent) 
  • One letter of support from your Department Head 

Application Timeline

December 2025

Applications open

March 2026

Deadline for applications

March - May 2026

Applications will be screened by the US-UK Fulbright Commission, followed by review by reading panels. During this period, you should not expect to hear from the Commission, and staff will not be able to comment on the process or status of individual applications.

May - June 2026

Shortlisted candidates invited to interviews, which will be held online before end of May 2026. Candidates not selected for an interview will be notified via email by end of May 2026.

June - July 2026

Partnering process for finalist candidates. All candidates will be notified of the interview outcome.

August - October 2026

Orientation and professional development training

October 2026 - August 2027

Ongoing mentoring and independent visits to partners

Autumn 2027

Course delivery with your partner