Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a stipend or scholarship for this program?
Yes. Thanks to the generous support of the Richard and Rhoda Goldman Fund, we will provide a scholarship of $2,500 to participating HIA Fellows and Senior Fellows.

Can HIA provide any assistance if I am applying for additional funding?
Yes. HIA is always delighted to write a letter of endorsement supporting your funding requests. Additionally, you may wish to consult our archive of international scholarship opportunities, which is developed and maintained by Senior Fellow volunteers.

What is a reasonable budget for living in San Francisco?
Based on feedback from past Fellows, we estimate monthly expenses to be about $1,500 a month. These costs can cover modest expenses for: housing, food, transportation within San Francisco, phone, and social life. Please note that HIA will not be able to provide additional funding for the cost of your airfare to San Francisco.

I am not an HIA Fellow or Senior Fellow. Can I apply for this program?
Unfortunately, this program is only offered to HIA Fellows and is not available for students or young professionals outside of HIA.

I'm not a U.S. citizen. How do I obtain a visa?
HIA is authorized to issue the paperwork required to obtain a J-1 intern visa from the U.S. consulate in your home country. All you will need is proof that you have medical insurance while in the United States and sufficient funding to cover your expenses. The J-1 intern visa is for current students or recent graduates (you must have graduated within the past year to qualify).

If I am accepted, at what point will I learn where I will be working?
Placement assignments are often not available until shortly before the program begins. If you are accepted into this program, you must commit to the fellowship without knowing which specific organization will be hosting you. HIA will do its best to tailor the work placements to the professional interests and experience of participating Senior Fellows.

Will HIA help me find housing in San Francisco?
No, HIA does not have the capacity to find housing for participants. However, there is a network of HIA Senior Fellows in San Francisco that may be able to assist you. HIA Fellows who participated in the 2009 San Francisco program will also be very helpful with advice and their contacts.

Who do I contact for more information?
For further questions, please contact Pamela Rykowski at p.rykowski@humanityinaction.org.