International conferences are an excellent way for academicians, scholars, and researchers to meet, learn, and exchange revolutionary ideas on their topic of interest. It is also an opportunity for the attendees to form new relationships and strengthen their existing ones. However, traveling to an international conference requires some funds.
How to Get Funds for International Conference
For a fully funded conference, you need a travel grant. But the question is, how do you obtain it?
Here, we will discuss that in detail, but before that, let’s know what a travel grant is.
What is a travel grant for an international conference?
A travel grant for an international conference is financial support provided to individuals who wish to attend conferences outside their home country. These grants cover the costs associated with travel, accommodation, registration fees, and other related expenses.
Organizations, institutions, foundations, government agencies, or conference organizers typically offer travel grants. It aims to support individuals who demonstrate academic or professional excellence and are intensely interested in participating in international conferences relevant to their field of study or work.
The primary purpose of a travel grant is to facilitate knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration among researchers, scholars, professionals, and students from different parts of the world. By providing financial assistance, these grants enable individuals with insufficient personal funds to attend conferences and benefit from valuable learning, presenting research findings, and connecting with peers and experts in their field.
How to obtain a travel grant?
Receiving a travel grant for an international conference typically involves a competitive application process. Here are some steps to securing a travel grant.
Research available grants
Research various organizations, institutions, foundations, and government agencies offering international conference travel grants. Look for grants tailored to your field of study or the conference you plan to attend. Websites, scholarship databases, and professional associations are good places to find relevant opportunities.
Review eligibility criteria
Carefully review the eligibility criteria for each travel grant you’re interested in, as every provider has different requirements. Some providers give travel grant for international students, while others may have specific geographical or academic needs. Grants may be awarded based on a competitive application process, considering factors such as the applicant’s qualifications, research contributions, the potential impact of conference participation, and the alignment of the conference with the applicant’s field of study or professional goals. So, ensure you meet the requirements before proceeding with the application.
Prepare a compelling application
Take the time to create a robust application that demonstrates your qualifications, research, and motivation for attending the conference. Some standard components of a travel grant application may include a personal statement, curriculum vitae (CV), research abstract, budget proposal, and letters of recommendation. Tailor your application to the specific grant and emphasize how attending the conference will benefit your academic or professional development.
Seek support from your institution.
Consult with your academic advisor, department, or institution’s funding office. They may have information about available travel grants or be able to guide the application process. They can also offer feedback on your application materials and help strengthen your candidacy.
Plan your budget
Create a detailed budget outlining the estimated expenses for attending the conference, including travel, accommodation, conference registration fees, meals, and any additional costs. Demonstrating a well-thought-out budget will show the grant provider that you have carefully considered your financial needs.
Submit your application on time.
Pay close attention to application deadlines and submit your materials well in advance. Only on-time applications are typically accepted. Please double-check that you have included all the required documents and that they meet the formatting and submission guidelines provided by the grant provider.
After submitting your application, consider emailing the grant provider to confirm that they received your materials. Please inquire about the timeline for decision notifications, as it shows your continued interest and professionalism.
Remember, competition for travel grants can be intense, so applying for various grants and exploring alternative funding sources is vital. Persistence and thorough preparation will increase your chances of receiving a travel grant to attend an international conference.
How to Write an Email for a Travel Grant?
To obtain a travel grant for international conference for Indian students, you must send an application to the organizations offering the grant and mention your justification for it. Some organizations provide a list of rules for writing the application letter. Make sure to follow them.
Alternatively, you can use the format below for writing the application letter.
How to Write a Cover Letter for Travel Grant?
You also need to submit a cover letter for the travel grant. Here are the steps to follow to write the same.
Use a standard header – include the contact details, the date you sent the letter, and the recipient’s contact details.
Self-introduction – write the title, purpose, values, and establishment of your organization.
Conference purpose – mention the purpose of attending the conference.
Reasons for funding – explain the reason why you require financing. Also, mention the amount needed and how you plan to use it.
Impact of funding – highlight the positives of attending the conference and how it is helpful for society.
Conclusion – add a formal closing statement to conclude the cover letter.
Final Thoughts
Receiving a travel grant for an international conference can be a prestigious opportunity that supports an individual financially and enhances their academic or professional development. It enables participants to broaden their perspectives, share knowledge, gain exposure to cutting-edge research, establish collaborations, and build a global network within their field of interest.
If you need to find upcoming conferences in your research field or require assistance applying for a travel grant, Conference Next can help. Connect with us today.