Staff from the U.S. Department of State, Fulbright, Mobility International USA (MIUSA), and a Fulbright alum speak about access to Fulbright for applicants with disabilities.
“This year in fact because of the 25th anniversary of the ADA, it is letting us take more of a focus on making sure we’re reaching out to people with disabilities. We want you to apply for Fulbrights and take advantage of the opportunity and gain from the program like everyone else can. It is important that that happens.”- David Levin, U.S. Department of State
Key points from MIUSA:
- Fulbright health coverage is considered a supplementary insurance and is great coverage for any injuries and accidents that are unrelated to any preexisting conditions. It is really important if you do get selected as a Fulbright grantee, you maintain your primary coverage or find another alternative that will cover preexisting conditions.
- Medicaid does not go abroad, and social security income, for instance, will generally stop when you go abroad and will need to be reinstated when you return home.
- If you’re selected as a Fulbright grantee, they’ll work with you on your accommodations. You do not have to include this expense on your budget outline for the Fulbright award.
“Why should you be a Fulbrighter? If you’ve dreamt about it, life is short. You need to go. You need to apply. You need to try.” -Christie Gilson, Fulbright alumna who is blind and appointed to the Fulbright Board
