The University of Tennessee, Knoxville is pleased to announce the Exploration Grant Program for undergraduate students aiming to pursue nationally competitive fellowships such as the Fulbright. This grant provides funding of up to $5,000 to support international travel for students seeking to establish academic and professional affiliations abroad
The Exploration Grant Program is open to full-time undergraduate students at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with a preference for rising juniors and seniors. Applicants must demonstrate strong academic credentials and a clear plan to pursue nationally competitive postgraduate scholarships such as the Fulbright. While there is no minimum GPA requirement, candidates should meet the eligibility standards of their intended fellowship. Successful applicants must propose a feasible travel plan, identify potential host institutions or individuals abroad, and secure one faculty letter of recommendation.
Founded in 1794, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) is a public research university in Knoxville, Tennessee. As the flagship campus of the UT system, it enrolls over 31,000 students and offers more than 900 programs across 11 colleges. Known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and agriculture, UTK is a member of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and boasts a vibrant campus life with a rich athletic tradition, particularly in football.
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Information
Founded in 1794, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large town of Knoxville (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Tennessee. This institution has also branch campuses in the following location(s): Chattanooga, Memphis, Martin, Tullahoma. Officially accredited and/or recognized by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) is a very large (uniRank enrollment range: 30,000-34,999 students) coeducational higher education institution. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study matrix below for further details. This 225 years old higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic record and grades. The admission rate range is 70-80% making this US higher education organization a somewhat selective institution. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.
Offered Benefits
• Funding up to $5,000 to support international exploratory travel
• Scholars receive international insurance through CISI
• Designation as a University of Tennessee Knoxville Exploration Scholar
• Required pre-departure and post-return support and training to prepare for national scholarship applications
• The opportunity to establish meaningful academic and professional connections abroad.
Application Process
• Submit the completed online application form, including short responses, and upload your current resume or CV
• Request one confidential faculty letter of recommendation to be submitted to within one week of your application deadline
• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the final deadline of May 15th
• The application portal can be accessed via the UT Office of Undergraduate Research & Fellowships website