FAQ

Eligibility

Are fellowships open to international students?

Most Fellowship programs are open to international students. Check program eligibility.

Can I apply for a fellowship if I am a current Smithsonian employee or contractor?

There is a one year waiting period between when you end your employment or contract before you are eligible to apply.

Applying

Where do I submit my application?

Please be sure to read the information and guidelines on the website prior to filling out the application in SOLAA.  The link to the guidelines will be included in the materials in SOLAA but not the information. The Smithsonian Online Academic Appointment System (SOLAA)

My reference letter writer is having trouble uploading their letter to the Smithsonian Online Academic Appointment System (SOLAA). What should I do?

Please contact 202-633-4000 or OCIOServiceDesk@si.edu and include “SOLAA” in the subject line of your email.

Do my reference letters have to be submitted before I submit my application in SOLAA?

If your program requires reference letters, your referee will still be able to upload their letter shortly after you submit your application. As a reminder, you should check your application in SOLAA to see if your references have been submitted.

My referee did not receive an email from SOLAA to upload their reference letter. What do I do?

If one of your referees does not see the email request from SOLAA (solaa_sc@si.edu), please advise them to double check their spam/junk mail. If they are still not able to locate the email request, please contact 202-633-4000 or OCIOServiceDesk@si.edu and include “SOLAA” in the subject line of your email.

Virtual Appointments

Which fellowships can be carried out virtually?

Check with specific program and unit contacts to determine if the fellowship in question can be carried out virtually.

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