Funding for Student Conference Travel
Beyond Barnard supports students who are selected to attend or present at professional conferences, with particular emphasis on conferences related to major concentrations and/or chosen paths. Attendance at a range of conferences that align with student professional and intellectual interests has become an increasingly important element of the undergraduate experience. Beyond Barnard is committed to reducing the cost burden of attendance. Funding is provided by the Tow Special Professional Opportunities Fund.
To apply for travel, students are required to fill out this form and obtain a brief letter of support from a faculty member. Questions? Email beyondbarnard@barnard.edu.
Applying for Conference Funding
Tow Special Professional Opportunities applications and all required application materials are due in Beyond Barnard 30 days prior to the conference start date. Please Note: Funds are on a first-come, first-served application consideration basis.
All Barnard College students, except students who are currently or were previously recipients of Tow Special Professional Opportunities Funds, are eligible to apply for these grants.
To be considered for a grant, students will be required to submit:
1. The Tow Special Professional Opportunities Fund application (with a budget of anticipated expenses)
2. A letter of support from faculty, instructors or major adviser
3. All receipts within 72 hours of completion of the conference schedule
Students should submit a completed application, along with a copy of their résumé. Applications should be submitted at least 30 calendar days prior to any event registration deadlines.
The amount of the grant awards will vary depending on each student’s request and the funding available. Students attending a conference are eligible to be considered for awards up to $250. Students presenting at a conference are eligible to to be considered for awards up to $500. Special review and consideration of award funds will be granted to students who demonstrate as high need through Barnard College Financial Aid.
Grantees will receive checks within 30 days of submission of Tow application with anticipated budget of expenses and faculty, instructor or major advisor letter of support (see Selection Criteria above).
Applications for the 2023-2024 academic year are now open. Students should submit a completed application, along with a copy of their résumé and a letter of support from a Barnard College faculty member expressing how the conference ties to the student's studies or career aspirations.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Students will be notified of grant decisions via e-mail within 10 business days of submission of all required materials.
Grantees are expected to fulfill a number of requirements, including:
- Preparing “thank you” notes for the grant donors
- Completing an online evaluation form