The Falcon EXPLORE Fund at Bentley University aims to support students in their academic, cultural, and professional development by providing financial assistance for travel related to academic conferences and competitions, research presentations, leadership and career development opportunities, cultural experiences, and other educational activities. Access to these experiential learning opportunities will encourage lifelong learning and help ensure that students will be well-prepared for a successful future after Bentley.
Eligibility
All full-time undergraduate and graduate students in good academic and conduct standing are eligible to apply.
Travel must be for the purpose of presenting academic research, attending local, national, or virtual conferences, participating in cultural or career development opportunities, or participating in educational activities directly related to the student’s field of study.
Students may only receive Bentley-funded travel support once per fiscal year, defined as July 1 through June 30.
Graduating seniors are not eligible for travel funding after their graduation date.
Application Process
- Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis throughout the academic year. Applications are reviewed monthly by a committee of representatives across the institution.
- The application must include:
- A completed EXPLORE Fund Request Form, which includes a description of the engagement opportunity, including a detailed explanation of how the opportunity will support, enhance, enrich, and/or positively impact the student(s) academic experience.
- A letter (or similar communication) of support from a faculty or staff sponsor.
- A detailed budget outlining the estimated costs of travel, accommodation, and registration fees. If upfront financial assistance is required, please include that information with the budget.
- Proof of acceptance to present or participate in the event (if applicable).
- Financial need, prior receipt of travel support, and class year may be considered in the review process.
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Important Information
- Prepaid expenses, such as airfare, conference registration, and prepaid hotel rooms can be submitted for reimbursement prior to travel. Recipients must submit all receipts within 30 days of returning from the trip.
- Reimbursements will be processed within 10 business days of receipt submission.
- Failure to submit the required documentation may result in the forfeiture of funds.
- Payee must ensure their payment information is up to date and accurate in Workday. Instructions for payment verification can be found here.
- Students are responsible for ensuring that their travel complies with Bentley University’s travel policies and guidelines.
- Students are required to adhere to the Bentley Code of Conduct/Student Handbook for the duration of their travel. As a representative of Bentley, students must remain cognizant of their behavior.
- Should the student be missing something on campus (be it an interview, a test, a work shift, a sporting event, etc.), it is their responsibility to make their own necessary makeup arrangements. Bentley is not responsible for exempting students from any academic commitments.
- Students must notify explorefund@bentley.edu if the full award is not spent to ensure that funding can support as many students as possible.
- Students must submit an impact statement within 30 days of travel. More specific guidance will be provided upon acceptance.
- Applications will be reviewed monthly by the Falcon EXPLORE Fund Committee, which includes faculty and administrative staff.
- Decisions will be communicated to applicants via email.
Contact Information: For inquiries regarding the Falcon EXPLORE Fund, please email explorefund@bentley.edu.