Presenting at a disciplinary meeting/conference is an important way for graduate students to introduce themselves to the profession and establish valuable networks. Additionally, it enhances the academic reputation of the student’s graduate program and university at large.

In recognition of this, the Provost’s Office offers support through the Graduate Student Travel Grants. The goal of these grants is to assist with preparation and travel expenses of graduate students who are presenting at a regional, national, or international professional meeting/conference. Presentations include talks, posters, exhibits, and performances. Mere attendance at professional meetings or informal participation in workshops, seminars, discussion panels, or short courses are not eligible for funding.

Expenses that will be covered by the grant include expenses associated with the purchase of presentation materials, travel to the event, registration fees, and accommodation charges. These may be reimbursed with typical awards totaling $200 per student for AY 2024-25. Please note that costs related to food and optional activities (such as workshops, excursions, and spousal expenses) are not eligible for reimbursement. Eligibility for this award is limited to matriculated graduate students who are currently enrolled and in good academic standing. For students presenting in a group, each presenter requesting funding must complete and submit their own application.

For consideration for funding in the Spring semester, applications must be submitted by March 3 and decisions will be communicated by March 17.

It is important to note that students should anticipate receiving no more than one award per academic year.

Students who receive funding to present talks, posters, performances, or exhibits are expected to share their work with the University community at the Graduate Research/Creativity Symposium held on campus every year in late April.

The application must include the following:

1.    Completed application (see below).

2.    Documentation verifying acceptance to participate in the professional meeting/event; Proof of acceptance could include -

a.    A meeting/event program with the applicant’s name printed as a presenter, or

b.    An email from host organization stating the applicant’s acceptance as a presenter.

3.    The Director of Graduate Student Experience will notify the applicant within 3 weeks of the deadline whether they are eligible for the award and if there are sufficient funds to support the effort.

4.    Within 30 days of the meeting, the graduate student must complete a University Travel Expense Voucher (TEV) and attach original receipts for all expenses incurred. If the meeting/events program was not submitted with the application, then it should be included with the travel reimbursement form.

Please contact Ann Brown (annbrown@hartford.edu) with questions. Allow thirty business days after successful submission for reimbursement of funds.