How a Tunisian Educator Secured the Fully Funded Fulbright FLTA Scholarship at the University of Iowa

My name is Tarek Chaouch, and I’m from Kelibia, Tunisia. I have a deep passion for education, dialogue, and cross-cultural understanding. Over the past few years, I’ve been fortunate to teach and mentor in Tunisia, Turkey, the United States, and online. My academic and professional journey has always centered around language education, cultural and political research, NGO management, communication, international exchange, and curriculum development, assessment, and implementation.

Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant Scholarship Details

I was awarded the Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA) Scholarship, a prestigious and competitive program funded by the U.S. Department of State and administered by the International Institute of Education (IIE) in partnership with the Fulbright Commission in Tunisia. I was placed at the University of Iowa in Iowa City, where I taught Arabic as a teaching assistant and enrolled in four graduate-level courses in education and the Humanities.

The scholarship covered all major expenses, including university tuition, health insurance, and international travel arrangements to and from the United States. Given the cost of four graduate-level courses at a major U.S. institution, combined with travel and living support, the estimated total value of the scholarship is between $35,000 and $45,000 USD. It can cost more depending on your placement in the USA and the college or university to which you are admitted.

This opportunity not only enriched my academic and professional journey but also strengthened my dedication to cross-cultural education and global dialogue.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Iowa?

I took a strategic approach, researching universities and programs that aligned with my academic goals and professional experiences from the list I was offered. I used official websites, EducationUSA advising centers, and online forums to gather reliable information. For English proficiency, I relied on my strong academic background and teaching experience, but I also reviewed TOEFL materials and practiced academic writing and speaking tasks tailored to the TOEFL examination to stay sharp.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant Scholarship?

I started by carefully studying the selection criteria and guidelines. I brainstormed key stories from the training I received and my teaching career, especially my work in intercultural and international settings. I also reflected on the community engagement I had done with NGOs, along with my leadership, networking, and volunteer work. I drafted essays that showed both passion and purpose, with clear links between my experiences and future goals. I also sought feedback from mentors and peers to refine my application.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe what made my application unique was the blend of local and international teaching experiences, combined with a clear vision for academic achievement. My sustained involvement in cross-cultural dialogue also demonstrated a long-standing commitment to building bridges through education, something I tied back to my scholarship goals and my role as a cultural ambassador of Tunisia, which is a core focus of the Fulbright program.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

If I were to go through the process again, I would start the preparation much earlier, particularly with regard to collecting recommendation letters and revising personal statements. Giving myself more time would have allowed for deeper reflection and more rounds of feedback to further strengthen my application.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

Start early and be authentic. Take the time to reflect on your story—your motivations, challenges, and the impact you want to make. Find programs and scholarships that genuinely align with your goals. Reach out to alumni or current scholars for guidance, and don’t underestimate the power of storytelling in your essays. Show not only what you’ve done, but why it matters—and how it shapes your future path.