Graduate Travel Support Program

The Grad Flights Program is undergoing changes to its processes. During this time, we are unable to accept new submissions until further notice. We are advising students to secure other methods of funding for their transportation needs.

The Office of the Provost offers limited travel support for graduate students seeking an academic degree (academic PhD or research-based Master’s) to support their career development.

The program provides airline flight vouchers earned by Tufts University through the utilization of a rewards program linked to preferred vendors. Flight awards are subject to availability. Applications should be submitted as early as possible before a trip and are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Possible scenarios in which the case can be made for support in furtherance of career development are:

• giving a talk at a conference
• participating in a national disciplinary meeting that is also a vehicle for the academic job market
• undertaking dissertation research at the destination

Application Process

Students should complete a Graduate SkyMiles Application and obtain the necessary signatures and documentation required to apply for funding.

Completed applications should be sent to the Office of the Provost by the graduate dean of the student’s school or his/her designate (or the director of the pertinent university-wide center, if appropriate) to gradflights@tufts.edu.  Included with the application should be:

• a letter of recommendation for funding from the student’s advisor, which makes clear how this trip supports the career development of the traveler
• an explanation of why air fare funding from the school or a grant is unavailable
• authorization for charging ancillary taxes, airline fees, and a $50 travel agency booking fee, (school or department Dept ID or grant, if allowable)
• as much lead time prior to the proposed trip as possible
• the traveler’s (included on the application)
  • Full Name
  • Email address
  • Itinerary (e.g. destination, dates, and any other preferences)
  • Information on itinerary flexibility (such as “or one day before” or “or up to 2 days after”)

Applicants and their supporters will be notified of the result of their applications in as timely a manner as possible.

Additional considerations

Approval of the award does not imply the availability of flights, which is as limited as when booking with personal frequent-flyer miles.

Within thirty days after return from the trip, the traveler is required to submit a brief report to the Office of the Provost and to their respective School’s contact. Any overdue or outstanding reports must be received by the provost’s office before any new applications from that School will be considered.

Prior to releasing any funds, students must show proof that they are complying with the university’s travel safety policy through either showing proof of registration or, if applicable, ITRC approval. Information regarding the policy can be found here.

General questions about the Graduate Travel Support Program can be addressed to gradflights@tufts.edu.