Dear Rotary scholars,

Rotary is monitoring the spread of COVID-19 closely to ensure the health and safety of all program participants. Countries listed at Level 3 by the CDC (currently China, Iran, South Korea, United Kingdom, Ireland, and Schengen countries**) have been added to Rotary’s travel ban list, and all non-essential travel to, from, or through those countries is restricted for Rotary staff and scholars. This list is updated regularly, so be sure to check back for the latest information.

In addition, the Foundation has cancelled all grant-funded travel for the months of March and April while we monitor this rapidly changing situation. The only exception to this prohibition relates to scholars. You may use your travel funds to return home, should that be required by your university or simply because you choose to do so. We want you to be safe and feel comfortable.

If your university has moved to online instruction for your program, you are welcome to pursue those online studies and use any living expenses that were included in your scholarship either in your home country or abroad. Please note that this option may have tax implications in your home country, and it is your responsibility to determine what those are and comply with them.

For those of you who are staying abroad, please note that global grant scholars should exercise discretion if planning travel to or through level 2 countries (currently Japan). Scholars currently in a country experiencing spread of the virus are advised to follow the recommendations of their host university and the country’s national health agencies.

We wish you the very best during this uncertain time. Please feel free to contact your regional grants officer at the Foundation if you have questions.

Kind regards,

Abby McNear
Director of Grants
Tel 1.847.425.5656
rotary.org

ONE ROTARY CENTER
1560 SHERMAN AVENUE
EVANSTON, ILLINOIS 60201-3698 USA
ROTARY.ORG