Russian Academic Renewal and Exchange Program: U.S.-RAR

Join us in developing the future of Russian higher education!

Applications are now closed. Finalists have been selected

Apply now to contribute to cutting-edge courses designed to foster knowledge, critical thinking, and collaboration across borders.

Who we are

About the Program

U.S.-RAR is a unique initiative designed to support the creation of university courses that open new doors for Russian students. Through collaboration with U.S. faculty, Russian university teachers will develop courses that engage students with diverse perspectives on global issues.

These courses, offered by select institutions in exile, will cover dynamic subjects related to a range of subjects, including freedom of expression, that are relevant to Russians and Americans. With a focus on academic freedom, the U.S.-RAR Program equips students with the tools they need to thrive in a globalized world and engage with complex, real-world dynamics.

Highlights

Program Highlights

4 partner institutions

- Free University in Latvia
- Faculty of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Montenegro
- Smolny Beyond Borders, Germany
- Bazaleti Unversity, Georgia

- Additional partner institutions eligible if they work as institutions in exile.

U.S. faculty members
20 new courses
Academic Teaching and Course Development Workshop in Washington, DC
20 Russian professors
Activities

Timeline of Activities

April 2025

Final Selection and Award Notification

May-July 2025

U.S. Professor Pairing and Fellowship Contract Signing

mid-May – mid-October 2025

Course Development Fellowship Period

Fall 2025-Spring 2026

Course Launch

October 24-26, 2025

Advanced Course Development and Academic Teaching Workshop , Bard College, NY

U.S. Peer Partners

20 U.S. faculty members from institutions including Stanford University, Columbia University, George Washington University, City College of New York, University of Richmond, University of Maryland and Bard College are supporting fellows through one-on-one collaboration.

Through this collaboration, U.S. peer partners will offer feedback on the course learning objectives and outcomes, syllabus structure, assessment strategies, key readings, multimedia resources, case studie and instructional materials to ensure alignment between course content and international academic standards.

Criteria

Eligibility Criteria

We are looking for passionate educators who are dedicated to advancing higher education and expanding opportunities for Russian students. To be eligible for the U.S-RAR Program, you must:

Be a citizen of Russia residing outside of Russia for no more than 10 years
Be currently affiliated with one of the partner institutions:

- Free University in Latvia
- Faculty of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Montenegro
- Smolny Beyond Borders, Germany
- Bazaleti Unversity, Georgia

Previously taught in Russian higher education
Why Choose Us

Why Participate?

By joining the U.S.-RAR Program, you will:
Contribute to the development of pioneering university courses that inspire the next generation of Russian students.
Collaborate with esteemed faculty from the U.S., exchanging ideas and expanding your professional network.
Develop new teaching methods and receive feedback through an advanced workshop in the U.S., empowering you to create a greater impact in your field.
Help foster academic freedom and critical thinking for students who are eager to engage with diverse perspectives and global knowledge.

How to Apply

Eligible university professors are invited to complete the online application form by December 27.
Get in touch

Contact Us

For any questions about the U.S.-RAR Program or the application process, please feel free to reach out to us at contact@usrar.com.

contact@usrar.com

Apply Now

Applications are now closed

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