Nejire

I applied through NYC, which is the only option I get. I am glad to say, however, I have a shiny new residence permit in my possession now! It only took 2.5x longer than the migration board said it would. So things are starting to shape up!

The migration board claims that processing times for student visas are minimal, as in a month tops. I've officially been waiting for two months, and my visa still has not been processed. I sent it in with more than enough time for processing; but even so, if my visa isn't processed by the time I leave in the end of August, I will have to reapply when I get there, and not to mention repay the $350 application fee. And they have my passport hostage. So I am also not exactly enjoying the process. :/

Thank you!

They do check up on you. Also, what you are proposing is called defrauding the federal government, a prosecutable offense. But hey, if you like to live life on the edge, that is your choice to make. I can almost guarantee you that IIE people follow this forum, though.

IIE lost my medical clearance forms. Glorious.

I would check into applying through your alma mater. http://us.fulbrightonline.org/preparing_enrolledatlarge.html

I sincerely doubt that it's from the US, particularly since it's funding for ETAs. The US cut funding this year by a considerable amount, and ETAs seem to benefit the host country more than they do the US. The information you're looking for is so program-specific that, unless there is a Fulbright official lurking around this forum, I doubt that anyone here will be able to answer your questions. There is no formula for how things are divvied out. I know how much it hurts to be so close. I made myself sick over it. My family kept on telling me not to worry about it, but it's hard. But they were right: sometimes the more you want something, the more likely it will squirm and fight to get away from you. So as hard as it is, it's best to be proactive and start working on the next big thing. That was the last thing I wanted to do, but once I did, time went by a lot faster, and I didn't have all that stress to make me sick. I'm sure that your life will be amazing, no matter what happens, because you are determined for it to be so.

Supposedly Rachel is out of office because she is in Turkey - whether she is there for business or pleasure, I don't know. Anyhow, If you can make a dr's appointment for next month and cancel it in the event you don't need it, might be a good idea...the medical clearance forms take a while to fill out.

Wow, that's awesome for you! Congrats! I also got some good news last week, but due to graduation, etc., I didn't have time to share. Last week, I got promoted from alternate status to a full grant to Finland! Sat on the alternate list for 2 months. From how things transpired, I suspect that Finland found additional funding for me, as opposed to me being given a declined spot. I feel quite special considering the sizable budget cuts this year! Good luck and patience to those who are still waiting. This is the month for good news! I'd love to talk with other future Fulbrighters, so people feel free to message me!