Frequently Asked Questions
Am I required to take a language test before applying?
In order to be considered for our Chile and Nicaragua sites, you must possess fluency or a high level of proficiency in Spanish in order to be considered. The site will interview you to determine if your Spanish language abilities are sufficient.
While all of our other sites use English as the primary professional language, listing all language abilities on your application is also helpful for reviewers to consider in making our placements.
I have never traveled or studied abroad before, should I apply?
Yes. One of the primary objectives of the program is to provide students with the opportunity to further their career goals by participating in international opportunities, often for the first time in an extended and/or professional capacity.
I don't have significant research experience, am I eligible to apply?
Yes. Part of our program objective is to encourage undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, graduate and health professions students to pursue careers in biomedical and/or behavioral health research fields. We provide research training at all levels.
In your application, please describe all relevant experience that could demonstrate your ability to succeed in the program if you have limited direct research experience.
I am not a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National or permanent resident, can I still apply?
No, MHRT is a federally funded program that requires U.S. citizenship or permanent residency for participation in its programs. Permanent residents must be able to show proof of residency. U.S. citizens must have a valid U.S. passport.
Do I need a passport for the program?
Most of our partner countries require a valid passport with validity of at least 6 months beyond the end of the travel date. If your passport expires prior to that time, we strongly encourage you to renew your passport as soon as possible.
NOTE: MHRT cannot reimburse the costs related to obtaining or renewing a passport
Can I apply for the MHRT program if I will be graduating before the training begins?
You must be affiliated with an accredited U.S. institution to be eligible for the UM-MHRT program. In certain situations, recent graduates may be eligible, such as postbaccalaureate candidates who will be matriculating into a program the following fall term. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding eligibility.
Who should complete my Letters of Recommendation?
Two letters of recommendation are required, with at least one from a university faculty member. Ideal faculty letters of recommendation are from a professor who knows you and can discuss your research potential, abilities, and/or experiences.
One letter can come from an employer or work-related position, or another professional mentor who can discuss your skills and abilities.
Are there interviews?
Each site will review the application materials of candidates who selected their site as a top choice, and are a strong fit for their requirements as listed on their page. They may request an interview of select candidates to determine the best fit with the research team. They will look for professionalism and work style, commitment to building research skills, goals, and overall potential for success at their site. They may also assess language skills. Not all candidates who are interviewed are offered a placement.
How large is each MHRT cohort?
We have funding to select approximately 10 trainees per year. We place students based on interests, skillset and fit with the focus of sites each year. We do not necessarily place students at each site each year, depending on the needs and availability of our international partners. We also try to place students in pairs, as feasible, to enhance their experience with social support from a peer.
What are the typical backgrounds of MHRT trainees?
Our cohorts are vary in background, experience and academic level each year. You may view profiles of recent MHRT trainees here.
What are the exact dates of the program, and are they flexible?
The program's in-person start date begins with the orientation in Ann Arbor May 27-30, 2025. Travel and project start dates immediately follow, with research placements set to begin on Monday, June 2, 2025. It is expected that you will be at your site location for a minimum of 10 weeks, and a maximum of 12 weeks following this date. Trainees may therefore depart from their sites as early as August 9th or as late as August 23, 2025.
For doctoral and postdoctoral candidates, research training may extend for up to 6 months, with a return date in December, 2025.
These program participation dates are not flexible. However, trainees often take some personal time to travel and explore the area of their research training sites and may enjoy visits from family and friends during their traineeships.
What costs related to this opportunity are covered?
- Roundtrip airfare and ground transportation to the research site
- Lodging at the research site location or nearby
- Immunization fees and medical prophylaxis, as recommended by the CDC
- Health Insurance
- Visa fees, if applicable
- Travel and lodging for the on-site orientation and poster session, as applicable
- A monthly stipend
How much is the stipend, and when do I receive it?
The monthly stipend is disbursed around the middle of each month, June through September for most trainees (doctoral and postdoctoral will continue to receive a monthly stipend through the end of their placement). A partial stipend is also awarded in May to cover orientation and travel expenses.
The stipend amount varies depending on your academic level, and is set by the HHS National Research Service Award stipend levels listed here.
What happens next if my application is accepted?
You will receive an offer letter to one of our research training sites, with instructions that include how to accept our offer. Following acceptance, you will receive a welcome packet that will include all requirements, program schedule, and instructions about how to make travel arrangements. Our team will work with you every step of the way to ensure all logistics and requirements are completed and arrangements are made that accommodate your needs.
Are there other MHRT programs?
Yes. The National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities funds other U.S. institutions to offer research training programs. Each program has a unique focus, setting, and eligibility. More information can be found here.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us: