What reference letters should I include?
You should ideally include one academic reference (for example, from a university professor) and one professional reference (for example, from a museum or a previous workplace). Your referees should mention how long they have known you and in what capacity. It is helpful if they can comment on your academic performance, communication skills, initiative, reliability, and your suitability for a professional museum environment.
If one of your referees prefers to submit their letter confidentially, they can send it directly to fellowship@guggenheim-venice.it. Please ensure that any letters sent separately arrive by the application deadline to be considered.
What is a university transcript?
A university transcript is an official document that shows your academic record, including the courses you have taken, the grades you received, and, if applicable, your final grade point average (GPA).
You may upload a transcript as part of your application, although it is not required. If you do include it, please ensure sure it is in English or Italian. Your transcript should show at least one completed semester or term of university-level study (undergraduate or postgraduate).
If you have more than one transcript, please combine them into a single PDF before uploading.
What should my motivation letter include?
Your motivation letter should explain why you are applying to the International Fellowship Program and what you hope to gain from the experience. We encourage you to reflect on the guiding questions provided in the application form, though you do not need to answer each one separately.
Please keep your letter clear, well organized, and no longer than one page (11-point font).
What language skills do I need?
The Fellowship Program takes place in an international environment where English is the common language among participants. However, daily interaction with Italian peers, staff, and visitors, requires conversational competence in Italian. You may include a language certificate in your application to demonstrate your proficiency.
If your Italian skills are limited, we encourage you to show evidence of your efforts to learn the language—such as enrolment in an Italian course—in your application.
Proficiency in additional languages is considered an asset and should also be noted in your application.
Can I receive university course credits?
International students’ participation in the Fellowship Program does not automatically qualify for university course credits. If academic credit is needed, arrangements can be made once you have been accepted into the program. It is advisable to contact your university’s study abroad office in advance to discuss the requirements.
When is the best time to apply?
The program is very competitive, with approximately one in ten applicants accepted. The summer months (May to August) attract the most applications, making these periods especially competitive and resulting in many strong candidates being turned down due to limited spaces. We encourage you to consider applying for other months where possible and to provide your full availability in the online application form.
Will the museum help with my visa?
The museum can support your application for a study visa through your university. This is arranged once you have been accepted into the program. We recommend checking with your university’s study abroad or international office for specific guidance in advance.
How can I apply for one of the Impact Fellowships?
Each year five candidates are selected from all successful applicants to receive an Impact Fellowship. The selection committee considers all applicants accepted to the program, though if you wish to be considered for a specific fellowship you can mention this in your motivation letter.
Will I receive confirmation of submitting my application?
Yes, you will automatically receive a confirmation email from the application system once your submission is complete. If you do not see it in your inbox, be sure to check your spam or junk folder. If you have not received this, you can email fellowship@guggenheim-venice.it to check the status of your application.
What should I do if I have a technical problem uploading my documents?
Ensure that your files meet the required format and size limits. All documents must be uploaded as PDF files and should not exceed the maximum file size indicated in the application portal. If the problem persists, try using a different browser or device.
If you are still unable to upload your documents, you can contact us at fellowship@guggenheim-venice.it for assistance.
Can I save and come back to my application before submitting?
No, the application must be completed and submitted in one sitting. We recommend preparing your materials in advance and drafting your written responses in a separate document before beginning the online form.