Visiting Scholars Program

Asbury Seminary provides study opportunities for international scholars desiring a brief sabbatical for research and writing projects. The goal of the program is to assist international scholars to serve the global church while allowing the entire Asbury Seminary community to benefit from their tremendous gifts and graces. Scholars are welcome to join the Seminary community for up to four months, preferably in the fall or spring term. While on campus, Asbury will afford a private room in a shared townhouse. The townhouses have a kitchen, living area, and a clothes washer and dryer. Weekday lunches are provided when the Seminary cafeteria is open. All other meals, living expenses, health insurance coverage, and incidentals are the responsibility of the scholar.

The Seminary will grant $1000 travel reimbursement, used to pay SEVIS visa fees (about $220 USD) and to help subsidize airline costs.

ATS will not normally be able to provide housing or visas for spouses, children, or other dependents. There may be exceptions for spouses and children to accompany the scholar, based on housing availability.

Full access will be provided to the resources of Asbury’s B.L. Fisher Library with its nearly 500,000 books, databases, and interlibrary loan capabilities. Scholars may also audit one course or seminar, upon approval of the professor.

Asbury provides multiple formation opportunities including chapel for the community three times a week and daily Eucharist at noon. Scholars are housed near each other to foster ease of relationship and conversation. Prayer spaces are provided in almost every building on campus and multiple prayer groups are readily available. The Seminary’s surroundings invite moments of reflection and spiritual renewal.

A visiting scholar will need a J-1 visa arranged in consultation with the Seminary’s international affairs staff. Basic health insurance coverage, which is required by the U.S. government for all international visitors, can be arranged through the same international affairs office. The ATS Visiting Scholar sessions are Spring (Jan 15-May 15), Summer (June 1-Aug 15), and Fall (Aug 20-Dec 15).

ATS requires notification at least nine (9) months prior to each Visiting Scholar’s desired arrival date in order to allow time for visa processing. 

Criteria Used in the Selection Process

Asbury Theological Seminary’s Visiting Scholars Program gives priority consideration to applicants from one of our official global partner institutions or organizations.

Asbury Theological Seminary does not provide post-doctoral fellowship opportunities as understood as an additional, post-PhD research period under a supervising faculty. We do accept applications for faculty to do additional research for publication.

Application Process

To apply for Asbury Theological Seminary’s Visiting Scholars Program:

• Fill out the online inquiry form at least 9 months before your sabbatical. (NOTE: Overseas Council and Langham Scholars should apply directly through OC and Langham.)
• Carefully articulate your anticipated research project with detailed rationale for what you plan to accomplish during your stay.
• Submit your CV.
• Provide a written recommendation from your sending institution, signed on letterhead by the head of the institution. (If another organization such as Langham Scholars or Overseas Council is involved in sponsoring you, it is essential that we receive an official letter from them as well.)

Inquiries will be evaluated by a committee as we receive them, with applicants notified as soon as we are able. If accepted, a full program application with J-1 visa application forms will be sent to the applicant. Kelly Bixler (global.partnerships@asburyseminary.edu) is the primary contact for all Visiting Scholars applications.

Recent Visiting Scholars

2022-2023 Academic Year