Project FAQs
How do I apply for a D&F Academy project?
You can apply online for all D&F Academy projects on this website during the application phase, which is set in the description of each project. The application consists of two steps. The first step is to fill your contact details in order to create an account, and the second step is to fill in the application form.
When will you let me know whether I am accepted or not?
We will inform each applicants about the status of their application within four to six weeks after the application deadline of the project applied for.
How do you select Fellows for a project?
The selection process is highly competitive and includes the review of all written applications by a selection committee, as well as phone interviews with candidates who are successful in the first selection round. Some of the core criteria in the selection process are the motivation an applicant shows for joining the project, and the impact an applicant is expected to be able to make with the help of the project.
What does the Fellowship include?
Once selected for one of our programs, you will receive a full Fellowship covering all project-related costs including, for example, tuition, travel, room and board and necessary insurances. Please refer to the Fellowship Facts to find out more.
Do I need to bring pocket money and if so much how much?
Yes, you will need to bring pocket money. Whilst the D&F Academy will cover all project-related costs as outlined above, we advise you to bring pocket money for yourself to spend on personal items during the project. You will receive more detailed information once you are accepted.
What are the Fellows' responsibilities?
As a Fellow it is your responsibility to obtain a passport and visa for the project country and to cover the visa application expenses. In addition all Fellows have to cover the travel costs to and from the airport in the home country. It is also your responsibility to cover expenses and bring medication and treatment for pre-existing medical conditions (e.g. diabetes, high or low blood pressure). Lastly, Fellows need to cover the costs for mandatory vaccinations and a health check if applicable.
How many hours per week does the project work take?
A D&F Academy project is an intense experience. During the Challenge Phase most days of the week will be spent on learning different project-related topics and completing the Challenge. In addition, you work on your media assignments for Jumpsmart.tv and on your DreamPlan. There will often be DreamLab sessions during the weekends. There are a few free weekends during every project, and if you wish, you can use these to explore the country your project is located in.
Fellows of the DreamMaker program take part in the 10-month Implementation Phase in their home countries after completing the Challenge Phase. During the Implementation Phase we expect our Fellows to spend about ten to twelve hours per week on DreamPlan implementation and participation in the online learning program.
Will I receive academic credit for the project?
All colleges and universities have their own rules and policies for crediting programs outside their own curriculum, so you must inquire into your university's policy. However, please keep in mind that we are not offering degree-based programs, and are not an accredited academic university. Nevertheless, we believe our projects are unique and highly beneficial experiential learning experiences and we will be happy to provide you with a program description and a certificate of participation, which you can present to your university or future employers.