GSG Professional Development and Travel Award – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I missed the deadline for the award but just got accepted to a conference. Is there any way to apply for the award after the deadline?
A: No. Applications are open 3 times in the Academic year Fall, Spring and Summer. Once an application period has closed, it cannot be reopened. There are no EXCEPTIONS to late submissions. Please visit the GSG website for up-to-date Application Deadlines and Award Periods. Subscribe to our Newsletter and Social Media channels for reminders and updates.
Q: I plan to attend a conference next semester, but my abstract has not been accepted yet. Can I still apply for the award?
A: Yes, we encourage applicants to apply during the application period regardless of abstract acceptance.
Q: I am not planning to present at the conference. Will my application still be considered even though I am not presenting?
A: Yes! This is a lottery system award. If eligibility requirements are met, everyone will have an equal chance of receiving the award regardless of purpose.
Q: I was awarded an Award for an in-person conference opportunity; however, I have just been informed that the conference has been moved to a virtual format. Can I still use the award to virtually attend the conference?
A: Yes. Please inform the Award Officer about the change.
Q: Can I use the award to pay for my tuition?
A: No. Per the guidelines, this Award cannot be used for UAB Credit generating activities.
Q: Can I use this award to upgrade my laptop or pay for hardware maintenance or service fees?
A: No. This award cannot be used for personal hardware purchases.
Q: I requested books during my application process but want to use the rest of the money for software as well. Is that possible?
A: No. If the award was granted only for Books, it cannot be used for other purposes. Please be mindful when filling out your application and clearly indicate the purpose of the award.
Q: I am only using the GSG Award for reimbursement. Do I still need to submit through my department first?
A: No. If GSG is the only source of reimbursement. Please use the payment request form on the GSG website to directly submit your request to the graduate school.
https://www.uab.edu/gsg/funding/travel-grants-payment-request
Q: I am attending a conference and will be reimbursed by multiple funding sources for the costs. How should I process my reimbursement?
A: If you are being reimbursed by multiple funding sources in addition to GSG, we strongly recommend submitting all your receipts to your department and asking them to contact the Graduate School directly to get the $400.00 GSG Award reimbursed. This allows all your reimbursement to be processed in one time.
Q: I want to go to professional school after completing my graduate degree and must take an admissions exam. Can I use this award to pay for costs associated with this exam?
A: No. The GSG award must directly benefit your current graduate degree and research studies and cannot be used for other purposes.