Frequently Asked Questions

Overview

See the Site Specific Questions for information related to the GBHI at UCSF program changes.

Application Questions

The application doesn’t appear to be working, how can I get help?

Please email:

GBHI at Trinity: GBHIApply@tcd.ie
GBHI at UCSF: GBHIApply@ucsf.edu

Are there any academic requirements for acceptance?

We do not require any specific level of education; however, we typically require that applicants have completed a “terminal degree/training,” meaning they have pursued the highest degree or training they wish to obtain in their particular field.

Do I need an international certificate in English?

The program does not require documentation of English language capacity. Strong proficiency in written and spoken English is important for success in the program.

Who should write my letters of support?

GBHI requires applicants to supply two letters of support demonstrating support for the applicant’s career goals and long-term commitment to work in their communities and globally. At least one of your letters of support should be from a current or former employer, institution, organization, or group.

How will receipt of my application be confirmed?

Once your online application is submitted, you will receive an automated acknowledgment email.

Are late applications accepted?

No, we do not accept late applications. Please ensure that your application and all letters of support are received prior to the application deadline. Please note that you must submit your application in order for your letter writers to receive the links for them to upload their letters of support, so we encourage applicants to submit their applications as early as possible.

If I am accepted, can I defer until next year?

Deferrals are not accepted for the Atlantic Fellows for Equity in Brain Health program. Please apply for the year you plan to participate. There is no limit to the number of times you can apply. If your circumstances change and you cannot commit to the training year, including travel, you must withdraw. However, withdrawing does not prevent you from reapplying in the future; we encourage you to apply again when you can fully commit to the program, including travel and academic components.

If I am denied from one site, can I apply to the other?

No. Applicants can apply to only one site per application cycle.

Fellowship Questions

Do fellows receive compensation?

Trinity: Fellows participating in the full-time, in-person program based in Dublin receive a salary to support their engagement.

UCSF: Fellows in the part-time, global hybrid program do not receive a cost-of-living stipend for program participation in their home communities. All program-related travel, accommodations, and required materials are covered. Fellows visiting San Francisco will receive a stipend to cover living expenses (lodging, food, transportation) during their stay.

Is housing provided?

Trinity: Fellows are responsible for securing their own housing in Dublin.

UCSF: Fellows in the global hybrid program who do not relocate to San Francisco do not require housing. Those who spend time at UCSF will receive a stipend to cover living expenses and be responsible for securing accommodations for the duration of their stay.

Can I bring my family?

Trinity: Fellows may relocate with their families at their own expense and must arrange visas as needed.

UCSF: Fellows who spend time at UCSF may choose to relocate with their families at their own expense and must arrange visas as needed.

When does the program commence?

The program begins in late August annually.

How much of a time commitment is the program?

Trinity: The program is full-time (approximately 39 hours per week) for one year.

UCSF: The program is part-time through a global hybrid format, designed for working professionals. The commitment may vary from week to week, but will include:

Live sessions: Tuesdays, 8–10 a.m. Pacific Time (check your time zone)
1–2 hours of preparation per session
Mentor meetings every two weeks
Preparation for in-person gatherings & development of a funding proposal

Fellows must also commit to three in-person, week-long intensives. Specific dates will be made available by the time that program offers are made.

What happens after the year-long program?

Beyond graduation, fellows join a growing community of transformative leaders, from the seven interconnected Atlantic Fellows programs, who are inspiring positive change around the world. GBHI is committed to strengthening this lifelong fellowship community by providing avenues for growth and leadership.

Site Specific Questions

Will the fellowship at GBHI at UCSF be residential in 2026–27?

Beginning with the 2026–27 fellowship year, GBHI at UCSF will offer a global hybrid program, combining online learning, mentorship, and international convenings. Fellows also have the opportunity to spend up to 12 months in San Francisco to participate in research and observe clinical activities at the UCSF Fein Memory and Aging Center.

Why is GBHI at UCSF moving to a global hybrid format?

As a global program, GBHI at UCSF is committed to access and inclusion. The new format allows fellows from all regions to participate fully—especially those who could not relocate due to visa restrictions, personal commitments, or professional responsibilities.

When does this change take effect?

The global hybrid program begins with the 2026–27 fellowship year.

Will fellows at GBHI at UCSF have the opportunity to meet in person?

Yes. Fellows will come together during three separate, international, in-person program weeks.

If I could not apply before because I couldn’t relocate, can I apply now?

Yes. The new global hybrid format makes participation possible for many applicants who were previously unable to relocate for a full year.

What does this mean for the fellowship certificate at UCSF?

Certification is currently pending university approval. Details will be confirmed before the fellowship begins.

How will the duration of visits to UCSF be determined?

Fellows selected to the program will be able to choose the amount of time they spend at UCSF. These may range from short visits to extended stays, depending on training goals, individual circumstances, and professional commitments.

Time at UCSF will include robust community and clinical experiences, the opportunity to be embedded in the Fein Memory and Aging Center’s rich teaching environment, and close engagement with UCSF’s research programs.