International Scholars
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and The Plastic Surgery Foundation's (The PSF) International Scholar Program enables plastic surgeons from abroad to study at host plastic surgery institutions in the United States for three months.
The plastic surgeon must be in the developmental stage of their studies, have completed their plastic surgery training and have the flexibility to travel and study at more than one institution. The focus of this study may be clinical, research-based or a combination of both.
Please note that past International Scholar award recipients are ineligible for repeat scholarships due to the great need to train doctors internationally and limited resources.
How to Apply
Thank you for your interest in the International Scholar Program. The program is expected to reopen in mid-June 2026, and we will notify our members as soon as applications become available.
Please note that past International Scholar award recipients are ineligible for repeat scholarships due to the great need to train doctors internationally and limited resources.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible, candidates must:
- Submit a one-page written essay to accompany the application, describing the reasons for wishing to become an international scholar and how the experience will help the citizens of their native country
- Provide two letters of sponsorship from their local or regional plastic surgery society and/or from their department chairman
- Submit a CV (resume) and headshot
- Have an active ASPS membership
- Provide documentation confirming completion of an approved training program in plastic surgery outside North America
- Be less than 10 years out of training
- Actively practice plastic surgery in their native country
- Have demonstrated the potential for academic and clinical excellence
- Be in good health
- Live outside North America
- Be able to communicate verbally in English
Eligibility Notes
- Residents will not be considered for scholarships
- Applicants may reapply for the program a maximum of three years
Assessment
After returning home, scholars will be asked to submit an essay describing their experiences in the United States, including the objectives they accomplished during their fellowship and how the scholarship has impacted their career goals. The scholars will be asked to evaluate the program and to offer suggestions for modification and improvement.
Important Note: If an individual is selected as an International Scholar and is unable to obtain a visa, The PSF is not responsible for the continuation of the offer beyond a reasonable date.
Questions about The PSF International Scholars program may be directed to Romina Valadez at rvaladez@plasticsurgery.org.
