The application for the 2026 Visiting Scholarship will open in January 2025.

To learn more about applying for the Visiting Scholar Program, we recommend that you watch a free recording of the Visiting Scholar Program Application Information Session. Click here to view.

Applicant Eligibility:

Applicants must:
  • Have at least 3 years of working experience in area of specialty (post-training)
  • Have at least 3 years experience caring for patients with cleft and/or craniofacial conditions
  • Have the capacity to implement change in their home institution.
  • Reside in a country that is included on the World Bank’s list of low and middle-income countries. Click here to view the list.
  • Special consideration will be given candidate from countries and/or disciplines that have not recently participated in the Visiting Scholar Program.
  • Only Smile Train partners will be considered for the ACPA-Smile Train Visiting Scholarship.

Application Process:

Before beginning the application, please read the below information:

  • Applicants must have three references, including a letter from their current medical/professional director.
  • Applicants may choose their top three host sites from the list of ACPA Approved Team Host Sites. Applicants should select sites that match their specialty and program goals. There is no guarantee that the selected visiting scholar will visit any/all host sites of their choice – final decisions will be made at the discretion of the Visiting Scholar Selection Panel.