RICHARDSON, Texas (May 5, 2004) — The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) and the Organization of American States (OAS) have reached a collaborative agreement that will provide full scholarships for selected masters- and doctoral-level students from OAS countries who are interested in furthering their studies at UTD.

UTD is the only university within the U. T. System — and one of only eight universities nationwide — to participate in an OAS scholarship program. Others schools include Princeton University and Duke University.

Under the agreement, citizens or permanent residents of one of the OAS’ 35 member states who hold an undergraduate degree and who meet the requirements to pursue advanced studies or research in their chosen field can apply for a UTD/OAS scholarship. The scholarships are available for full-time graduate study for up to two years leading to a master’s degree or the equivalent or full-time Ph.D. or the equivalent for up to four years. Candidates must satisfy all of the OAS’ eligibility requirements and all requirements for admission to UTD. The OAS will pay for the first half of a student’s studies, including tuition and fees, books, room and board, health insurance and an allowance for living expenses, and UTD will pay for the remaining portion. One round trip airfare for travel between the student’s country of origin and the university also is included.

The agreement will be implemented by UTD’s Center for U.S.–Mexico Studies, under the academic supervision of the Office of Graduate Studies.

“We are honored to be selected as a university that offers OAS scholarships,” said Dr. Rodolfo Hernandez, director of the center. “Being involved with such a respected group as the OAS is valuable because it affirms UTD’s recognition of the importance of the Latin American academic agenda in North Texas and in the United States.”

The OAS annually awards hundreds of scholarships for graduate studies and research. Students interested in applying for the scholarships may do so in their countries of origin through the OAS, or they can apply directly to UTD.

About the Organization of American States

The OAS is the oldest regional international organization in the world. Its purpose is to strengthen peace and security in the hemisphere, promote representative democracy, ensure the peaceful settlement of disputes among members, provide for common action in the event of aggression and promote economic, social and cultural development. Currently, all 35 independent countries of the Americas have ratified the OAS charter and belong to the organization. Cuba remains a member, but its government has been excluded from participation in the OAS since 1962.

 About UTD

The University of Texas at Dallas, located at the convergence of Richardson, Plano and Dallas in the heart of the complex of major multinational technology corporations known as the Telecom Corridor®, enrolls more than 13,700 students. The school’s freshman class traditionally stands at the forefront of Texas state universities in terms of average SAT scores. The university offers a broad assortment of bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs. For additional information about UTD, please visit the university’s web site at www.utdallas.edu.