In alignment with the broader goals of campus internationalization and global learning, Global Relations facilitates inter-institutional partnerships between the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and organizations and corporations abroad. These collaborations create an environment where innovation and research seamlessly transcend academic, cultural, and geopolitical boundaries.

Global Relations is a unit of Illinois International. To support campus internationalization and global learning, Illinois International’s units offer engaging programs, academic initiatives, and administrative services under the leadership of the Associate Chancellor and Vice Provost for Global Affairs & Strategies.

Core Services

We offer the following core services to support international collaboration:

International Agreements Management

The university maintains institutional agreements between other universities, governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private corporations. Campus units or departments who wish to start an agreement should review the information found on the Agreements page.

Strategic Partnerships Management

Global Relations actively manages the campus-wide strategic partnerships with the University of Birmingham (United Kingdom), Kyushu University (Japan), KTH Royal Institute of Technology (Sweden), Stockholm University (Sweden), Karolinska Institutet (Sweden), National Taiwan University (Taiwan), and Zhejiang University (China). Learn more about the university’s strategic partnerships.

Campus Visit Coordination for International Guests

From faculty to consulates and dignitaries, we offer comprehensive services and guidance to colleges and departments. Please complete the Visit Request Form to get the process started.

Official Invitation Letters

We facilitate international travel for scholars and officials by issuing official invitation letters. Requests can be made by submitting the Global Relations Report Request Form.

International Protocol Resources & Etiquette Services

For those traveling internationally, our team provides guidance on business best practices, cultural etiquette, and provides an overview of the university’s presence in the region. To request a report, submit the Global Relations Report Request Form. Explore our collection of national flags available for rent through the Flag Request Form for campus programming.

BRIDGE Seed Grant

Our commitment to fostering collaboration is reflected in the BRIDGE Seed Grant, which provides an opportunity for faculty to access funding. This initiative is part of the BiRmingham-Illinois Partnership for Discovery, EnGagement, and Education (BRIDGE) between the University of Birmingham (United Kingdom) and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Grant applications are typically available in the spring.

Fulbright Scholar Program Support

We are dedicated to empowering faculty through the Fulbright Scholars Program. We provide support, guide faculty members in navigating the application process, offer insights on program requirements, and ensure a seamless experience. Faculty are encouraged to review the Fulbright Scholars page for more information.