• ICGS Research Fellows receive training in action research that can be shared with other faculty in the school.
• Teachers have the time and space to reflect on how they teach and assess how girls learn best, and to share their findings with their colleagues and through presentations at other regional or national programs in their home country and abroad.
• Participation in GARC demonstrates a school’s thought leadership. It provides a platform for showcasing the ongoing work in developing best practices for teaching girls while creating an environment among faculty members where research is incorporated in best and reflective practice.
• All of this results in better retention for educators, who are encouraged to learn and grow, and it creates improved outcomes for students as well.

• An 18-month commitment begins in December after acceptance. See other requirements below. There is a one-time participation fee of $1,325 USD.
• Fellows are required to attend two consecutive ICGS conferences, the first to participate in training and the second to present their findings. Schools are responsible for the registration fees and travel costs associated with conference attendance.
• GARC Researcher of The Year will be given annually to a fellow whose project demonstrates exceptional quality and innovation and provides a significant contribution to girls’ education.

Applicants must be currently teaching at an ICGS member girls’ school, and research will be conducted with the fellow’s own class or group of students.

Participation in the program includes the following commitments:

• Monthly online full-cohort training meetings and monthly online meetings with a small group and research advisor
• Participation in an ICGS conference and training workshop in June of the first year (approximately 5–6 days)
• Participation in an ICGS conference the following year to present research findings

The sponsoring school is responsible for registration, travel, accommodations, and associated expenses for both conferences.

Fellows must follow the guidelines and deadlines of the action research process, including assignments, research milestones, and submission deadlines. Attendance at all trainings and workshops, both online and in person, is required.

Each fellow will produce an original written research report, a video or podcast, and potentially additional materials for conference presentation, culminating in an in-person presentation at the annual ICGS Conference.

Note: Because of the program’s time commitment, participation may be challenging for individuals currently serving in senior leadership roles.

Applicants are encouraged to review the Intellectual Property Statement for GARC fellows.

Applications for the next cohort are due October 16, 2026.

We typically receive far more applications than there are available places in the program. Applicants are encouraged to take time to thoughtfully prepare their materials. The information below outlines the general application process for future cohorts.

General Steps

• Identify an In-School Mentor who can provide advice and support throughout your project. Mentors will be asked to complete a Pledge of Support for you to submit with your application.
• Complete the Permission Form and review the program expectations, including the time commitment and cost to the school. Your Head of School, President, or Principal must sign this form.
• Review the expectations and requirements of an ICGS Global Action Research Fellow. You will need to submit a form agreeing to these terms if you are accepted into the program.
• Record a two-minute video introducing yourself, including your name, school, and position. Share why you are applying, what you hope to gain from the experience, and why the research topic appeals to you.
• Complete and submit the online application. Please note that you will be asked to upload your mentor form and permission form and provide a link to your application video.

For more information or questions, please email garc@girlsschools.org.