About
The Institute of International Education (IIE) is a New York-based nonprofit founded in 1919 on the belief that international education could build a more secure and prosperous world. One of the first institutes to advocate for international exchange, IIE today administers some of the world's most prestigious scholarship and fellowship programs — including the Fulbright Program on behalf of the U.S. Department of State — connecting students, scholars, and professionals across roughly 180 countries.
What they do
IIE designs and administers international education and exchange programs, including:
- The Fulbright Program, administered on behalf of the U.S. Department of State
- The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship
- The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
- The International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP)
- Support for the EducationUSA advising network
- The Language Flagship and Boren Awards, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense
History
IIE was established in 1919 in New York by Stephen Duggan, Sr., together with Nobel laureates Elihu Root and Nicholas Murray Butler, who envisioned it as a central coordinating hub to establish economic and international collaboration. The organization pioneered some of the earliest and most effective scholar and student exchanges between the United States and countries around the world, and celebrated its centennial anniversary in 2019. It has grown from three people in 1919 to more than 600 staff in 2023.
Scale and impact
- More than 29,000 people participate in IIE-administered programs annually
- Programs reach participants in 180 countries
- IIE operates through 16 offices and affiliates worldwide
- The organization employs more than 600 international education experts
Financials
According to its most recent Form 990 on ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer (fiscal year ending September 2025), IIE reported total revenue of $306,381,946, total expenses of $301,758,130, total assets of $499,388,840, and net assets of approximately $371.4 million. Contributions represented 85.3% of total revenue, and the filing notes that the organization operated a donor-advised fund.
Governance
IIE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 13-1624046) governed by a Board of Trustees, supported by multiple advisory boards and an executive staff.