Fulbright Foreign Student Program 2028-29

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is the U.S. government’s flagship international educational exchange program, funded by the U.S. Department of State. Each year, approximately 4,000 students from 160 countries receive Fulbright scholarships to pursue Master’s and PhD degrees at U.S. universities. The program builds bridges across cultures and strengthens global connections. It is one of the most prestigious and competitive scholarships in the world. Deadlines vary by country — typically between February and June 2026 for the 2027-28 academic year. Check with the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in your home country.

Must be a citizen of an eligible country (155+ countries worldwide). Must hold or be completing a bachelor's degree. Must demonstrate strong academic achievement. Must be proficient in English (some countries require TOEFL/IELTS scores). Must return to home country for at least two years after completing the Fulbright grant (two-year home-country residency requirement). Must not hold U.S. citizenship or permanent residency. Fields of study include all academic disciplines except medicine and nursing clinical practice.

• Full tuition and fees at a US university
• Monthly living stipend (varies by location, ~$1,500–$2,500/month)
• Round-trip international airfare
• Health insurance coverage (accident and sickness) through ASPE plan
• Settling-in allowance (one-time)
• Professional development and enrichment opportunities
• Mid-term and end-of-year enrichment seminars
• Access to Fulbright alumni network of 400,000+ scholars across 160 countries
• Possible additional supplements (book allowance, computer, dependent support)

Completed Fulbright online application form, Academic transcripts from all institutions attended, Degree certificates, Statement of Grant Purpose (research or study plan essay), Personal Statement essay, Three letters of recommendation (at least one academic), English proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS — requirements vary by country), CV/Resume, Valid passport copy, Writing samples or portfolio (for some fields), Additional country-specific requirements (check your country's Fulbright page)

• Be a non-U.S. citizen resident in your country of nomination
• Apply through the binational Fulbright Commission/Foundation or U.S. Embassy in your home country by that country's deadline
• Eligibility and selection vary by country; placement at U.S. universities is handled by IIE