Fulbright Program Benefits
The core Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program sends approximately 800 American scholars and professionals per year to approximately 130 countries, where they lecture and/or conduct research in a wide variety of academic and professional fields.
- Awards in the Fulbright Distinguished Chairs Program are viewed as among the most prestigious appointments in the Fulbright Scholar Program. Candidates should be senior scholars and have a significant publication and teaching record.
- The Fulbright Regional Network for Applied Research (NEXUS) Program is a network of junior scholars, professionals and mid-career applied researchers from the United States and other Western Hemisphere nations participating in a year-long program that includes multi-disciplinary, team-based research, a series of three seminar meetings, and a Fulbright exchange experience.
- The Fulbright Specialist Program, a short-term complement to the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program, sends U.S. faculty and professionals to serve as expert consultants on curriculum, faculty development, institutional planning and related subjects at overseas academic institutions for a period of two to six weeks.
The Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers fellowships for U.S. graduating college seniors, graduate students, young professionals and artists to study, conduct research, and/or teach English abroad. In addition, Critical Language Enhancement Awards are available to grantees for study of critical need foreign languages before or during their grant period.
- The Fulbright Canada Science, Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) Award offers U.S. students support for three years of doctoral study at one of six leading Canadian research universities.
- The Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Program places recent college graduates and young professionals as English teaching assistants in primary and secondary schools or universities overseas.
- The Fulbright-Fogarty Fellowships in Public Health grant medical students and graduate students interested in global health the opportunity to conduct research in public health and clinical research in resource-limited settings.
- The Fulbright-mtvU Fellowship is a special opportunity for up to four U.S. students to pursue projects around an aspect of international contemporary or popular music as a cultural force for expression. Preference is given to creative projects that are conveyed in a dynamic fashion and are accompanied by a feasible plan.
- Fulbright Travel-Only Grants for international travel are available to Germany, Hungary and Italy to supplement other fellowships that do not include travel costs or to supplement a student's own funds for study/research.
Fulbright Teacher Exchange programs include:
The Distinguished Fulbright Awards in Teaching Program, which sends select U.S. primary and secondary school teachers abroad for three to six months to pursue projects, conduct research, take courses and lead master classes or seminars for teachers and students.
Fulbright Programs
The Fulbright Program is a prestigious international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government. It was established in 1946 under legislation introduced by Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas. The program aims to foster mutual understanding between the people of the United States and people of other countries. It is designed to provide opportunities for outstanding individuals, including students, scholars, teachers, professionals, scientists, and artists, to study, teach, conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns.
The Fulbright Program operates in more than 160 countries worldwide. It offers a variety of exchange programs, including the Fulbright U.S. Student Program, Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program, Fulbright Foreign Student Program, Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program, and others. These programs facilitate cultural exchange, academic collaboration, and the development of cross-cultural competencies among participants.
Fulbright participants are selected through a rigorous application process that considers academic and professional merit, as well as the potential for leadership and impact in their respective fields. Once selected, participants receive funding for travel, living expenses, and research materials, along with additional support services. The program encourages participants to engage with the host community, fostering mutual understanding and global learning.
Fulbright alumni include numerous Nobel Laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, heads of state, and leaders in various fields. The program's alumni network continues to foster connections and collaborations among individuals with a shared commitment to international understanding and cooperation. Fulbright alumni often contribute significantly to their respective fields, using their experiences to inform their work and promote global engagement and cultural exchange.
Fulbright Program Benefits
The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious international exchange programs in the world, designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and people of other countries. The program provides various benefits to its participants, including:
- Educational Exchange: Fulbright offers opportunities for students, scholars, teachers, professionals, scientists, and artists to study, teach, and conduct research in other countries. This exchange fosters an appreciation for different cultures and promotes cross-cultural learning.
- Funding and Support: Fulbright provides participants with funding for travel, living expenses, and research materials. This financial support helps participants focus on their academic or professional pursuits without financial stress.
- Cultural Immersion: Participants get the opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture of the host country, fostering a deeper understanding of its traditions, language, and societal norms.
- Professional Development: The program offers a chance for scholars and professionals to develop their skills and expertise in their respective fields through research, teaching, or practical work in an international setting.
- Networking Opportunities: Fulbright provides a platform for participants to establish valuable connections with professionals, researchers, and experts in their fields, both within the host country and internationally.
- Global Perspective: Living and studying or working abroad through Fulbright broadens participants' global perspective, enabling them to gain a deeper understanding of global issues and challenges.
- Alumni Network: Participants become part of the Fulbright alumni network, which offers ongoing support, networking opportunities, and resources for professional and personal growth.
- Cross-Cultural Communication Skills: Interacting with people from different cultural backgrounds helps participants develop strong cross-cultural communication and adaptability skills, which are increasingly valuable in our interconnected world.
- Language Proficiency: Participants often have the opportunity to improve their language skills, particularly if they are in a country where a different language is spoken.
- Prestige and Recognition: Being a Fulbright scholar or participant is highly esteemed and can enhance one's reputation and career prospects in academia, research, or various professional fields.
These benefits make the Fulbright Program a highly sought-after opportunity for individuals looking to expand their academic, professional, and personal horizons on an international scale.
The Fulbright Scholar Program
Fulbright Scholars -- college and university faculty, administrators, and researchers, as well as artists and professionals -- build their skills and connections, gain valuable international insights, and return home to share their experiences with their students and colleagues. Scholars come from and go to all institution types and geographic regions across the United States and around the world.
The Fulbright Scholar Program for academics and professionals awards more than 1,700 fellowships each year, enabling 800 U.S. Scholars to go abroad and 900 Visiting Scholars to come to the United States. As a Fulbright Scholar, you’ll make meaningful contributions to communities abroad and at home, as well as in your chosen field. You’ll also advance your career by joining a network of accomplished alumni serving as leaders and educators across the globe.
Fulbright Program - Our Mission and Your Future
The Fulbright Program, the United States government’s flagship program of international educational and cultural exchange, offers passionate and accomplished students and scholars in more than 160 countries the opportunity to study, teach, conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to mutual understanding. These talented Fulbrighters from all backgrounds inspire, innovate, and contribute to finding solutions to challenges facing our communities and our world.
Who is eligible for Fulbright Program Benefits?
Specific eligibility requirements vary by program. For eligibility information on Fulbright Student programs, please visit the Fulbright U.S. Student Program website. For eligibility information on Fulbright Scholar programs, please visit the Fulbright Scholar Program information page. For eligibility information on Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teach (DA) Program, please visit the Fulbright DA Program information page.
How do I apply for Fulbright Program Benefits?
To apply for Fulbright Scholar programs or Fulbright Student programs, please visit the Fulbright Scholar Program Application Process page. To apply for the Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching Program, please visit the Fulbright DA in Teaching Program information page.
How To Apply For Fulbright Program
Applying for the Fulbright Program can be a competitive and multi-step process. The exact application process may vary depending on the specific Fulbright program you are applying to, as there are different programs available for students, scholars, professionals, and others. However, the following general steps can give you an idea of what to expect:
- Research the Program: Visit the official website of the Fulbright Program to understand the available opportunities, eligibility requirements, and application deadlines. Determine which program aligns with your academic or professional goals.
- Check Eligibility Criteria: Review the specific eligibility criteria for the Fulbright program you are interested in. Make sure you meet the educational and professional requirements, as well as any language proficiency requirements, if applicable.
- Prepare Application Materials: Gather all the necessary application materials, which may include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a research proposal, and language proficiency test scores. Follow the guidelines provided by the Fulbright Program for each of these materials.
- Take Language Proficiency Tests (if required): If the Fulbright program you are applying to requires proficiency in a particular language, take the necessary language proficiency tests and ensure that your scores meet the program's requirements.
- Submit the Application: Complete and submit the application form through the Fulbright Program's official application portal. Make sure to double-check all the information provided and submit all the required documents before the deadline.
- Letters of Recommendation: Request letters of recommendation from appropriate referees who can speak to your academic and professional abilities and your potential for success in the Fulbright Program.
- Prepare for Interviews (if applicable): Some Fulbright programs may require an interview as part of the selection process. Prepare for the interview by researching the program, understanding its mission, and being able to articulate how your participation would contribute to the program's goals.
- Follow-Up: After submitting your application, follow up with the Fulbright Program to ensure that all your materials have been received and that your application is complete.
It's crucial to pay close attention to the specific requirements and deadlines for the Fulbright Program you are applying to, as these may differ depending on the country or region you are applying for. Additionally, seeking guidance from academic advisors or Fulbright alumni can provide valuable insights and assistance throughout the application process.
How can I contact someone?
For more information about this program and all other education programs offered by the U.S. Department of State, please visit the State Department's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Exchange Programs website. 1-202-686-4000.