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Fulbright Foreign Student Scholarship Program: Students who want to study in US and pursue masters can apply for the 2026 Fulbright scholarship as the applications are now open. Interested students must apply online at the official website by April 30, 2025.
The United States of America is offering these fully-funded scholarships to students pursuing Master degrees for one year or longer period. The purpose of offering the prestigious Fulbright Foreign Student Scholarship Program is to facilitate the exchange of different cultures and encourage academic excellence. Graduate students, young professionals and talented artists get an opportunity to study and showcase their research skills in the states with the help of this scholarship. In this article, we will explore more about the program, eligibility criteria, how to apply, selection process, and application timeline.
Every year, more than 8,000 foreign students get the Fulbright scholarships, strengthening the bond between the US and other countries. These are fully-funded scholarships that are a boon for international students to manage their expenses in the US.
The Fulbright scholarships cover the tuition fees, health and accident insurance for students. Additionally, they also receive a monthly living stipend and a round-trip airfare from their home country to the US.
To be eligible for Fulbright foreign student scholarships, the applicant must meet the following eligibility criteria:
It is compulsory to be a citizen of an eligible country. Applicants who hold a dual citizenship are not eligible for this scholarship.
It is a must to complete at least one undergraduate degree
Have at least two years of work experience relevant to the proposed master's program.
Have at least two years of work experience relevant to the proposed master's program.
Students pursuing masters in eligible fields can only apply for the Fulbright scholarship. Eligible fields include Arts, Biological Sciences, Health and Medical Sciences, Public Administration, Law, Education, Humanities, Business, Social Sciences, Engineering, Physical Sciences, and others.
Interested candidates should apply online by visiting the official application portal. The application deadline is April 30, 2025.
Before applying to the Fulbright scholarship, ensure to keep important documents handy. Following are the documents that need to be submitted for this scholarship.
Fill and complete the application form
Three letters of recommendation (LOR)
Two personal essays
Scanned copies of all post-secondary academic transcripts and diplomas.
An updated CV detailing academic and professional experiences.
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The selection process includes a comprehensive review of applications, followed by interviews of shortlisted candidates. Applicants are evaluated based on academic excellence, professional experience, and the potential for leadership and contribution to mutual understanding between cultures.
There is a huge grant list available for those international students who get the Fulbright foreign student scholarship.
These include:
Full coverage of tuition and related academic expenses.
A monthly allowance to cover housing, food, and incidental expenses.
Round-trip airfare from the home country to the U.S.
Comprehensive health and accident insurance.
J-1 visa sponsorship for the grantee and J-2 visa sponsorship for dependents.
Opportunities for pre-academic training and enrichment seminars.
Access to post-degree academic training and other post-study opportunities
The application and selection timeline for the Fulbright scholarship is as follows:
Timeline | Activity |
---|---|
April 30, 2025 | Application Deadline |
May – June 2025 | Review of applications |
July 2025 | Interviews of shortlisted candidates |
August 2025 | Notification of principal and alternate nominees; nominees take required tests (e.g., TOEFL, GRE) |
October 2025 | Applications of recommended candidates forwarded for approval and placement |
March/April 2026 | Finalists notified of approval |
May/June 2026 | Pre-Departure Orientation |
July/August 2026 | Pre-academic training in the U.S. (if required) |
August/September 2026 | Degree programs commence |
Ensure to fill the application form by 30th April, 2025. By August/September 2026, the degree programs will commence.
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The Fulbright Foreign Student Program represents a unique opportunity for international students to pursue advanced studies in the United States while engaging in cultural exchange. Prospective applicants are encouraged to prepare their applications meticulously and adhere to the specified deadlines to enhance their chances of selection. The scholarship will help them manage their expenses in the US and study hassle-free in the states.
The 2026 Fulbright foreign student scholarship program is open now, and the deadline for submitting the application form is 30th April, 2025. Be ready with all the documents required, plan meticulously and apply for this scholarship before the deadline to increase the chances of getting it. For more detailed information and country-specific eligibility requirements, please refer to the official Fulbright Foreign Student Program website.
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Yes, Indians can apply for a Fulbright scholarship. It includes a wide range of exchange opportunities to Indian citizens in three main categories: Student Awards to pursue a Master’s degree or attend a U.S. university, Scholar and Teacher Awards for academics, teachers and professionals to teach or conduct research in the U.S., and Professional Development Programs for leadership and skill development.
There is no maximum or specific age limit for Fulbright. However, it is mandatory to meet the eligibility criteria before applying for the scholarship.
Applicants must have a recent score of no less than 550 (Paper Based TOEFL), 79-80 (Internet Based TOEFL - IBT), or 6.5(Overall Score International English Language Testing System - IELTS.
Following is the criteria that the selection panel uses for selecting candidates for this scholarship:
Academic credentials and professional ability.
Merit of the proposed Fulbright project.
Communication skills.
Commitment to community or national service.
Need to conduct research in the U.S.
Outcomes, Potential Impact and Benefits.
In general, the acceptance rate for a Filbright scholarship in the US is 10-20% for US applicants. However, it is more for scholar applicants. Also, the acceptance rate for different countries vary.
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