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How to Score a Fulbright Scholarship

Fulbright Scholarship recepients are exposed to global learning.

Whether you dream of studying anthropology in Ghana or business in Germany, one scholarship can make it possible. Recent college graduates, graduate students and doctoral candidates with an interest in international travel and a passion for a field of study should take a look at the Fulbright Student Scholarship.

Supported by the U.S. Department of State and administered by the Institute for International Education (IIE), the Fulbright Student Scholarship is the largest international exchange program for U.S. students. Awards are available in 45 disciplines although most countries also have grants that allow applicants to shape their own projects. Projects may include university coursework, field and library research, teaching English, or a combination of these areas.

The Fulbright began in 1946 from a proposal by Sen. J. William Fulbright to promote “mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries around the world.” Since its founding, more than 250,000 participants have received support to study in over 140 countries.

To be eligible for the Fulbright Student Scholarship:

• Students must be U.S. citizens and in good health.
• Applicants must be a graduating college senior, BS/BA degree holder, or a master’s or doctoral degree candidate.
• Some Fulbright positions require proficiency in the language of the country where the project will take place.
• Preference is given to students who have not resided or studied for longer than six months in the country to which they are applying.

Five different types of awards are available:

• Full Grant: Covers round-trip travel, full funding for one academic year, and books and research allowances.
• Travel Grant: Pays for round-trip travel to study in Germany, Hungary and Italy.
• Business Grant: Funds projects in business, law and international relations in Germany, Mexico and Spain.
• English Teaching Assistantships: Sponsors English language teachers in select countries.
• Islamic Civilization Initiative Award: Awarded for study in countries with a significant Muslim population.