Fulbright Institute of International Education
Fulbright Program For U.S. Students Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State
Link To Home Section
Link To About Section
Link To Thinking of Applying Section
Link To How to Apply Section
Link To Before You Start an Application Page
Link To Preparing An Application Page
Link To Applications In Arts & Writing Page
Link To Selection Process Page
Link To Find Your FPA Page
Link To Tips Page
Link To Guidance Sessions Page
Link To IIE Guidance Sessions Page
Link To IIE Campus Visits Page
Link To Information Sessions Page
Link To Apply Now Section
Link to Program Resources Section
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Link To Thinking of Podcast Page
Related Links
Link to Current Fulbrighters Page
Link to FPA Login Page
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How To Apply - Before You Start An Application Printer-Friendly Version

Read the website sections of Program Design and Thinking of Applying and determine that you are eligible to apply.

IF YOU ARE ELIGIBLE:

  • AND ARE ENROLLED, INFORM YOUR CAMPUS FULBRIGHT PROGRAM ADVISER (FPA) that you are considering applying for the Fulbright Program. Learn the campus application and submission processes. To find the FPA at your institution, click here.
  • DETERMINE THE COUNTRY TO WHICH YOU WISH TO APPLY. Make sure the Fulbright award is available for this country; if the country in which you are interested is not listed, contact the world-area managers.
  • REVIEW the Regional and Participating Country Summary for the country to which you are applying and make sure you understand the requirements and preferences for that country. Important information regarding language requirements, affiliation requirements and special considerations is available for each country.


GENERAL TIPS FOR APPLYING

Below are some tips for completing your application. Although not all-inclusive, they are intended to help you as you begin the application process. The earlier you begin, the more time you will have to refine your essays and present yourself well.

Thoroughly review this website. Pay particular attention to the sections on eligibility, factors affecting selection, stages in selection, and the application procedure.
  • Discuss your research or study interests with your academic adviser, professor, mentor, or other person with experience in your field, the host country, and/or the Fulbright Program.
  • Identify a current or former professor or adviser who can provide you with feedback regarding your Statement of Grant Purpose. This person should be familiar with the U.S. Student Fulbright Program and/or be knowledgeable about the host country.
  • Discuss your interest in applying for a Fulbright with those who will be writing your reference letters. Select individuals who can comment not only on you, but also on your project, on your preparation and your ability to carry it out, and your personal qualities that are relevant to Fulbright Program.
  • If the country in which you wish to study requires that you establish your own affiliation, begin contacting scholars and institutions in the host country as soon as possible to request their academic or professional support for your project. An acceptance letter, letter of invitation, or letter of support will lend additional credence to your application.
  • Don't be intimidated or discouraged by the application process or the Statement of Proposed Study or Research. A well-written proposal is important. For advice, see Tips for Study/Research or Tips for English Teaching Assistantships.
  • Determine what documents you need to collect and request them in time for you to receive them well before your application deadline.
  • Remember, faxed or emailed documents will not be accepted, even from your contacts overseas.
  • Contact world-area managers with specific questions.
  Kim Caleb, Korea, 2004
Kim Caleb, Korea, 2004
  Soroush Parsa, Bolivia, 2005
Soroush Parsa, Bolivia, 2005
Christopher Michel, Republic of Georgia, 2006.
Christopher Michel, Republic of Georgia, 2006.