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 **
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Link to Country Summaries
Link to Preparing an Application
Link To Enrolled or At-Large
Before You Start
Link To The Fulbright Project
Link To Study/Research Proposal
Link To Applications in Arts & Writing
Link To The Affiliation
Link To ETA Grant Statement
Link To The Personal Statement
Link To Foreign Language Evaluation
Link To References
Link To Apply Now
Link To Resources For Applicants
Link To News and Events
Link To Podcast and Blog
Link To Related Links
Link To Resources For
Link To Current Grantees
Link To FPAs
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Preparing An Application - Before You Start Printer-Friendly Version

Before You Start Your Application


If you are eligible:
  • Review the website with particular attention to all the sections in Program Overview
  • 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.
  • Read the Country Summary section 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.
  • Inform your campus Fulbright Program Adviser (FPA), if applying through your home institution (i.e., Enrolled), that you are considering applying for the Fulbright Program. Learn the campus application deadline and submission process. To find the FPA at your institution, click here.
  • Request official transcripts from all post-secondary schools attended. Official transcripts should be sent to you in sealed and signed envelopes prior to the application deadline. Failure to submit all required transcripts can seriously affect the viability of success of your application.

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.

  • 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 (Project). 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 grant 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 the Fulbright Program. 
  • Determine what documents you need to collect and request them in time for you to receive them well before your application deadline.
  • 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 Grant Purpose. A well-designed project or Grant Statement is important. For advice, see Study/Research Grant Statement or  ETA Grant Statement.

Remember, faxed or emailed documents will not be accepted, even from your contacts overseas.  So plan accordingly and request supporting documents as soon as possible.
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