Fulbright U.S. Student applications for 2025-2026 continue to be reviewed as stated on Competition & Selection webpage. Any updates about application status will be communicated to the applicant over email.

2026-2027 Competition Deadline: Tuesday October 7, 2025 at 5 pm Eastern Time

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Current U.S. Student

United States citizens who are currently enrolled in undergraduate or graduate degree programs are eligible to apply.If you are currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program at a U.S. college or university, you will apply through that institution, even if you are not currently a resident there. Find the Fulbright Program Adviser on your campus.

U.S. Citizen but not a Student

If you are a U.S. citizen, will hold a bachelor’s degree by the award start date, and do not have a Ph.D. degree, then you are eligible to apply. Non-enrolled applicants should have relatively limited professional experience in the fields (typically 7 years or less) in which they are applying. Candidates with more experience should consider applying for the Fulbright Scholar Program.

The Getting Started page will provide information on eligibility and next steps.

Artist

The Fulbright U.S. Student Program welcomes applications in the creative and performing arts. Arts candidates for the U.S. Student Program should have relatively limited professional experience in the fields (typically 7 years or less) in which they are applying. Artists with more experience should consider applying for the Fulbright Scholar Program.

Creative & Performing Arts projects fall under the Study/Research grant category and are available in all countries where Study/Research grants are offered.

FPA

U.S. Professor/Administrator

If you are a U.S. citizen and a professor or administrator at a U.S. institution and are interested in applying for a Fulbright Scholar Award, you will need to apply through fulbrightscholars.org.

To support your students in applying for a U.S. Student Program award, please connect with the Fulbright Program Adviser at your institution.

Non U.S. Citizens

If you are a non-U.S. citizen interested in applying for a Fulbright Award to the United States, you will need to apply through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in your home country. Find out more information on the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program or Fulbright Foreign Student Program.

Chile

8 Open Study/Research Award

Accepted Degree Levels
  • Bachelor's
  • Master's
  • Doctoral
Grant Period
March Start
Grant Length
9 Months
Award Type
Open Study/Research Award
Award Profile

Graduate students conducting thesis or dissertation research are preferred. However, graduating seniors and recent graduates will be considered with projects proposing audited coursework and a research project. The proposal for which courses to audit must be negotiated with your potential host in Chile, and should generally address methodologies that will be used in your work.  Please note that grantees cannot enroll in, nor do they recieve credits for, any classes audited.

Grant Length
9 Months
Grant Period
March Start

Grant Length: 9 months.

All grantees must arrive prior to or at the beginning of March 2027 to conduct research during the full academic year. Grant dates must correspond to the academic year in Chile (March to November). The grant period starts with an obligatory enhancement organized by the Fulbright Commission in early March 2027. While you may note a preference for other start dates in your application, exceptions are exceedingly rare, given only for extraordinary research conditions (e.g., winter season glacier study); as such, after your application has been approved, any dates not starting in March must be approved in writing by the Commission in Chile. 

Orientation
In-Country Orientation

The in-country orientation usually takes place during the first half of March.

Candidate Profile

This award prioritizes master's or doctoral candidates for conducting academic research in Chile related to their thesis or dissertation, with At-Large candidates who recently completed a terminal master's degree also considered. Applicants should demonstrate a need for research in Chile and a binational impact. In Chile, strong project proposals, affiliation with a proposed host, community engagement plans, and relevance of activities are crucial, with proficiency in Spanish considered somewhat important but not detrimental. Candidates with only a bachelor's degree are welcome to apply, though must show some relevant professional experience if not otherwise currently enrolled. Recent graduates, master's, and doctoral candidates from all fields are encouraged.

What is life like for Fulbrighters in the host country?

Applicants are expected to research their host country. Application materials should indicate a clear commitment to the host country community and a description of how you will engage with it.

Embark on a Transformative Journey in Chile: A Land of Opportunities

Immerse yourself in Chile, a captivating South American nation of 19 million people, boasting rich landscapes and a broad cultural tapestry. From the geographical marvels stretching over 4,300 kilometers with a fusion of different communities, Chile offers an extraordinary experience waiting to be explored.

A Holistic Scholarly Expedition in Chile: Navigating the Tapestry of Knowledge and Discovery

Embark on a multifaceted scholarly adventure in Chile, contributing to the preservation of its rich cultural heritage while unraveling the mysteries of the universe. Participate in hands-on projects in history, archaeology, and cultural preservation, engaging in archaeological digs, collaborating with museums, and actively promoting and safeguarding Chile's unique cultural legacy.

Simultaneously, explore Chile's extensive coastline for groundbreaking research in marine biology and oceanography. Take advantage of the Humboldt Current and marine life to delve into the study of marine systems, gaining invaluable insights while actively contributing to our understanding of the oceans. 

Unlock the mysteries of the universe by leveraging Chile's world-class observatories in astronomy and astrophysics. Collaborate with local experts, participate in observatory programs, and conduct groundbreaking research in celestial phenomena, space exploration, and cosmology, all under the pristine Chilean skies. Additionally, contribute to research initiatives aligning with Chile's commitment to exploring locales of the type found nowhere else on the planet, from the Atacama Desert to ancient forests. Simultaneously, explore the country's digital landscape, particularly in Santiago's vibrant startup scene, where scholars in computer science and digital marketing can seize collaborative opportunities with local tech companies and research institutions. This multifaceted expedition promises a transformative scholarly journey, where unique biomes, cultural understanding, and cosmic exploration converge for a holistic and impactful exploration of Chile's dynamic landscape.

Cultural Immersion and Connection: Arts, Adventure, Language, and Vineyards

Immerse yourself in Chile's vibrant arts scene, explore adventure tourism opportunities, and partake in lively festivals like Valparaíso's street art and the vibrant celebrations of La Tirana and Fiestas Patrias. While Spanish is the official language, the varying proficiency of English across regions offers an opportunity for language learning and cultural exchange. Engaging with locals and participating in language programs not only deepens the connection with Chilean culture but also adds a dynamic layer to your unforgettable adventure.

Health Initiatives and Entrepreneurship: Making a Positive Impact

Contribute to meaningful research in health initiatives and entrepreneurship. Chile's focus on healthcare and development provides grantees with opportunities to make a positive impact on the well-being of local communities.

Smooth Navigation for Grantees: Balancing Logistics and Well-being in Chile

As grantees embark on their academic journey in Chile, they may encounter variations in transportation reliability and living costs while navigating daily life. However, these considerations pale in comparison to the incredible experiences and opportunities that await those who choose to explore this captivating country.

While internet connectivity may vary, the unwavering warmth of Chilean hospitality remains constant. Grantees are encouraged to prepare for potential limitations in connectivity and prioritize health preparedness. Despite these considerations, Chile's steadfast commitment to health initiatives ensures a safe and enriching experience throughout the scholarly expedition. This holistic approach to logistics and well-being sets the stage for grantees to fully immerse themselves in the academic, cultural, and personal enrichment that Chile has to offer.

Eligibility
Residency in host country NOT permitted in year prior to grant
Dual citizens of this country are NOT eligible
Indicate how many months is considered residency:
12 Months
Degree Level of Applicant
  • Bachelor's
  • Master's
  • Doctoral
Foreign Language Evaluation (FLE) Form

If required, submission of the Foreign Language Evaluation (FLE) form is mandatory, even if you have advanced skills or are a native speaker of the language. Failure to submit the required FLE form may impact your eligibility.

Required

Additional Information: Spanish language proficiency is necessary, not only for the development of the proposed project, but also in order to settle in easily and communicate on a daily basis. Higher level proficiency may be necessary depending on the requirements of the proposed project. Applicants should discuss plans for language study between time of application and the commencement of the grant with the Language Self-Evaluation. A Foreign Language Evaluation by a college level Spanish language instructor is also required.

Foreign Language Proficiency Level by Grant Start

If a Foreign Language Evaluation (FLE) form is Required, applicants must have the following proficiency level by the start of the grant period. If a Foreign Language Evaluation (FLE) form is Recommended, applicants are encouraged but not required to have the following level by the start of the grant period.

Intermediate
Fulbright Proposal Types
Independent Study/Research:
Yes
Letter required for independent study or research at deadline
Graduate Degree Enrollment:
No
Affiliation

The role of the affiliation in the U.S. Student Program is to provide ongoing and substantive oversight and support for the grantee's project. Grantees will be required to have affiliations with accredited academic or research institutions in Chile. Therefore, applicants must initiate contact with the host institution of preference and obtain a formal letter of invitation or affiliation prior to submitting the application. In addition to indicating the nature of the affiliation between the applicant and the host institution (including but not limited to auditing classes, access to facilities or resources, collaboration with an ongoing project, etc.), the letter should state that a host contact will be available during the grant year to mentor the applicant and/or supervise the applicant's work on the proposed project.

Please visit the website of the Fulbright Commission in Chile for further information on University Regional Research Centers in Chile that have expressed specific interest in hosting potential Fulbright Grantees, or visit the Chilean researcher or research network indices.  While many of these Centers have a science and technology focus, the institutions themselves may also have potential as a possible host institution/affiliation.  This is not intended as a comprehensive list.

Affiliation Fees/Tuition
Affiliation Fees/Tuition not covered in grant benefits
Award Benefits
  • A stipend broadly based on the cost of living in the host country. These funds may be used by the grantee to support housing, meals, and incidental costs during the grant period.
  • International travel benefits
  • Accident & sickness health benefits
  • 24/7 mental health support line for urgent and non-urgent situations
  • 12 months of non-competitive eligibility (NCE) hiring status within the federal government
Stipend Amount

This is an estimated amount and is subject to change. The financial terms of the grant will be confirmed in the grant document issued after selection.

1,370 monthly stipend amount in
$ [US Dollar]
One-Time Allowances

This is an estimated amount and is subject to change. The financial terms of the grant will be confirmed in the grant document issued after selection.

$ [US Dollar]

$USD 2,000 will be provided for the purposes of the round-trip, economy-class airfare between the U.S. and Chile.

Estimated Cost of Living

Consider using cost of living comparison websites to gain a better understanding of the potential costs in your host country.

Please use the cost of living comparison calculator based on where your host university is located.

Dependents
Dependent financial support is NOT available
Housing Arrangements

Grantees are responsible for arranging their own housing.  

Fulbright Program Management Contact
FBstudent.WHA@iie.org
Fulbright Commission/U.S. Embassy Website
http://www.fulbrightchile.cl
Fulbright Commission/U.S. Embassy Contact
Fulbright Commission in Chile: becas@fulbright.cl