Fulbright Foreign Student Program

U.S. Department of State, with Fulbright Commissions and U.S. Embassies

♡ Save

Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Citizens of participating countries only (check your country on the Foreign Fulbright site). You apply in your home country through the binational Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy, either with IIE placement or by self-placement. For Bangladesh, recent calls asked for a four-year bachelor's degree, about 2 years of full-time work experience, a strong CGPA and TOEFL/IELTS scores; confirm with the U.S. Embassy Dhaka.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program brings foreign students, scholars, and young professionals to the United States to conduct research or pursue a Master's or PhD degree. Operating in over 160 countries, it fosters mutual understanding between the US and partner nations through academic exchange, fully funding tuition, living stipends, health insurance, and travel.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Citizens of participating countries only (check your country on the Foreign Fulbright site). You apply in your home country through the binational Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy, either with IIE placement or by self-placement. For Bangladesh, recent calls asked for a four-year bachelor's degree, about 2 years of full-time work experience, a strong CGPA and TOEFL/IELTS scores; confirm with the U.S. Embassy Dhaka.
2. Note the deadline. Varies by country - mostly May – Oct (apply through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in your country; the Bangladesh call for study from Aug 2027 closed in mid-2026) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Online Application Form: Completed via the local Fulbright Commission or US Embassy portal.; Academic Transcripts & Diplomas: Certified university records showing high academic ranking.; Standardized Test Scores: TOEFL/IELTS and GRE/GMAT scores (where required by placement universities).; Letters of Recommendation: 3 detailed academic or professional reference letters.; Study/Research Objective & Personal Statement: Compelling essays articulating career goals and bilateral impact..
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Academic excellence (35%), Leadership capability & community impact (35%), Feasibility of study plan & cross-cultural adaptability (30%).

Profile of past winners

Passionate professionals and scholars who articulate a clear vision for how their US degree will solve developmental or academic challenges back home.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

Browse all free materials →

Tips from our advisors

1. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
2. Contact potential supervisors before you apply. Send a one-page research summary and a short, specific email.
3. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
4. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
5. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
6. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.

Quick answers

Who can apply for Fulbright Foreign Student Program?

Citizens of participating countries only (check your country on the Foreign Fulbright site). You apply in your home country through the binational Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy, either with IIE placement or by self-placement. For Bangladesh, recent calls asked for a four-year bachelor's degree, about 2 years of full-time work experience, a strong CGPA and TOEFL/IELTS scores; confirm with the U.S. Embassy Dhaka.

What does Fulbright Foreign Student Program cover?

Full Ride (J-1 Visa sponsorship, tuition coverage, monthly living stipend, books, health insurance)

When is the deadline for Fulbright Foreign Student Program?

Varies by country - mostly May – Oct (apply through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in your country; the Bangladesh call for study from Aug 2027 closed in mid-2026) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Fulbright Foreign Student Program?

Host countries: United States.

What documents do I need for Fulbright Foreign Student Program?

Online Application Form: Completed via the local Fulbright Commission or US Embassy portal.; Academic Transcripts & Diplomas: Certified university records showing high academic ranking.; Standardized Test Scores: TOEFL/IELTS and GRE/GMAT scores (where required by placement universities).; Letters of Recommendation: 3 detailed academic or professional reference letters.; Study/Research Objective & Personal Statement: Compelling essays articulating career goals and bilateral impact..

How are applicants selected for Fulbright Foreign Student Program?

Academic excellence (35%), Leadership capability & community impact (35%), Feasibility of study plan & cross-cultural adaptability (30%).

How much work is the Fulbright Foreign Student Program application?

High: Local U.S. Embassy / Fulbright Commission Application + 3 References + Standardized Tests