Fully Funded U.S. Research & Teaching Program
In today’s dynamic academic and professional environment, the Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships have emerged as one of the most respected and comprehensive international opportunities available to Indian scholars. As a fully funded initiative, this fellowship opens doors to collaborative teaching and research experiences at some of the most prestigious universities in the United States during the 2026–2027 academic year.
This program is uniquely designed for faculty members, established researchers, and professionals across disciplines who are eager to expand their expertise on an international platform. Through immersive academic experiences and active knowledge exchange, fellows not only enhance their personal and institutional capabilities but also contribute to strengthening Indo-U.S. academic ties.
This article presents a detailed guide to help prospective applicants understand the scope, eligibility, application procedures, financial advantages, and key insights to make a strong application.
About the Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships
Program Name: Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships
Current Status: Applications for the 2026–2027 cycle are open as of May 13, 2025.
Overview & Objectives
The Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships are administered by the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF). These awards support highly qualified Indian faculty and professionals to conduct research, teach, or combine both activities at select U.S. institutions. The core objective is to foster long-term academic and cultural engagement between India and the United States through mutual scholarship.
Duration
Fellowships last between four to nine months, depending on the nature and scope of the project.
Study/Work Mode
- Full-time, onsite placement in a U.S. university or academic institution
- Activities may include teaching, collaborative research, or a blend of both
Core Focus Areas
The fellowship covers a broad array of disciplines. Supported fields include:
- Agricultural Sciences
- Anthropology
- Bioengineering
- Chemistry
- Computer Science (including Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Machine Learning)
- Earth and Environmental Sciences
- Economics
- Education Policy and Planning
- Energy Studies
- History and Heritage Studies
- Languages, Literature, and Linguistics
- Materials and Nanoscience
- Mathematical Sciences
- Neurosciences
- Performing and Visual Arts
- Physics and Astronomy
- Political Science and International Relations
- Psychology and Cognitive Sciences
- Public Health and Health Policy
- Sociology
- Urban and Regional Planning
- Women’s and Gender Studies
Eligibility Criteria
Academic Qualifications
- Applicants must possess a Ph.D. with at least five years of teaching, research, or professional experience.
- Non-academic professionals must have a Master’s degree with a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience.
Age Limit
- No strict age limit, but applicants must demonstrate relevance of the fellowship to their career stage and academic goals.
Nationality Requirements
- Must be an Indian citizen residing in India
- Must not hold or be in the process of acquiring U.S. permanent residency or dual citizenship
Language Requirements
- Strong command of English is expected
- Standardized test scores like TOEFL/IELTS are not required but applicants should be proficient in written and spoken English for academic work
Additional Requirements
- Submission of a recently published academic article or equivalent scholarly work (not exceeding 30 pages)
- A formal endorsement letter from the current employer, confirming that leave will be granted for the fellowship period
- Employees of Central or State Governments in India are not eligible for this program
Application Process
Step-by-Step Guide
- Access the application portal: https://apply.iie.org/fvsp2026
- Register and create a user profile
- Carefully read through the official FNAPE Applicant Instructions
- Upload required documents, complete the digital application form
- Fill out and attach the mandatory Annexure and Letter of Support from your institution
- Review all fields and submit the application by the published deadline
Required Documents
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – Summarizes professional background, academic achievements, and current role
- Statement of Purpose / Project Proposal – Clear articulation of your research or teaching goals and expected outcomes
- Letters of Recommendation – 2 or 3 letters from mentors, supervisors, or academic collaborators
- Academic Transcripts – Scanned and attested mark sheets and certificates from undergraduate and postgraduate degrees
- Recent Publication – Must be scholarly, peer-reviewed, and published in a relevant field
- Employer Endorsement Letter – Ensures institutional approval and commitment
- Passport Scan – Valid government-issued identification
Fields of Study / Research Areas Supported
The fellowship is inclusive of various disciplines. In particular, it supports:
- Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM)
- Social Sciences and Public Policy
- Arts, Culture, and Humanities
- Gender and Diversity Studies
- Environmental and Health Sciences
- Education Leadership and Development
Proposals that are interdisciplinary or tackle emerging global issues are highly encouraged and valued in the selection process.
Financial Benefits
Selected fellows receive comprehensive funding support including:
- Monthly Living Stipend – Covers food, accommodation, and daily expenses
- Round-trip Economy Class Airfare – Between India and the U.S.
- J-1 Visa Sponsorship – Including processing assistance
- Health Insurance Coverage – Aligned with U.S. Department of State guidelines
- One-time Settling-in Allowance – Helps with relocation costs
- Professional Development Allowance – To attend academic conferences or support publication efforts
- Dependent Support – Travel and maintenance for one accompanying eligible dependent (must stay for at least 80% of grant duration)
Selection Process
Multi-stage Review
- Initial Eligibility Screening
- Discipline-specific Peer Review
- Personal or Panel Interviews
- Final Nomination by USIEF and U.S. Embassy
Key Evaluation Criteria
- Academic and professional record
- Relevance and quality of the proposed project
- Mutual benefit to the U.S. host and Indian applicant
- Potential for long-term collaboration or institutional impact
- Representation across regions, disciplines, and demographics
Estimated Timeline
- Application Deadline: July 1, 2025
- Review and Interviews: August to October 2025
- Final Selection Notification: November–December 2025
- Program Commencement: Mid-2026 (varies by U.S. host institution)
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Tailor Your SOP: Make your statement authentic, clear, and focused on measurable impact
- Prioritize Structure and Formatting: Use clear headings, bullet points, and concise paragraphs
- Choose Your Recommenders Wisely: Prefer referees who know your work closely and can write with specificity
- Demonstrate Mutual Benefit: Highlight how the fellowship benefits both your home institution and the U.S. host
- Proofread Thoroughly: Ensure accuracy, coherence, and adherence to guidelines
Contact Information
Conclusion
The Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships represent a unique blend of global academic exchange, professional growth, and cross-cultural collaboration. Designed to elevate both teaching and research practices, this fellowship serves as a bridge for innovation and diplomacy in the academic world.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to seize this opportunity to engage with global institutions, expand their knowledge horizons, and make meaningful contributions to their fields.
Apply today through the official portal and begin your journey toward global academic impact.
Quick Summary Table
Feature | Details |
Program Name | Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships |
Host Country / Region | United States |
Funded By | United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) |
Duration | 4 to 9 months |
Study Mode | Full-time, Onsite |
Eligibility | Indian faculty, professionals with PhD or Master’s + 5 years experience |
Financial Support | Stipend, air travel, visa, insurance, dependent allowance (if eligible) |
Fields of Study | STEM, Social Sciences, Arts, Policy, Health, Humanities, and more |
Application Deadline | July 1, 2025 |
Official Website |
Citations
- United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF)
- Institute of International Education Fulbright Application Portal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It is a fully funded fellowship that allows Indian professionals to teach or conduct research at U.S. institutions.
Indian citizens with a Ph.D. or master’s degree and at least five years of professional experience can apply.
The program duration ranges from four to nine months, depending on your project and host institution.
The fellowship covers monthly stipend, airfare, visa support, insurance, and professional and dependent allowances.
You must apply online through the official portal and upload all required documents before the deadline.
The application deadline is July 1, and late submissions are not accepted.
Yes, applicants can choose to teach, conduct research, or do both during their fellowship.
No, employees of Indian central or state governments are not eligible to apply.
The fellowship supports STEM, social sciences, arts, education, health, and gender studies.
Yes, applicants must be proficient in English to teach or conduct research in the U.S.
