Fulbright-Nehru Excellence Fellowships: USA271 Views

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

1. 1. Access the application portal: https://apply.iie.org/fvsp2026
   2. Register and create a user profile
   3. Carefully read through the official FNAPE Applicant Instructions
   4. Upload required documents, complete the digital application form
   5. Fill out and attach the mandatory Annexure and Letter of Support from your institution
   6. 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