A program of the U.S. Department of State, the Fulbright Specialist Program is a unique opportunity for institutions across the globe to host U.S. academics and established professionals to engage in two- to six-week, project-based exchanges.
The Fulbright Specialist Program, part of the larger Fulbright Program, was established in 2001 by the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).
The program pairs host institutions abroad with highly qualified U.S. academics and professionals to share their expertise, strengthen institutional linkages, hone their skills, gain international experience, and learn about other cultures while building capacity at their overseas host institutions.
Specialists, who represent a wide range of professional and academic disciplines, are competitively selected to join the Fulbright Specialist Roster based on their knowledge, skill sets, and ability to make a significant contribution to projects overseas. Once abroad, Specialists partner with their host institution to conduct project activities in support of the host institution’s priorities and goals.
Program Framework
The Fulbright Specialist Program offers year-round project opportunities of two to six weeks in length. The shorter duration of Specialist projects is beneficial for both the U.S. academic or professional who may not be available to leave their position for an extended period of time and the host institution which needs an experienced partner on a short-term basis.
Through the Fulbright Specialist Program, U.S. academics and professionals can apply their knowledge and expertise to a diverse array of activities including, but not limited to:
- Delivering seminars, trainings, or workshops
- Consulting on faculty or workforce development
- Developing academic or training curricula and materials
- Lecturing at the graduate or undergraduate level
- Engaging in strategic or institutional planning
- Conducting needs assessments or evaluations for a program or institution
Both university faculty members and highly experienced non-academics, including legal experts, business professionals, artists, scientists, and journalists, are encouraged to apply and use their unique expertise in support of host institutions abroad.
Benefits for Host Institutions
The Fulbright Specialist Program welcomes participation from a wide array of institutions, including:
- Institutions of Higher Education
- Government Institutions (ministries or agencies, courts, parliamentary or congressional bodies)
- Cultural Institutions (conservatories, museums, etc.)
- Non-Governmental Organizations including non-partisan, issue-centered institutions and think tanks
- Medical Institutions (public health organizations, teaching hospitals, etc.)
By implementing their designed project in collaboration with the Fulbright Specialist, host institutions:
- Gain global perspectives from experienced academics and professionals;
- Execute projects that require a rapid response or flexible timeline through short-term, year-round exchanges; and
- Build sustained relationships with individuals and institutions in the U.S.
Benefits for Specialists
The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), along with host institutions abroad, provide U.S.-based Specialists with full funding to participate in Fulbright Specialist projects. Benefits include:
- Round-trip, economy class airfare between the U.S. and host country
- Transit allowance
- All applicable visa fees
- Daily honorarium
- Enrollment in a limited health benefits program
- Lodging
- Meals
- In-country transportation
Upon returning to the U.S., program participants are able to contribute their newly gained knowledge and intercultural competencies to their home institution or organization. Program participants will also become part of a network of thousands of accomplished Fulbright alumni, opening the door to additional grant possibilities, enhanced career development, and alumni networking and leadership opportunities.
Program Timeline
Step One: Host institution develops project proposal and seeks approval
Step Two: Interested individuals apply to join the fulbright specialist roster
Step Three: Eligible individuals on the Fulbright Specialist roster matched to host institution projects
Step Four: Final approval by the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board
Step Five: Fulbright Specialist implements project abroad with host institution
