5 Tips to Jumpstart Your Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program Application

5 Tips to Start App

Are you new to Fulbright?  Visit the Getting Started page to get started!  Through a simple 6-step process, discover how to find the appropriate award for your interest and project, begin the necessary application steps, and build a competitive proposal - all in one place.

The Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program 2024-25 is open!  Here are five tips to get a head start on your application:

  1. Register your interest to receive application resources and program updates.  
    Connect with Fulbright provides applicants with information about recent program updates, webinar schedules, helpful resources, and suggestions for a strong application. Sign up today!
  2. Connect with Fulbright alumni in your field or region of interest.
    The Fulbright Scholar Directory helps applicants learn more about past projects and country priorities in your discipline. Many applicants reach out to alumni listed in the directory to learn more about their Fulbright experience or for assistance connecting with host institutions.
  3. Attend an office hour or webinar.
    We recommend that you join an office hour or attend a webinar hosted by Fulbright staff and alumni. During these sessions, you will learn important information about the application and review processes and recommendations on how to develop a compelling proposal.  Office function like group advising and are a great way to get your questions answered live by our staff.
  4. Connect with your Fulbright Liaison on campus to learn about leave and support policies.
    Fulbright Scholar Liaisons are a network of more than 1600 committed individuals working with faculty and administrators at U.S. higher education institutions, who advise applicants on the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program. Reach out to your Fulbright Liaison to learn more about your institution’s Fulbright policies and procedures, connect with Fulbright alumni on campus, and even receive feedback on your application materials.
  5. Connect with the Fulbright Outreach & Recruitment team at IIE.
    Office hours are the best way to get your general application questions answered, but what about your specific award or project?  Each world region is managed by an Outreach & Recruitment team member, whose contact information can be found in each award description on the website’s Awards offerings.  Please direct any questions about specific award requirements, country preferences, or your own project to the team members listed.

Want to learn more about the 2024-25 competition? View our archived recording, the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program: Opportunities for 2024-25.  Remember: you can find all past webinars recorded in the archive on our site.