
Looking to enhance your leadership and professional skills in the United States? The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program 2026–2027 is now open for applications! This fully funded, non-degree program is tailored for mid-career professionals from around the world who are committed to effecting positive change in their home countries.
In this guide, you’ll find key information about the program’s benefits, eligibility requirements, fields of study, and step-by-step application instructions.
About the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program brings accomplished professionals from designated countries to the U.S. for a year of academic enrichment, leadership development, and professional collaboration. Unlike traditional degree programs, the Humphrey Fellowship is a non-degree program focused on knowledge exchange, policy study, and capacity building.
Program Goals
The fellowship is designed to:
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Develop future leaders by exposing fellows to U.S. models, institutions, and values.
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Foster mutual understanding through professional and cultural exchange.
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Build sustainable partnerships between U.S. citizens and international professionals.
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Strengthen global networks for democratic governance, innovation, and development.
Fellowship Overview
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Level of Study: Professional (Non-degree)
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Host Institutions: Designated U.S. universities
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Study Destination: United States
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Program Duration: 10–12 months
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Number of Fellowships: Approximately 200 annually
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Application Deadline: Before October 1, 2025 (Deadlines vary by country—check with your local U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Commission)
Eligible Fields of Study
Fellows participate in a wide range of disciplines relevant to national development:
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Educational Administration, Planning & Policy
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Higher Education Administration
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Public Health Policy & Management
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Agricultural & Rural Development
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Communications/Journalism
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Law & Human Rights
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Finance & Banking
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Technology Policy & Management
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Public Policy Analysis & Administration
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HIV/AIDS Policy & Prevention
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Substance Abuse Education, Treatment & Prevention
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Trafficking in Persons Policy & Prevention
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Environmental Policy & Climate Change
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Urban & Regional Planning
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Human Resource Management
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Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)
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Economic Development
Fellowship Benefits
The Hubert Humphrey Fellowship is fully funded and includes:
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Full tuition and fees at the host U.S. university
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Monthly living stipend and a settling-in allowance
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Accident and health insurance
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Pre-academic English training (if required)
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Book and study materials allowance
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One-time computer subsidy
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Round-trip airfare (international and domestic)
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Professional Development allowance (for conferences, workshops, and field trips)
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Humphrey Fellowship, applicants must:
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Be a citizen of an eligible country in Sub-Saharan Africa, Europe and Eurasia, Middle East and North Africa, East Asia and Pacific, South and Central Asia, and Western Hemisphere.
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Hold at least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
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Have a minimum of five years of full-time professional experience
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Demonstrate leadership qualities and a commitment to public service
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Have limited or no prior experience in the United States
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Be proficient in English
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Be eligible for a J-1 visa
📌 Important: Specific eligibility requirements and deadlines vary by country. Applicants must apply through the U.S. Embassy, Public Affairs Section, or Fulbright Commission in their home country.
How to Apply for the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program
Follow these steps to apply:
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Check Your Country’s Requirements
Visit the official Humphrey Fellowship Program website and select your country to view the local application process and deadlines. -
Contact the U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Office
Reach out to your country’s designated authority (usually the U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Commission) to confirm application procedures and required documents. -
Prepare and Submit Your Application
Required documents typically include:-
Application form (online or PDF)
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Personal statement and professional goals
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Academic transcripts and degrees
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Resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
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English proficiency test scores (TOEFL or IELTS)
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Letters of recommendation
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Undergo Interviews and Screening
Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interviews and must meet all eligibility and visa requirements.
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