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About the Fulbright Program

The Fulbright Program, the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government, is designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. The Fulbright Program offers grants to study, teach and conduct research for U.S. citizens to go abroad and for non-U.S. citizens to come to the United States. The primary source of funding is an annual appropriation by the U.S. Congress to the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). Participating governments and host institutions, as well as corporations and foundations in foreign countries and in the United States also provide direct and indirect support.

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Benefits of the Fulbright Program

The Fulbright brand is internationally recognized as a program of excellence. The Fulbright alumni network includes heads of state, titans of industry,  preeminent scholars, world famous artists, Nobel prize winners, and even celebrities. By receiving an award, grantees are given access to a multitude of short-term and long-term rewards, including:
  • Lifetime membership to the prestigious Fulbright alumni network, including Fulbright Association chapters located around the world.
  • Noncompetitive eligibility for federal employment in the U.S. government. 
  • A permanent @fulbright.edu email address.
  • A unique opportunity for cultural immersion and learning.
  • Build a professional and personal global network of peer and institutions.
  • Expand your publishing network and foster new research collaborations.

Fulbright National Geographic panel