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Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships provide an opportunity for Indian faculty and professionals to participate in educational training in the United States. These fellowships awarded by US educational institutions for not less than four months but not more than nine months are for teaching, research or a combination of both.

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Field of Study

The fellowships are suitable for research and teaching in fields and areas that promote global knowledge and exchange. The most important fields are:

• Agricultural Sciences
• Computer Science (cybersecurity, AI, quantum computing, big data)
• Public Health (pandemic preparedness, surveillance systems)
• Urban and Regional Planning (smart cities, waste management)
• Women’s and Gender Studies

This breadth ensures a multi-disciplinary approach to solving pressing global issues, creating a space for innovation and dialogue between experts in India and the US.

Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships Opportunities

Research

At the application stage, candidates should state how their research is relevant to either India or the United States and the feasibility of conducting such research in the United States.

Teaching

Indian researchers have the chance to apply and teach or co-teach courses at several educational institutions in the United States.

Research and Teaching

Some candidates may wish to combine these activities. In that case, the extent to which they will research and the extent to which they will teach should be clearly stated in the project proposal.

Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships Benefits

The fellowship provides:

• J-1 Visa Support
• Monthly Stipend
• Round-trip Economy Airfare
• Health Insurance
• Settling-in and Professional Allowances

For grants of eight or nine months, a dependent allowance and international travel support may be available for one eligible dependent.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships, applicants must:

• Academic: PhD holder with at least 5 years of teaching/research experience.
• Professional: Master’s degree and at least 5 years of work experience.
• Recent significant publications of no more than 30 pages.
• Employer recommendation letter guaranteeing leave for the duration of the fellowship.

Candidates must outline their research/teaching plans related to their home institution and how they can address academic needs in the United States.

Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowship Application Process

Applicants must submit their applications online at apply.iie.org/fvsp2025.

Key Steps:

1. Submit an online application at the Fulbright Application Portal.
2. Upload required documents:
   • Recent publication
   • Letter of Support from Home Institution
   • FNAPE Applicant Annexure
3. Follow the FNAPE Applicant Checklist to avoid missing steps.

For queries, contact: [email protected]

Selection and Timeline

Important Guidelines

You can apply for one Fulbright-Nehru Program Fellowship in a cycle.

• It is not possible to apply for the Fulbright-Nehru Program and the Fulbright Kalam Grant at the same time.
• Applicants who commit plagiarism will get disqualified.
• Visas are not extendable or transferable.
• Late applicants who apply after the deadline will be ineligible.
• Both academic and professional considerations are important in applying for this fellowship. A responsible applicant can actively search for and secure a US educational institution with relevant educational objectives.

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Conclusion

Only Indian researchers who get selected for the Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships can receive money. This program is for meritorious people who want to change the world for the better.

FAQs

Can I submit more than one application for the Fulbright-Nehru Scholarship?

No, you can only apply to one category per cycle.

What is the duration of the Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships?

The grant duration is between 4 and 9 months.

Are dependent allowances provided for all scholars?

Dependent allowances are available only for 8- and 9-month fellowships.

What if I plagiarize a part of my application?

Plagiarism will result in immediate disqualification.

What if I have not secured a host institution in the US before applying?

It is not a requirement, but it is a good practice as it will make your application more vital.