Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program Documents Required 2026
Required Documents Checklist
- Completed online application with essay responses addressing professional goals and program intentions.
- Official academic transcripts (for undergraduate degree; diplomas for other higher education degrees if transcripts do not show proof of degree obtained). English-language certified versions are required if not originally in English.
- Two letters of reference, with one letter required from the current employer. Letters must be in English.
- English language proficiency evidence (TOEFL iBT required for shortlisted candidates; test vouchers typically provided).
- Passport scan (may be a country-specific requirement).
- Signed employer confirmation letter (may be a country-specific requirement).
- Resume/CV.
DBT Bank Seeding Warning
Your primary bank account must be active, seeded with your Aadhaar card, and mapped on the NPCI mapper. The government disbursements are made exclusively via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
FAQs for Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
Q.Is the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship a degree-granting program?
No, the Humphrey Fellowship is a non-degree program. Participants engage in graduate-level academic coursework and professional development activities, but they do not earn an academic degree. Upon successful completion, Fellows receive a certificate of participation from the U.S. Department of State.
Q.Can I choose which U.S. university I will attend as a Humphrey Fellow?
No, Humphrey Fellows are not able to choose their host university. Instead, they are assigned by the Institute of International Education (IIE) to the most appropriate host institution from a selected list of U.S. universities. Placements are determined based on the Fellow's professional field and area of interest.
Q.Does the fellowship provide financial support for dependents (family members)?
The Humphrey Program does not provide an additional maintenance allowance or financial support for accompanying dependents (spouse or children). While Fellows may apply to bring their family on J-2 visas after arriving in the U.S., they must provide proof of sufficient financial support, adequate health insurance coverage for their dependents, and childcare plans, all at their own expense. Country-specific policies may also apply regarding dependents.
Q.What level of English language proficiency is required for the program?
Applicants must demonstrate strong English language ability. While some U.S. Embassies/Fulbright Commissions may accept IELTS scores for initial application, shortlisted candidates for the Humphrey Fellowship are typically required to take the TOEFL iBT exam. Test vouchers are usually provided for finalists. Specific minimum scores (e.g., TOEFL iBT score of 71) may be specified by individual nominating countries.