Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships
Status Check
The previous application cycle (2025–26) closed on 1 July 2026. The upcoming 2026–27 cycle is expected to open soon. We will update the links here as soon as the official notification is released.
👉 View active scholarships you can apply for todayAbout the Program
The Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships are offered by the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) and fund Indian professionals to pursue a Master's degree at a US university. Unlike other scholarships, Fulbright-Nehru requires at least 3 years of full-time professional work experience post-graduation. Indian government employees (central/state civil services) are generally ineligible, though faculty at IITs, IIMs, and CSIR labs are exempt.
Benefits & Financial Support
Fully funded: J-1 visa support, round-trip airfare, tuition fees, living expenses, and accident & sickness coverage in the USA. Approx. USD $35,000–45,000/year.
Inclusions
100% tuition coverage, living allowance, U.S. visa assistance, health coverage, and round-trip international travel.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
Postgraduate
Must be enrolled in relevant courses. Minimum 55% marks required in previous exam.
Financial & Category
Important Note
Must have at least three years of full-time, paid professional work experience relevant to the field of study.
Selection Process
Based on academic record, professional experience (min 3 years), leadership potential, proposal essay, and panel interviews.
Renewal Policy
N/A (covers program duration).
Application Process
- 1
Visit usief.org.in.
- 2
Register on the Fulbright online application portal.
- 3
Fill essay, CV, and transcripts.
- 4
Submit before the June deadline.
- 5
Attend panel interviews if shortlisted.
Documents Required
Important Dates
Application Deadline
1 July 2026
Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships: deadline July 1, 2026 (for 2027–28 academic year). Postdoctoral Research: July 15, 2026. Apply via USIEF India.
Dates are subject to change as per the provider's official notification. Applicants are encouraged to apply well before the closing date.
Scholarship Quick Facts
Common Questions (FAQs)
Q.What is the work experience requirement for Fulbright-Nehru?
Applicants must have at least 3 years of full-time, paid, professional work experience completed after their bachelor's degree graduation before the application deadline.
Q.Are government employees eligible for Fulbright-Nehru?
Employees of Indian central or state government services are generally ineligible. However, faculty at IITs, IIMs, IISc, CSIR labs, and National Labs may be eligible — check the USIEF site for institution-specific exceptions.
Q.How many Fulbright types exist for Indians?
There are 4 main types: Master's Fellowships, Doctoral Research Fellowships, Postdoctoral Research Fellowships, and Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowships. Each has different eligibility and deadlines.
Q.What is the Fulbright-Nehru deadline for 2026?
The Master's Fellowship deadline is July 1, 2026; Postdoctoral Research Fellowship deadline is July 15, 2026 — both for the 2027–28 academic year.
Help & Contact Support
Official Support
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Legal Disclaimer
IndiaScholarships.in attempts to provide accurate information manually curated from official sources. However, scholarship details, timelines, and eligibility can change without notice as per the provider's discretion. Applying for a scholarship does not guarantee selection. Always verify all information on the official United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) website before final submission.
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