Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program Apply Online 2026
How to Apply Online (Step-by-Step)
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**Learn Application Requirements:** Visit the official program website (humphreyfellowship.org) or your local U.S. Embassy/Fulbright Commission website to review the Call for Proposals and FAQ, confirming eligibility and country-specific deadlines. Deadlines vary by country, generally falling between late June and mid-August 2026 for the 2027-2028 program cycle, or prior to August 2026 for the 2026-2027 cycle.
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**Create Account:** Register on the online application portal (apply.iie.org/huberthhumphrey). Your email address will be your username; ensure you record your password in a secure location.
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**Complete Online Application:** Fill out all sections of the application form. It is recommended to draft your essay responses (e.g., professional goals, public service commitment, challenge statement) in a separate document and then paste them into the online text boxes to avoid losing work.
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**Upload Required Documents:** Submit official academic transcripts (with certified English translations if originals are not in English), your most recent Resume/CV, and a scan of your passport (if required by your specific country). Diplomas are only needed if transcripts do not show degree attainment.
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**Secure Letters of Reference:** Arrange for two letters of reference, one of which must be from your current employer, to be submitted. These should ideally be submitted directly by the recommenders through the online system or as per country-specific instructions.
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**English Proficiency Test:** While some countries may accept IELTS for initial application, if you are shortlisted as a finalist, you will be required to take the TOEFL iBT exam (test vouchers are typically provided by the program).
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**Review and Submit:** Thoroughly review your entire application for any errors or omissions before the final submission.
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**Interviews:** Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an in-person interview with a selection committee.
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.