Fulbright, established in 1946, stands as one of the most prestigious exchange programs in academia. It offers scholarships to students, teachers, and researchers worldwide, facilitating their studies abroad. By providing opportunities for individuals from various countries to study in the US, Fulbright not only enhances relations between nations but also fosters an exchange of knowledge and skills, crucial for global growth. It promotes understanding and cooperation between the US and other countries’ cultures.
Fulbright Foreign Student Programmer
The South African Fulbright Foreign Student Program aims to enable graduates from South African universities to pursue postgraduate studies at US universities. Prospective students undergo a rigorous application and interview process, receiving extensive support throughout their journey, including assistance with visa processing, health insurance, pre-departure briefing, and re-entry sessions.
The scholarship is not applicable for MBA programs or studies involving patient contact. It provides support to candidates in terms of:
- Tuition and fees allowance
- Travel allowance from South Africa to the US
- Settlement allowance in the US
- Monthly stipend
- Health benefits
- J-1 visa sponsorship
- Allowance for books and computer
Opportunities provided by the scholarship include:
- Visiting Student Researcher (non-degree): For candidates seeking research opportunities (PhD) rather than degree studies at a US university. Funded for 1 academic year as a Visiting Student Researcher (VSR).
- Master’s or PhD: For students pursuing a Master’s or Doctorate in the US. Funded for 2 years of study.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must fulfill the following criteria to apply:
- South African citizenship or permanent residency for at least 5 years
- Excellent academic records
- English language skills as required for the field (GRE and TOEFL scores)
- Degree requirements specific to the program of interest
- Interest in extracurricular and community-related programs
- Leadership potential, clear academic goals, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to benefitting their country upon return
How to Apply?
Applicants must complete and submit the online application form. They should read the program guidelines before applying and register an account to begin the application process. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 30 days after the closing date.
Documents Required
Candidates must submit the following documents with their application:
- Research or study objective
- Invitation letter from the host (for VSR applicants)
- ID documents or passport biodata page
- Degree certificates
- Grades and transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae
- Writing sample (for PhD and MA programs)
- Interview location page
- Three references
- Personal statement
Contact Details
Candidates with queries can email:
- Pretoria: fpsa@state.gov
- Cape Town: fpsa@state.gov
- Johannesburg: MothianeM@state.gov
- Durban: KnowlesSD@state.gov
Please note: Successful candidates will be notified within 30 days of the application deadline. If no notification is received by then, consider the application unsuccessful.