Humphrey Fellowship Program (Fully Funded)

In 1978, President Hubert H. Humphrey founded the Humphrey Fellowship Program to honor the late Senator and Vice. The program was created to assist developing nations and promote the values of democracy and social justice. It offers opportunities to non-U.S. citizens to study, teach, conduct research, and find solutions to pressing global challenges. Humphrey Fellows are selected based on their leadership potential and academic merit, and they must work and live in their host countries while sharing their culture and fostering intercultural understanding.

For more information on the Humphrey Fellowship Program, read this article to the end.

Humphrey Fellowship Summary

• Host Institution: US institutions
• Level of Study: Graduate-level study
• Eligible Nationalities: Sub-Saharan Africa, East Asia and the Pacific, Europe and Eurasia, South and Central Asia, The Middle East and North Africa, The Western Hemisphere
• Number of Recipients: 150

Humphrey Fellowship Coverage

The Humphrey Fellowship Program gives a lot of support to its participants, making sure they have everything they need for a good experience. This support covers many parts of their studies and professional experience, and typically covers the following:

• Tuition and University Fees
• Monthly Maintenance Stipend
• English Language Training
• Air Travel Expenses
• Professional Activities
• Accident/Sickness Coverage
• Books
• Settling-in Allowance

Humphrey Fellowship Eligibility Requirements

Non-U.S. citizens interested in applying to the Humphrey Fellowship Program must meet specific eligibility requirements, which vary depending on the program and the applicant’s country of citizenship. For instance, Chinese applicants must demonstrate proficiency in both written and verbal English communication, with a minimum TOEFL score of 42.

Candidates from Haiti must also show they are good at both written and spoken English by getting a minimum TOEFL score of 525 (paper-based) or 71 (internet-based). However, very promising candidates with lower scores can still be nominated and may be chosen for one of the two English training programs.

However here is a list of general eligibility requirements for non-U.S. citizens.

• Be a citizen of an eligible country.
• Have an undergraduate (Bachelor’s) degree.
• Have at least five years of full-time work experience.
• Show leadership skills and a record of public service.
• Have limited experience in the United States.
• Be proficient in English.

Humphrey Fellowship Application Process

Applying for the Humphrey Fellowship involves a few important steps that will guide you and help you have the best chance of being accepted.

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Applicants should check the official Humphrey Fellowship Program website to determine if they are eligible or not. Only those who meet the eligibility criteria will be considered. Before applying, confirm that you fulfill the requirements, including citizenship, educational background, and professional experience. For example, the Humphrey Fellowship Program typically requires applicants to be non-U.S. citizens, hold a bachelor’s degree and meet specific language or academic requirements.

Step 2: Prepare Necessary Documents

If you are eligible for the program, you can start gathering the necessary documents required for the application. These documents typically include academic records, letters of recommendation or endorsement from your employer, and proof of English proficiency for applicants from non-English-speaking countries. Additionally, a writing sample may be requested, particularly for those applying to the Communications and Journalism program.

Applicants from non-US countries, like Cabo Verde and Burma, must submit certain documents. These include proof of citizenship or permanent residency and proof of English language ability. These documents ensure applicants meet the requirements and can take part in the program. Proof of English language ability shows they can communicate well in English, which is important for their success, while proof of citizenship or permanent residency confirms their legal status and eligibility to apply.

Step 3: Send Application

Interested applicants must apply through the U.S. Embassy (Public Affairs Section) or the Binational Fulbright Commission in their country, with deadlines varying by location. The application must include complete answers to all questions and essay responses in English that thoroughly address the prompts. You should also provide two letters of reference in English, one of which must be from your current employer. Official transcripts in English are required, showing courses and grades; if the transcript does not confirm your degree, include your diploma as well.

After sending your application you will receive a confirmation email acknowledging that your application has been received. Your application will undergo an initial review to ensure all required documents are complete and eligibility criteria are met.

Step 4: Attend Interview

The selection committee or panel, which might include reviewers from your country or region, will evaluate all your submitted documents. The review process might involve requesting additional documents for further assessment.

All applicants will then be notified whether they will proceed to the next step or not. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview. Applicants should be well-prepared to answer questions during the interview and remember to give their best effort, as the competition for this program is intense.

To prepare for the interview, practice answering common questions related to your field and your goals for the fellowship. Additionally, research the program thoroughly and be ready to explain how it aligns with your career goals.

Step 5: Wait for the Final Decision

For those who are chosen, the final decision will be made by a review board. If you are selected, you will receive detailed instructions on what to do next. This will include information about orientation, visa application, and other necessary preparations. You will also get guidance on arranging travel, housing, and any additional paperwork.

Once everything is ready and you have completed all preparations, you will start your fellowship program according to the given schedule. During the program, you will participate in various academic and professional activities designed to enhance your skills and knowledge.

Humphrey Fellowship Program Timeline

1. The deadlines for submitting the application vary by country. Contact the Public Affairs Section of the US Embassy in your country or the Binational Fulbright Committee for the application deadline.
2. The embassies and commissions submit their nomination to IIE in Washington DC by mid-September.
3. Fellowships are announced in February.
4. Humphrey Fellows will begin their academic journey between April and September. Those who will be required to take an English training and will need to arrive earlier before the start of their program.
5. Humphrey Fellows should complete their program in June of the following year.

The Humphrey Fellowship Program is a great opportunity for international students looking for educational opportunities outside their home country. This program will give them the chance to access world-class learning experiences without breaking the bank. However, due to its popularity, the competition for this program is very high. Therefore, applicants must give their best to stand out, carefully follow the application process to get things right and ensure they meet all the requirements before applying.

We hope this article was helpful. To learn more information on studying abroad, check out the Available Programs for International Students and the US Study Guide!