The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is now open for applications for the 2026–2027 academic year. This prestigious initiative, funded by the U.S. Department of State, actively offers fully funded, non-degree fellowships to mid-career professionals from eligible countries worldwide. Designed to foster leadership development, global collaboration, and professional enrichment, the Humphrey Fellowship creates a unique platform for professionals to study and engage in meaningful academic and cultural exchange in the United States.
Unlike traditional graduate programs, the Humphrey Fellowship emphasises leadership enhancement and mutual understanding through non-degree study, hands-on professional placements, and deep immersion in American society. Fellows join select U.S. universities based on their specific fields of interest and long-term professional goals. As a result, participants expand their global perspectives, strengthen professional networks, and gain practical knowledge that directly contributes to progress and development in their home countries.
Summary
Host Institutions: U.S. universities selected by the program
Location: United States
Program Type: Fully Funded Fellowship (Non-degree Program)
Eligible Applicants: Mid-career professionals from eligible countries
Coverage: Tuition, housing, travel, health insurance, professional development, and more
Details of The Hubert Humphrey Fellowships 2026–2027
The Hubert Humphrey Fellowships 2026–2027 are designed for professionals who wish to expand their leadership skills, explore global best practices, and establish lasting connections across borders. The program actively facilitates knowledge sharing on globally relevant issues while deepening participants’ understanding of American values and institutions.
Named in honor of the late U.S. Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey, the fellowship actively builds a bridge between the United States and partner nations. It brings mid-career professionals together for a dynamic year of academic enrichment and hands-on professional engagement. While Fellows do not earn academic degrees, they benefit from customised programs that blend university coursework with real-world learning experiences, such as workshops, seminars, and field-based activities.
Furthermore, the program places participants at top-tier U.S. institutions like Boston University, Michigan State University, and Cornell University. There, they collaborate with American and international peers within their respective fields. In addition, Fellows advance their careers by participating in industry conferences, strategic networking events, and short-term professional placements with organisations aligned with their expertise.
Fields of Study
The fellowship program supports a wide range of fields that align with social progress, economic development, and human rights. Applicants can choose from the following eligible fields:
- Agricultural and Rural Development
- Communications and Journalism
- Economic Development
- Educational Administration, Planning, and Policy
- Finance and Banking
- Higher Education Administration
- HIV/AIDS Policy and Prevention
- Human Resource Management
- Law and Human Rights
- Natural Resources, Environmental Policy, and Climate Change
- Public Health Policy and Management
- Public Policy Analysis and Public Administration
- Substance Abuse Education, Treatment, and Prevention
- Teaching of English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)
- Technology Policy and Management
- Trafficking in Persons Policy and Prevention
- Urban and Regional Planning
Each fellow is placed at a U.S. university based on their professional specialisation and interests, allowing for tailored programming that enhances personal and career growth.
Eligibility Criteria for Hubert Humphrey Fellowships 2026–2027
To be considered for the Hubert Humphrey Fellowships 2026–2027, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Be a citizen of an eligible country in Sub-Saharan Africa, Europe and Eurasia, the Middle East and North Africa, East Asia and Pacific, South and Central Asia, or the Western Hemisphere
- Hold a first university degree (bachelor’s level) or equivalent
- Have at least five years of substantial, full-time professional experience in a relevant field
- Demonstrate leadership qualities and a commitment to public service in their community or profession
- Have limited or no prior experience in the United States
- Possess proven English language proficiency (TOEFL scores may be required depending on the applicant’s background and program requirements)
In addition to these general criteria, specific eligibility requirements may vary by country. Prospective applicants should consult their local U.S. Embassy, Fulbright Commission, or Public Affairs Section for details on the selection process, required documents, and regional deadlines.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents to complete the application process:
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Detailed resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
- Personal statement outlining career goals and fellowship objectives
- Two letters of recommendation from professional or academic sources
- TOEFL test results or other evidence of English proficiency (if applicable)
- Valid national ID or passport
- Any additional documentation required by the local nominating agency
All application materials should be submitted in English. Incomplete or inaccurately completed applications may be disqualified.
Benefits of the Hubert Humphrey Fellowships 2026–2027
The Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program is a fully funded initiative that removes the financial burden from participants, allowing them to focus on personal and professional development fully. Fellows receive the following benefits:
- Complete coverage of tuition and academic fees at the host university
- A monthly maintenance allowance to support housing, meals, and incidental expenses
- A one-time settling-in allowance upon arrival in the U.S., helping fellows adjust smoothly
- Pre-academic English language training, if required by the program, to strengthen language skills
- Accident and sickness insurance coverage is provided throughout the fellowship period
- A one-time computer subsidy, enabling fellows to engage in academic and professional work
- A book allowance to cover essential educational materials
- Round-trip international airfare, covering travel to and from the U.S.
- A domestic travel allowance, supporting participation in required program events within the U.S.
- A professional development stipend, which allows fellows to attend conferences, training sessions, and site visits relevant to their field
These comprehensive benefits are designed to support fellows’ academic success, personal comfort, and professional enrichment throughout their time in the U.S.
How to Apply
The application process for the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship is managed through U.S. Embassies and Fulbright Commissions in participating countries. Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the official Humphrey Fellowship website and choose your country of citizenship.
- Check the country-specific eligibility requirements and deadlines.
- Submit your application through the appropriate channel (usually an online portal or direct submission to the local U.S. Embassy).
- Prepare for an interview or screening conducted by your country’s selection committee.
- If selected, participate in pre-departure orientations and follow instructions for university placement and visa processing.
Deadline
The deadline to apply for the Hubert Humphrey Fellowships 2026–2027 varies by country. In most cases, the application period closes before October 1, 2025. Applicants are strongly encouraged to check their country-specific timeline well in advance to avoid missing important dates.
