Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowship 2027-28: Dates, Eligibility, and How to Apply

Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowship — Overview

The Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowship is a prestigious program designed for Indian PhD scholars who wish to conduct part of their dissertation research in the United States. This fellowship is specifically aimed at enhancing the academic and professional development of Indian students by providing them with access to U.S. resources and expertise. The fellowship is administered by the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) and is fully funded, covering various expenses associated with research in the U.S.

Key Highlights

• Fully funded fellowship for Indian PhD students.
• Duration of 6 to 9 months for research in the U.S.
• Covers living expenses, airfare, and health insurance.
• Supports a wide range of disciplines, with a focus on technology and social sciences.
• Requires a high-quality writing sample and letters of recommendation.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be an Indian citizen.
• Currently registered as a PhD scholar at an Indian institution on or before November 1, 2025.
• Expected thesis submission must be at least three months after the grant end date.
• Must submit a high-quality writing sample from research.
• If employed, an Employer’s Endorsement form is required.

Stipend & Financial Benefits

• Monthly Stipend to cover living expenses in the U.S.
• Round-trip Economy Airfare.
• Professional Allowance for books, conferences, and research materials.
• Health Insurance under the Accident and Sickness Program for Exchanges (ASPE).

How to Apply

1. Visit the official IIE online portal: IIE Portal.
2. Register and create an account.
3. Fill out the application form with required details.
4. Upload necessary documents including academic transcripts and letters of recommendation.
5. Submit the application before the deadline of July 1, 2026.

Important Dates & Deadlines

• Application Opened: February 18, 2026
• Application Deadline: July 1, 2026
• Selection Interviews: Early November 2026
• Final Notification: April 2027
• Program Start: August / September 2027

Selection Process

The selection process for the Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowship involves a thorough review of applications, including the evaluation of the research proposal, academic standing, and alignment with U.S. host institutions. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews, and final selections will be based on merit and the quality of the application materials.

Contact Information

For more information, you can reach out to:

• Email: info@usief.org.in
• Phone: +91-11-4200-9000
• Address: USIEF, 12 Hailey Road, New Delhi - 110001, India