Fulbright Foreign Student Program (FFSP) Nepal 2027–28: Fully Funded Master’s Scholarship in the USA

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program (FFSP) is one of the world’s most prestigious and competitive fully funded scholarships, offering outstanding Nepali students the opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree in the United States. Administered in Nepal by the U.S. Educational Foundation in Nepal (USEF-Nepal), the program is part of the U.S. Government’s flagship Fulbright initiative focused on academic excellence, leadership, and cultural exchange.

Each year, the program selects a limited number of highly motivated Nepali professionals and graduates to study at accredited U.S. universities, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to Nepal’s development upon their return.

About the Fulbright Foreign Student Program

The Fulbright FFSP supports graduate-level study (Master’s only) in a wide range of academic disciplines, excluding Medicine and Nursing. The program is designed not only to provide academic advancement but also to promote mutual understanding between Nepal and the United States.

Fulbright scholars are expected to demonstrate:

• Strong academic capability
• Leadership potential
• Professional commitment
• A clear vision for applying their U.S. education in Nepal

Who Can Apply

The scholarship is open to Nepali citizens currently residing in Nepal who meet the following general criteria:

• Completion of 16 years of formal education (a four-year Bachelor’s degree or equivalent)
• Relevant professional work experience (generally three years for men and two years for women)
• Excellent academic performance
• Strong English language proficiency
• Commitment to return to Nepal after completing the program
• Eligibility for a U.S. J-1 Exchange Visitor visa

Applicants who already hold a U.S. degree, have extensive recent U.S. residency, or plan to immigrate permanently to the United States are typically not eligible.

Fields of Study

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program supports most academic disciplines, including:

• Public Policy and Governance
• Business, Economics, and Management
• Education
• Environmental Studies
• Science and Technology
• Social Sciences and Humanities

Clinical medical degrees and nursing programs are not supported under this scholarship.

Scholarship Benefits

Selected Fulbright scholars receive a comprehensive funding package, which typically includes:

• Full tuition coverage at a U.S. university
• Monthly living allowance
• Round-trip international airfare
• Health insurance for the duration of study
• Visa sponsorship under the J-1 Exchange Visitor category
• Pre-departure orientation and academic support
• Access to the global Fulbright alumni network

This support allows scholars to focus fully on their academic and professional development without financial burden.

Selection Process

The Fulbright FFSP selection process is highly competitive and multi-stage. Applications are evaluated based on academic merit, leadership qualities, clarity of study objectives, professional experience, and potential impact after returning to Nepal.

Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews, and final selections are made through a rigorous national and international review process.

Application Timeline

• Applications usually open early in the year
• Deadlines typically fall in late April
• Final selections are announced after interviews and review
• Selected scholars begin their studies in the United States in the following academic year (Fall intake)

Applicants are strongly advised to begin preparation early, especially for academic documents and personal statements.

Why the Fulbright Program Matters

The Fulbright Program has produced thousands of global leaders, policymakers, academics, and innovators. In Nepal, Fulbright alumni have played influential roles in government, education, civil society, entrepreneurship, and international development.

Beyond academic achievement, Fulbright scholars gain:

• Cross-cultural leadership experience
• Global professional networks
• Exposure to diverse perspectives and policy environments

The program emphasizes long-term impact and knowledge exchange rather than migration, making it ideal for individuals committed to Nepal’s progress.

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program for Nepal is more than a scholarship—it is a life-changing academic and leadership journey. For Nepali students and professionals aspiring to earn a fully funded U.S. Master’s degree while becoming part of a globally respected network, Fulbright remains one of the most powerful opportunities available.