Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program 2027–2028 in the USA (Fully Funded Research Fellowship)

The Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program 2027–2028 offers an exciting opportunity for experienced academics, researchers, government officials, and professionals to conduct research at leading institutions in the United States. The programme aims to strengthen educational and professional ties between the United States and ASEAN member countries while supporting research on important regional issues.

Selected scholars will spend approximately three to four months in the United States during the first half of 2028. The programme encourages research that contributes to U.S.–ASEAN relations, regional cooperation, economic development, and shared policy priorities.

Fellowship Benefits

The Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program provides financial and professional support to selected participants. Benefits include:

• International airfare: Round-trip air travel between the participant’s home country and the United States.
• Monthly stipend: Financial support for living expenses during the research period.
• Professional allowance: Funding to support eligible professional activities.
• Settling-in allowance: Assistance with initial expenses upon arrival.
• Research expenses: Coverage of qualifying university laboratory and research fees, where applicable.
• Health and accident insurance: Insurance coverage in accordance with programme conditions.
• Academic networking: Opportunities to collaborate with U.S. universities, researchers, think tanks, and professional organisations.

The programme does not provide financial support for dependants. Applicants should review the applicable country-specific announcement for the exact funding terms.

Research Areas

Applicants may propose research projects addressing issues relevant to the U.S.–ASEAN relationship and the wider ASEAN region. Potential research areas include:

• Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
• Cybersecurity and digital transformation.
• Trade, investment, and economic integration.
• Public health and global health.
• Environmental sustainability and energy security.
• Maritime cooperation and international law.
• Education, journalism, and public administration.
• Supply chain resilience and critical minerals.

Projects with regional relevance and clear implications for ASEAN cooperation are particularly encouraged.

Eligibility Criteria

The programme generally welcomes experienced professionals working in universities, government agencies, private-sector organisations, think tanks, and nongovernmental organisations.

Applicants should generally:

• Be citizens of an eligible ASEAN member country.
• Reside in their eligible home country throughout the nomination and selection process.
• Demonstrate a strong record of academic or professional achievement.
• Have relevant experience related to U.S.–ASEAN issues.
• Demonstrate proficiency in English.
• Be able to undertake research at a U.S. institution for three to four months.
• Commit to returning to their home country after completing the programme.

Additional eligibility restrictions may apply, including rules concerning previous Fulbright awards and recent research or employment experience in the United States.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare an updated CV, a detailed research proposal, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents required by their national Fulbright commission or U.S. Embassy. A letter of invitation from a U.S. host institution is strongly encouraged and may be required before final selection.

Application Deadline

Application deadlines vary by participating country. Applicants should consult the relevant U.S. Embassy or Fulbright commission for the deadline and instructions applicable to their citizenship.

How to Apply

Visit the official U.S. Embassy Brunei Darussalam announcement and follow the application instructions for the Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative. Review the eligibility requirements carefully before preparing your research proposal and submitting your application.