Fellows create academic and professional programs in consultation with advisors. Academic coursework can be combined with professional enrichment activities to ensure the program design and content meet Fellows expectations. The Humphrey Fellowship is a non-degree program.

Fellows are grouped at U.S. host institutions that have been selected through a competitive process. Humphrey coordinators and advisers provide academic and administrative support to each Fellow on individualized program design and implementation. Fellows attend a seminar in Washington, D.C. to engage in discussions with leaders from the U.S. government, multinational organizations, and the private sector. Throughout the year, Fellows pursue a variety of professional activities, including site visits and workshops.