Selection Process:
Fulbright grantees are selected through an open and merit-based competition. This ensures that the most qualified applicants are fairly chosen in a way that contributes to the main goals of the program: to provide overseas experience to individuals not previously afforded such an opportunity and to promote mutual understanding and benefit through contributions to both host and home communities.

Although selection processes vary by program, selection is a binational collaborative process that involves the input of partner agencies, U.S. Embassies, Fulbright Commissions and the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board (FSB).

In general, selection is made on the basis of academic and professional record, language preparation, feasibility of the project or course of study, personal qualifications and preference factors established by the FSB and the Fulbright Commissions.

Placement & Affiliation

Some applicants may need a letter of invitation, especially for open "All Disciplines" awards.  Others may be encouraged, but not required, to submit such letters, while some countries specifically ask that no contact be made with potential hosts.

• Further information about letters of invitation

Orientation Programs
U.S. students and scholars going to select countries are invited to pre-departure orientations, often held in Washington, DC, before departing the United States.

Many Fulbright Commissions and U.S. Embassies also host in-country orientations for U.S. Fulbrighters.