Are you a mid-career professional looking to deepen your expertise while building global connections? The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship in the USA offers a fully funded, non-degree academic experience designed for accomplished professionals from around the world.
Funded by the U.S. Department of State, the program emphasizes mutual exchange, leadership development, and hands-on exposure to American institutions and values.
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship 2026
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship 2026 in the USA is a ten-month professional development program that brings international professionals to top American universities for a unique combination of academic coursework, professional experiences, and leadership training. Unlike traditional graduate study programs, the Humphrey Fellowship focuses on practical knowledge and collaborative learning rather than earning a formal degree.
The goal of the program is to strengthen leadership skills, promote public service, and foster mutual understanding between the United States and other countries. Fellows return home not only with enhanced knowledge but also with a powerful global network of peers and mentors.
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | United States of America |
| Program Type | Non-degree professional fellowship |
| Funded By | U.S. Department of State |
| Duration | 10 months |
| Eligible Applicants | Mid-career professionals from eligible countries |
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded (Tuition, Stipend, Travel, Health Insurance, and more) |
| Language Requirement | English proficiency (TOEFL or equivalent required) |
| Application Deadline | Varies by country (Contact U.S. Embassy/Fulbright Commission for details) |
| Fields of Study | Public Policy, Human Rights, Public Health, Education, and others |
What Is the Humphrey Fellowship All About?
Named after the late U.S. Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey, this fellowship is rooted in the principles of democratic governance, public service, and international cooperation. It is administered by the Institute of International Education (IIE) and carried out in partnership with select U.S. universities.
Fellows are selected for their leadership potential and commitment to public service. Throughout the program, they participate in academic sessions, leadership seminars, workshops, and professional affiliations with U.S. organizations, institutions, or companies relevant to their field.
Fellows are placed at universities such as:
- Boston University
- Cornell University
- American University
- University of Minnesota
- Emory University
- Syracuse University
- Vanderbilt University
- Michigan State University
Each placement is determined based on the fellow’s professional background and program fit.
Benefits of the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship 2026
The fellowship is fully funded and includes comprehensive support throughout the program:
- Full tuition and fees at the host U.S. university
- Monthly living allowance to cover housing, food, and incidental expenses
- Health and accident insurance
- One-time computer and book allowance
- Round-trip international airfare
- Domestic travel in the U.S., when required for professional activities
- Pre-academic English training (if needed before placement)
- Support for conferences, field trips, and professional affiliations
These benefits ensure that fellows can focus entirely on professional development without financial stress.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship 2026 targets professionals who have demonstrated leadership ability, public service commitment, and the potential to drive positive change in their communities.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree (or an equivalent undergraduate qualification)
- At least five years of full-time professional experience (post-university)
- Mid-career status, preferably between the ages of 30 and 50
- Little or no recent U.S. experience
- Proven leadership qualities and commitment to public or community service
- Strong English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS scores may be required)
- Plans to return to their home country upon completion of the fellowship
Each participating country may have additional selection requirements or priorities.
Available Fields of Study
The program offers placement opportunities in a broad range of development-focused areas. These include, but are not limited to:
- Public Policy and Administration
- Human Rights and Law
- Journalism and Communications
- Educational Planning and Administration
- Higher Education Leadership
- Public Health Policy and Management
- HIV/AIDS Prevention and Treatment
- Substance Abuse Education and Prevention
- Technology and Innovation Policy
- Environmental and Climate Change Policy
- Agriculture and Rural Development
- Natural Resource Management
- Urban and Regional Planning
- Trafficking in Persons Prevention
- English Language Instruction
Applicants should select the category that aligns best with their background and future goals.
Eligible Regions
Professionals from the following regions are eligible to apply:
- Sub-Saharan Africa
- Middle East and North Africa
- South and Central Asia
- East Asia and the Pacific
- Europe and Eurasia
- Western Hemisphere
Each country’s U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Commission administers its own recruitment and selection process.
Required Documents
Applicants will typically need to prepare the following materials:
- Completed online application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or professional resume
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Two letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or Statement of Purpose
- Proof of English proficiency
- Valid passport or national ID
Additional documents or interviews may be requested by local selection committees.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
To apply for the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship 2026, follow these steps:
Visit the Official Website
Go to https://humphreyfellowship.org for a full overview of the program and its components.
Contact the Local U.S. Embassy or the Fulbright Commission
Application instructions vary by country. Reach out to your country’s U.S. mission for country-specific deadlines and requirements.
Review Eligibility Requirements
Ensure that you meet all academic, professional, and language criteria before applying.
Gather Your Documents
Begin assembling transcripts, recommendation letters, and other materials well ahead of the deadline.
Complete the Application Form
Submit your application through the appropriate local or embassy platform.
Submit Before the Deadline
Country-specific deadlines must be strictly observed.
Await Notification
Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interviews or further assessments before final selection.
Why Join the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship?
- Non-Degree Focused: Perfect for professionals who want development without enrolling in a degree-granting program.
- Leadership Training: Includes both academic coursework and real-world applications.
- Extensive Networking: Fellows collaborate with peers from over 100 countries.
- Cultural Exchange: Encourages mutual understanding between Americans and international professionals.
- Career Advancement: Many alumni go on to lead national programs, head international agencies, and implement reforms in their home countries.
Participation in the Humphrey Fellowship becomes a lifelong asset professionally, personally, and globally. For full details and to begin your application, visit: https://www.humphreyfellowship.org/program-overview/
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I already have a Master’s degree?
Yes. The fellowship is non-degree and open to mid-career professionals, regardless of past degrees.
Is the TOEFL required?
Yes. Most applicants will need to submit TOEFL scores or equivalent proof of English proficiency.
Do I choose the host university?
No. Placements are made by the program administrators based on your field and fit with the host institution.
Are dependents allowed?
Yes, but financial support for dependents is not guaranteed. Fellows are responsible for arranging and funding their stay.
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