The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is the United States government’s flagship international educational exchange scholarship. For Nepali students, it offers a fully funded master’s degree at a top American university — covering tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and round-trip airfare. The 2027–28 cycle is now open through 31 May 2026, administered by the United States Educational Foundation in Nepal (USEF-Nepal).
Quick Facts
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Fulbright Foreign Student (Master’s) Program 2027–28 |
| Host Country | United States of America |
| Study Level | Postgraduate (Master’s Degree) |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Application Deadline | 31 May 2026, 11:59 PM NPT |
| Programme Start | Fall 2027 (August–September 2027) |
| Apply Through | USEF-Nepal, Kathmandu |
| Official Website | usefnepal.org |
What Does the Fulbright Scholarship Cover?
- Tuition and fees: Full tuition at a US university for the duration of the master’s programme
- Living stipend: Monthly allowance to cover accommodation, food, and personal expenses
- Round-trip airfare: Economy class ticket from Kathmandu to the USA and return
- Health insurance: Comprehensive US health insurance policy
- Books and supplies: Annual allowance for academic materials
- Pre-academic training: English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programme in the USA if required
Eligibility Requirements
- Nepali citizen residing in Nepal at time of application
- Bachelor’s degree completed (minimum second division / 55% or equivalent)
- Minimum 2 years of relevant professional experience preferred
- Strong English proficiency (TOEFL iBT 79+ or IELTS 6.5+ preferred)
- Demonstrated leadership potential and commitment to return to Nepal
- NOT eligible: current Nepali government employees applying for government-funded roles simultaneously; dual US citizens or US permanent residents
Fields of Study
The Fulbright programme is open to all fields of study. Competitive fields for Nepali applicants in recent years include:
- Public health and epidemiology
- Environmental science and climate policy
- Education policy and administration
- Economics and development studies
- Engineering (civil, environmental, electrical)
- Computer science and data science
How to Apply — Step by Step
- Register on the Fulbright online application portal (link on usefnepal.org)
- Write your Statement of Purpose — the most important part of your application (600–800 words)
- Request 3 reference letters from academic or professional supervisors
- Attach academic transcripts, degree certificates, and English test scores
- Submit online before 31 May 2026, 11:59 PM NPT
- Shortlisted candidates are called for interview at USEF-Nepal offices in Kathmandu
- Final nominees are forwarded to the Institute of International Education (IIE) in New York for university placement
Tips for a Strong Fulbright Application
- Make your Statement of Purpose Nepal-focused. Fulbright values candidates who will use their US education to benefit Nepal. End your essay with a clear plan for what you will do upon returning.
- Choose your references wisely. Academic supervisors who can speak to your research ability are ideal. Give referees at least 6 weeks’ notice.
- List realistic universities. You will be placed at a US university after selection. Researching which universities offer strong programmes in your field shows the selection committee you are serious.
- Contact USEF-Nepal directly if you have questions. They run free orientation sessions for applicants.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there a GRE or GMAT requirement?
- Fulbright does not require GRE/GMAT at the application stage. However, individual US universities may require it for admission. Check the requirements of your target programmes.
- Can I choose the university I attend?
- You can list university preferences, but final placement is handled by the IIE based on your field, programme fit, and university capacity.
- Is the Fulbright renewable?
- It covers the standard duration of your master’s programme (typically 1–2 years). Extensions are not standard but may be possible in exceptional cases.
- Can I bring my family to the USA?
- Fulbright does not cover dependants. You may apply for family visas independently, but financial support for dependants is your responsibility.
The Fulbright programme has sent hundreds of Nepali scholars to the USA since 1950. The deadline is 31 May 2026 — apply through USEF-Nepal today.