Applications open for Fulbright U.S.-ASEAN Initiative

Deadline: 31-Dec-2025

The Fulbright U.S.-ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program invites university faculty, government officials, and professionals from ASEAN member states to conduct research in the U.S. on topics of regional significance. The program provides stipends, travel and settling-in allowances, and professional support while fostering engagement with U.S. academic and policy communities. Scholars are expected to advance understanding of the U.S.-ASEAN relationship, expand professional networks, and return to their home countries after the program.

Overview

The Fulbright U.S.-ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program provides ASEAN professionals with the opportunity to conduct research in the U.S. that addresses issues of regional importance. The program emphasizes projects that align with U.S.-ASEAN priorities and supports broad regional initiatives across sectors including economics, technology, education, public health, maritime cooperation, and trade.

Objectives and Focus Areas

The program encourages research and professional development in:

• Economic and financial integration

• AI safety and policy development

• Technology adoption and digital innovation

• Maritime cooperation and Indo-Pacific engagement

• Education, journalism, and information science

• Law, governance, and public administration

• Public health, pandemic preparedness, and food safety

• Trade, investment, and regional integration

It complements other initiatives such as the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative and supports reciprocal research by U.S. Fulbright scholars in ASEAN countries.

Who is Eligible?

Applicants must:

• Be citizens and residents of an ASEAN country

• Be university faculty, government officials, or professionals in think tanks/NGOs

• Demonstrate significant scholarly or professional accomplishments related to U.S.-ASEAN issues

• Meet English proficiency requirements

• Identify a potential U.S. host institution (letters of invitation encouraged)

Ineligibility criteria:

• Recent or current study, teaching, or research in the U.S.

• Participation in a Fulbright program within the past five years

• Failure to meet medical clearance requirements

Award Benefits

• Monthly stipend: US$2,710 – US$3,145 (based on host city)

• Airfare: Direct round-trip economy-class ticket

• Professional & settling-in allowance: US$1,250 one-time

• University lab/research fees: Up to US$3,000 (case-by-case)

• Dependents: No support provided

Program Structure

• Scholars travel to the United States for research aligned with program objectives

• Expected to engage in:

  • Academic exchange through lectures, seminars, and workshops

  • Networking with U.S. professionals and researchers

  • Sharing ASEAN perspectives in relevant forums

• Scholars must return to their home ASEAN country following program completion

How to Apply / What to Do

1. Identify a likely U.S. host institution

2. Prepare and submit online application materials, including:

   • Project statement (3–5 pages)

   • Bibliography

   • Curriculum vitae (up to six pages)

   • Recommendation letters (minimum two)

   • Passport bio page

   • Letter of invitation from a U.S. host institution (preferred)

3. Ensure all eligibility criteria and medical documentation are met

4. Submit application by the specified deadline (check the Fulbright/IIE website)

Tips for Applicants

• Clearly demonstrate impact on U.S.-ASEAN relations

• Highlight previous experience and achievements in relevant areas

• Provide a strong project plan with feasible objectives and methodology

• Engage a credible U.S. host institution to strengthen your application

• Ensure recommendation letters reflect both scholarly and professional accomplishments

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply?

University faculty, government officials, and professionals from think tanks or NGOs residing in ASEAN member states.

2. What topics are eligible?

Research must focus on U.S.-ASEAN relations and may include economics, technology, AI, public health, education, maritime cooperation, trade, and governance.

3. What does the award cover?

Monthly stipend, airfare, settling-in allowance, and case-by-case coverage of university/research fees.

4. Are dependents supported?

No, the program does not provide support for dependents.

5. Is a U.S. invitation required?

A letter of invitation is preferred at application and mandatory before final selection. Applicants should identify a likely host institution.

6. Can applicants with prior U.S. experience apply?

Preference is given to those without recent significant U.S. experience. Past Fulbright recipients or recent J-1 Exchange Visitors may be ineligible.

7. Do scholars have to return home after the program?

Yes, scholars must return to their home ASEAN country after completing their research in the U.S.

Conclusion

The Fulbright U.S.-ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program offers a prestigious opportunity for ASEAN professionals to engage in research that advances understanding of regional U.S.-ASEAN relations, expand professional networks, and gain international exposure. By combining financial support, academic mentorship, and cross-cultural engagement, the program empowers scholars to contribute to ASEAN regional development and long-term policy insights.

For more information, visit U.S. Embassy in Brunei Darussalam.