The Fulbright Visiting Scholar Research Award 2026–2027 supports academics and researchers from Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, and Tuvalu to conduct non-degree, post-doctoral research in the United States. The award provides full funding, including airfare, stipends, and professional allowances. Applicants may propose 3–12 month research projects beginning between August 2026 and May 2027.

Fulbright Visiting Scholar Research Award 2026–2027 (Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Tuvalu)

Overview

The Fulbright Visiting Scholar Research Award enables scholars from eligible Pacific Island nations to undertake advanced research in the United States. This program strengthens academic capacity, builds international collaboration, and supports regional scholars in engaging with U.S. universities, laboratories, and experts.

The award supports non-degree, post-doctoral research and offers scholars the freedom to pursue their own project proposals within a 3–12 month timeframe.

Why This Award Matters

• Provides full financial support for scholarly research

• Expands academic networks between the Pacific and the United States

• Enhances teaching, research quality, and institutional development

• Enables post-doctoral scholars to gain U.S. academic experience

• Strengthens long-term collaboration between American and Pacific Island institutions

Key Program Features

• Research duration: 3 to 12 months

• Start dates: Anytime between August 2026 and May 2027

• Research type: Non-degree, post-doctoral research

• Host: Accredited U.S. universities, research centers, or institutions

Funding Benefits

The award includes:

• Round-trip international airfare

• Monthly stipend

• Professional development allowance

• Settling-in allowance

• Travel and baggage allowance

Applicants should clearly specify in their application and project title that they are applying for the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Award.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants must be:

• Citizens or permanent residents of Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, or Tuvalu

• Academics or researchers with a doctoral degree or equivalent professional training

• Proficient in English for academic engagement in the United States

Not eligible:

• U.S. citizens or permanent residents

Preferred Applicant Profile

Priority is given to:

• Full-time lecturers, assistant professors, associate professors, or full professors

• Applicants who intend to return to their home-country universities to continue teaching

• Scholars with strong research proposals addressing national, regional, or global issues

How to Apply

Applicants must prepare and submit the following through the official online application portal:

Required Application Materials

1. Online application

2. Project statement (up to 5 pages)

3. Bibliography

4. Curriculum vitae (up to 6 pages)

5. Three letters of recommendation

6. Scanned passport bio-data page

7. (Preferred) Letter of invitation from a U.S. host institution

8. Optional: Additional correspondence from potential U.S. hosts

Application Timeline

• Deadline: Friday, November 28, 2025

• Research may begin from August 2026 to May 2027

How the Program Works

1. Applicant submits a complete proposal through the online portal.

2. Applications undergo local and regional screening for eligibility and quality.

3. Preferred candidates may be contacted for additional information or interviews.

4. Final nominations are sent to the Fulbright program in the United States for approval.

5. Selected scholars receive pre-departure guidance and coordinate with their host institution.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete documents

• Not securing or attempting to secure a U.S. host institution invitation

• Exceeding page limits

• Weak or unclear project statements

• Missing the application deadline

• Not demonstrating English proficiency

• Failing to indicate that the application is for the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Award

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need a PhD to apply?

Yes. Applicants must have a doctoral degree or equivalent professional experience at the time of application.

2. Can I choose any U.S. institution for my research?

Yes. Applicants may propose any accredited U.S. university or research center. A letter of invitation is preferred.

3. How long can the research period be?

Between 3 and 12 months, starting from August 2026 to May 2027.

4. Are all expenses covered?

Yes. The award covers airfare, stipends, allowances, and professional costs.

5. Can U.S. citizens apply?

No. Only citizens or permanent residents of Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, and Tuvalu are eligible.

6. Is English proficiency required?

Yes. Scholars must demonstrate adequate English skills to engage academically in the U.S.

7. Is prior teaching experience important?

Yes. Preference is given to full-time faculty who will return to teach in their home institutions.

Conclusion

The Fulbright Visiting Scholar Research Award 2026–2027 is a premier opportunity for scholars from Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, and Tuvalu to conduct funded research in the United States. With strong academic support, full financial benefits, and international collaboration opportunities, the program empowers researchers to advance their fields and contribute meaningfully to their home institutions and communities.