Deadline: 31-Jul-2026
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program 2026–2027 offers accomplished mid-career professionals from Croatia an opportunity to undertake approximately ten months of non-degree graduate-level study and professional development in the United States. The fellowship supports leadership development, public service, professional collaboration, and academic enrichment while providing comprehensive financial support, including tuition, living expenses, travel, and professional development activities.
About the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is an international professional exchange initiative that brings experienced professionals to the United States for advanced academic study and professional development.
The fellowship is designed for mid-career leaders who have demonstrated professional achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service. Participants engage in non-degree graduate-level study, professional networking, leadership training, and practical learning experiences at selected U.S. universities.
The program strengthens global cooperation by helping professionals develop expertise, expand professional networks, and exchange knowledge with counterparts in the United States.
Program Objectives
The fellowship aims to:
- Develop leadership skills among mid-career professionals.
- Strengthen public service and civic engagement.
- Promote international professional collaboration.
- Enhance professional knowledge and expertise.
- Support institutional and community development.
- Foster long-term partnerships between international professionals and U.S. institutions.
- Encourage innovative solutions to public policy and societal challenges.
Fellowship Themes and Fields of Study
The fellowship supports professionals working in the following thematic areas:
Human and Institutional Capacity
- Public Policy Analysis and Public Administration.
- Economic Policy and Finance.
- Technology Policy and Management.
- Communications and Journalism.
- Law and Human Rights.
Sustainable Lands
- Agriculture and Rural Development.
- Environmental Policy and Climate-Related Initiatives.
- Natural Resource Management.
- Sustainable Development Practices.
Thriving Communities
- Urban and Regional Planning.
- Public Health Policy and Management.
- Substance Abuse Education, Prevention, and Policy.
- Educational Administration, Planning, and Policy.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows receive comprehensive support, including:
- Tuition and academic fees at the assigned U.S. host university.
- Monthly maintenance allowance for living expenses.
- Accident and sickness insurance coverage.
- Allowances for books and educational supplies.
- International travel to and from the United States.
- Funding for professional activities.
- Support for conferences, workshops, and networking events.
- Funding for field visits and professional study tours.
Fellowship Duration
- Approximately 10 months of non-degree graduate-level study and professional development.
- Fellowship activities take place at designated U.S. universities.
- Fellows participate in academic, professional, and leadership development programs throughout the fellowship period.
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of Croatia.
- Be accomplished mid-career professionals.
- Demonstrate strong leadership potential.
- Show a commitment to public service.
- Hold an undergraduate degree.
- Possess a minimum of five years of full-time professional experience.
- Work in a field aligned with the fellowship themes and disciplines.
- Meet all eligibility requirements established by the U.S. Embassy and the official fellowship selection process.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Strong candidates typically demonstrate:
- Significant professional accomplishments.
- Leadership experience within their sector.
- Commitment to community or public service.
- Potential to create positive change in their home country.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Interest in international knowledge exchange.
How the Fellowship Works
- Review eligibility requirements and fellowship priorities.
- Prepare academic, professional, and application documents.
- Submit an application through the U.S. Embassy or designated Fulbright Commission.
- Participate in the national selection process.
- Undergo evaluation based on leadership potential, professional achievements, and public service commitment.
- Receive nomination from the U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Commission.
- Complete final selection procedures.
- Be placed at a U.S. university that aligns with the applicant’s professional field.
- Participate in approximately ten months of study, networking, and professional development activities in the United States.
Selection Criteria
Applicants are evaluated based on:
- Leadership potential.
- Professional achievements.
- Public service commitment.
- Academic background.
- Relevance of professional experience.
- Capacity to contribute to their profession and community after completing the fellowship.
- Potential for international collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Why This Fellowship Matters
The Humphrey Fellowship provides experienced professionals with access to world-class academic resources, policy discussions, professional networks, and leadership development opportunities.
The program helps participants:
- Strengthen professional expertise.
- Develop advanced leadership skills.
- Build international networks.
- Gain exposure to innovative practices and policies.
- Contribute to institutional and societal development in their home countries.
- Enhance their long-term career impact.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly demonstrate leadership experience and achievements.
- Highlight measurable professional accomplishments.
- Explain commitment to public service and community impact.
- Show how the fellowship aligns with long-term career goals.
- Provide examples of professional influence and innovation.
- Demonstrate the potential to apply acquired knowledge after returning home.
- Present a well-defined vision for future contributions.
Common Application Mistakes
- Failing to demonstrate leadership experience.
- Submitting vague career objectives.
- Providing insufficient evidence of professional achievements.
- Not clearly explaining public service contributions.
- Applying without meeting the required professional experience threshold.
- Submitting incomplete application materials.
- Failing to connect professional goals with fellowship objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program?
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is a non-degree professional exchange program that provides experienced professionals with advanced study, leadership development, and professional collaboration opportunities in the United States.
How long is the fellowship?
The fellowship lasts approximately 10 months and combines academic study, leadership development, and professional enrichment activities.
Is a degree awarded at the end of the fellowship?
No. The program provides non-degree graduate-level study and professional development rather than a formal academic degree.
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants are accomplished mid-career professionals from Croatia who hold an undergraduate degree, have at least five years of full-time professional experience, and demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to public service.
What expenses are covered?
The fellowship covers tuition and fees, living expenses, insurance, books and supplies, international travel, and professional development activities.
How are fellows selected?
Applicants are nominated through U.S. Embassies or Fulbright Commissions and are selected based on leadership potential, professional achievements, and public service commitment.
Where do fellows study?
Fellows are placed at selected U.S. universities based on their professional field and area of expertise.
Conclusion
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program 2026–2027 offers an exceptional professional development opportunity for experienced Croatian professionals seeking to strengthen leadership skills, expand international networks, and deepen expertise in their fields. Through fully funded study, professional collaboration, and practical learning experiences in the United States, the fellowship empowers participants to create meaningful impact within their professions, institutions, and communities.
For more information, visit U.S. Embassy in Croatia.