Apply Now: Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program (Vietnam)

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program (2027–2028) is a U.S.-funded non-degree academic exchange program for mid-career Vietnamese professionals with leadership potential. It provides approximately 10 months of graduate-level study, leadership development, and professional experience in the United States, including a 6-week professional affiliation with U.S. organizations.

What Is the Humphrey Fellowship Program?

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is a prestigious international exchange initiative that brings mid-career professionals to the United States for one academic year.

It is designed to strengthen leadership skills, promote knowledge exchange, and build long-term professional networks between the United States and partner countries like Vietnam.

Fellows do not earn a degree but engage in advanced academic study, leadership training, and hands-on professional collaboration.

Program Duration and Structure

Total duration: Approximately 10 months
Type: Non-degree graduate-level study
Location: Participating U.S. universities

Program Components

Fellows participate in:

Academic coursework at host universities
Leadership and professional development training
Networking with U.S. professionals and institutions
A minimum 6-week professional affiliation with:
- Government agencies
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Private sector organizations
- International institutions

Eligible Fields of Study

The program focuses on key policy and development areas:

Communication and Journalism

Investigative journalism
Digital and national broadcasting
Strategic communications and public relations
Media transparency and information integrity
Freedom of expression

Law and Governance

Public policy and administration
Rule of law and governance
Human rights and civil society
Anti-corruption and law enforcement
Transnational crime prevention

Natural Resources Policy

Agriculture and food security
Energy systems and sustainability
Water and environmental management
Resource security and supply chains
Climate and environmental policy

Public and Economic Policy

Economic policy and finance
Public administration and governance
Trade and investment development
Workforce and education policy
Public-private partnerships
Institutional strengthening

Public Health Policy and Management

Health systems strengthening
Disease surveillance and prevention
Public health administration
Global health security
Clinical and health education systems

Technology Policy and Management

Cybersecurity and digital governance
Artificial intelligence policy
Telecommunications and digital infrastructure
Biotechnology and health innovation
Smart city and technology workforce development

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

Must be a Vietnamese citizen
Must hold at least a bachelor’s degree
Minimum 5 years of full-time professional experience beyond undergraduate degree (before August 2026)
Must have management or policy responsibilities
Limited or no prior experience in the United States
Demonstrated leadership ability and public service record
Strong English proficiency

English Language Requirement

Minimum equivalent scores:

TOEFL: 72
IELTS: 6.0
Duolingo: 100

English test score is not required at initial application stage. Selected finalists must provide scores by September 15, 2026. TOEFL test vouchers may be provided to selected candidates.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a complete application package including:

Fully completed application form with English essay responses
Two letters of reference in English
- At least one must be from current employer
Official academic transcripts (in English)
- Must include courses and grades for undergraduate degree
Diplomas for higher degrees (master’s or doctoral)
Proof of degree completion if not shown in transcripts

Why This Fellowship Matters

The Humphrey Fellowship Program strengthens global leadership by:

Developing mid-career professionals into policy leaders
Enhancing international cooperation and knowledge exchange
Building expertise in governance, health, technology, and sustainability
Strengthening public institutions and civil society
Creating long-term professional networks between countries

How to Apply

Applicants should:

Confirm eligibility (citizenship, experience, education)
Select relevant field of study aligned with professional background
Prepare leadership-focused essays in English
Request two professional reference letters
Collect official academic transcripts and diplomas
Submit the complete application before the deadline

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applying without sufficient professional experience
Submitting incomplete or unofficial academic documents
Weak or unclear leadership examples in essays
Missing employer reference letter
Not demonstrating public service or policy relevance
Poor English preparation despite minimum requirement awareness

Tips for a Strong Application

Clearly demonstrate leadership impact in your career
Align your field choice with real policy or development work
Highlight public service contributions
Provide strong, specific professional references
Write clear, structured, and persuasive English essays
Show how you will apply U.S. training in Vietnam after return

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Humphrey Fellowship Program?

It is a U.S. government-funded leadership exchange program for mid-career professionals focused on non-degree graduate study and professional development.

How long is the fellowship?

Approximately 10 months, including academic study and a 6-week professional placement.

Is this a degree program?

No, it is a non-degree fellowship.

Who can apply?

Mid-career Vietnamese professionals with a bachelor’s degree, 5+ years of experience, leadership roles, and strong English skills.

Do I need an English test at the time of application?

No, but selected finalists must submit official scores later.

What fields are supported?

Fields include journalism, governance, public policy, health, environment, and technology policy.

Conclusion

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program offers Vietnamese mid-career professionals a unique opportunity to strengthen leadership skills through academic study, policy exposure, and hands-on professional experience in the United States. It builds long-term capacity in governance, public service, and innovation by connecting global professionals with U.S. institutions and practices.