RFAs: Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program (US)

The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs administers the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program to bring mid-career professionals from priority countries to the United States for leadership development, academic study, and professional experience. The program is part of the broader Fulbright Program and focuses on strengthening international cooperation, policy exchange, and long-term institutional partnerships.

Purpose and Strategic Goals

The program develops global leadership capacity and strengthens cooperation between the United States and participating countries. It supports shared priorities such as governance improvement, economic development, policy collaboration, institutional strengthening, and international stability. It also promotes professional networking, cross-border knowledge exchange, and long-term diplomatic relationships.

Program Structure

Humphrey Fellowship (Long-Term Program)

The long-term fellowship lasts up to one academic year and is a non-degree academic experience in the United States. Fellows are placed at selected U.S. universities and participate in multinational thematic cohorts. They complete graduate-level coursework and engage in at least six weeks of professional affiliation with organizations such as government agencies, NGOs, private companies, or international institutions. The program combines academic learning with applied professional experience.

Distinguished Humphrey Fellowship (Short-Term Program)

The Distinguished Fellowship is a shorter, intensive version of the program. It places participants in thematic cohorts at selected U.S. institutions for a brief period and includes approximately one week of professional exposure with U.S.-based organizations. It focuses on leadership engagement, policy learning, and professional networking.

Fields of Study and Focus Areas

The program includes professionals working in policy-relevant and development-focused fields. These include public policy, governance, economic development, education, environment, human rights, public health, media and communication, and international cooperation. Selection is based on leadership potential and alignment with these thematic priorities.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible participants are mid-career professionals with strong leadership experience. They are typically nominated from countries designated as program participants. Applicants usually work in government, NGOs, private sector organizations, or academic institutions. Implementing institutions eligible for program funding include public universities, private universities, nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status (excluding higher education institutions), and other approved U.S.-based organizations.

Funding Information

The program operates under a cooperative agreement with total funding of $10,250,000. This funding supports academic study, professional placements, cohort activities, institutional partnerships, and program administration.

How the Program Works

• Candidates are nominated through U.S. embassies or official selection channels in participating countries
• Selected Fellows are placed at U.S. host institutions for academic and leadership training
• Fellows participate in non-degree graduate-level study and cohort-based learning
• Each Fellow completes at least six weeks of professional affiliation in U.S. organizations
• After completion, Fellows return to their home countries to apply their skills in leadership and policy roles
• Alumni continue engaging with U.S. institutions and contribute to long-term international cooperation

Why the Program Matters

• Strengthens global leadership pipelines in key policy areas
• Builds long-term partnerships between the United States and participating countries
• Supports shared solutions to global challenges such as governance, development, and security
• Enhances diplomatic relationships through professional and academic exchange
• Produces alumni who often become senior leaders and policy influencers in their countries

Key Benefits

• Advanced leadership training in U.S. institutions
• Exposure to U.S. policy, governance, and organizational systems
• Professional networking with global experts and institutions
• Practical experience through U.S.-based professional affiliations
• Long-term career and policy development opportunities

FAQ

• What is the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program?
  • It is a Fulbright exchange program that brings mid-career professionals to the United States for leadership development, academic study, and professional experience.
  • It is administered by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
• Is it a degree program?
  • No, it is a non-degree fellowship program.
  • It focuses on professional development, leadership training, and policy exposure rather than earning an academic degree.
• How long does the program last?
  • The main fellowship lasts up to one academic year.
  • The Distinguished Fellowship is a shorter, intensive program with a brief stay and professional exposure.
• Who can apply for the program?
  • Mid-career professionals with leadership experience from eligible countries.
  • Applicants typically come from government, NGOs, private sector, or academic institutions.
• What kind of professional experience is included?
  • Fellows complete at least six weeks of professional affiliation.
  • Placements may include government agencies, NGOs, private sector companies, or international organizations.
• How are participants selected?
  • Candidates are nominated through U.S. embassies or official program channels in participating countries.
  • Selection is based on leadership potential and professional relevance to program themes.
• What happens after the fellowship?
  • Fellows return to their home countries to apply their training in leadership and policy roles.
  • Many alumni continue collaborating with U.S. institutions and contribute to international cooperation.

Conclusion

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is a global leadership development initiative that combines academic study, professional experience, and international networking in the United States. By connecting mid-career professionals with U.S. institutions, it strengthens long-term cooperation, supports policy development, and builds leaders who contribute to global stability and shared international progress.