Apply now for Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program (Bangladesh)

The Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program 2026–2027 by the U.S. Embassy Dhaka provides experienced Bangladeshi scholars, researchers, and professionals an opportunity to conduct postdoctoral research or teach at U.S. institutions for six to nine months. The program supports academic exchange, advanced research collaboration, faculty development, and strengthening of U.S.–Bangladesh educational partnerships.

Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program 2026–2027: Overview

The Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program is an international academic exchange opportunity that enables senior Bangladeshi scholars and professionals to undertake research or teaching assignments at universities and research institutions in the United States.

The program is offered by the U.S. Embassy Dhaka and is designed for experienced academics, researchers, and professionals who want to contribute to global knowledge exchange through research collaboration, curriculum development, and university teaching.

Selected scholars may participate for:

One academic semester
Up to a full academic year
Typically six to nine months, beginning in September 2027

Purpose of the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program

The program aims to:

Support advanced postdoctoral research and academic collaboration
Promote international knowledge exchange
Strengthen partnerships between Bangladeshi and U.S. institutions
Enhance faculty development and educational innovation
Encourage research that contributes to global challenges and U.S.–Bangladesh relations

Research and Academic Fields Supported

The Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program accepts applications across a wide range of disciplines, including:

American Studies

American History
American Literature
American Politics

Security Studies

Defense Policy
Military Strategy

Energy Studies

Energy and Natural Resources Management
Natural Resources Science
Energy and Natural Resources Policy

Sciences

Agricultural Sciences and Technology
Chemistry
Geology
Geochemistry
Physics
Pharmacy
Mathematics
Statistics

Technology

Artificial Intelligence
Computer Science
Data Science
Cybersecurity
Energy Systems
Information Systems
Materials Science
Technology Policy

Engineering

Architecture
Biological and Chemical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Geological and Geophysical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Mining Engineering
Natural Resources Engineering
Petroleum Engineering
Robotics

Business and Management

International Business
Supply Chain and Operations
Logistics Management
Finance

Social Sciences

International Relations
Public Administration
Public Policy
U.S. Foreign Policy

Economics

International Economics
Trade and Finance
Economic Policy
Natural Resources Economics

Education

Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL)

Types of Fulbright Visiting Scholar Grants

The program offers two main categories of grants:

1. Research Grants

Research grants allow scholars to conduct independent academic research at U.S. host institutions.

Research activities may include:

Conducting research projects related to the host institution
Carrying out academic consultations
Developing faculty training initiatives
Supporting curriculum development and evaluation
Preparing educational materials
Conducting academic needs assessments

2. Lecturing Grants

Lecturing grants support experienced academics who want to teach at U.S. universities.

Applicants must:

Have significant teaching experience
Secure an invitation from a U.S. host institution
Demonstrate expertise in their academic field

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Must be Bangladeshi citizens
Must be senior faculty members, researchers, or experienced professionals
Must hold a PhD or equivalent professional training and experience
Must have at least 10 years of professional experience
Must demonstrate strong English language proficiency
Must have an excellent publication or professional record
Must be able to work effectively in an American academic environment

Eligible applicants may come from:

Universities
Research institutions
Think tanks
Government organizations
Non-governmental organizations

Why This Fellowship Matters

The Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program provides opportunities for Bangladeshi scholars to:

Access advanced research environments in the United States
Build international academic networks
Collaborate with U.S. universities
Improve teaching and research capacity
Develop innovative academic programmes
Contribute to educational and professional development after returning to Bangladesh

The program also supports stronger academic and professional connections between Bangladesh and the United States.

Benefits of the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program

Selected scholars receive support for their academic exchange period, including:

Research or teaching placement at a U.S. institution
Academic collaboration opportunities
Professional networking opportunities
Access to university resources and research facilities
Support for international academic engagement

Application Requirements

Applicants must prepare the following documents:

Detailed research proposal or lecturing plan
Statement explaining proposed activities in the United States
Research bibliography (for research applicants)
Course syllabus (for lecturing applicants)
Invitation letter from a U.S. host institution
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
Three letters of recommendation
Letter of support from the applicant’s home institution

How to Apply

Applicants should follow these steps:

Step 1: Develop a Research or Teaching Proposal

Prepare a clear proposal explaining:

Research objectives
Academic importance
Expected outcomes
Connection with the host institution

Step 2: Identify a U.S. Host Institution

Research applicants should identify suitable U.S. universities or institutions for collaboration.

Lecturing applicants must obtain a confirmed invitation from a U.S. institution.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Collect all required supporting materials, including:

CV
References
Institutional support letter
Research or teaching documents

Step 4: Submit Application

Submit the complete application according to the instructions provided by the U.S. Embassy Dhaka.

Step 5: Selection Process

Applications are reviewed based on:

Academic achievements
Research quality
Professional experience
Potential impact
Contribution to U.S.–Bangladesh relations

Important Eligibility Conditions

Applicants must:

Not currently be subject to the 212(e) two-year home residency requirement
Commit to returning to Bangladesh after completing the program
Demonstrate plans to use their experience for academic or professional development in Bangladesh

Applicants who show commitment to strengthening U.S.–Bangladesh relations may receive preference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

Submitting unclear or broad research proposals
Applying without a strong U.S. institutional connection
Providing incomplete documentation
Ignoring English language requirements
Failing to explain the impact of their proposed work
Not demonstrating plans for applying gained knowledge after returning to Bangladesh

Tips for a Strong Application

To improve application quality:

Develop a focused and realistic research plan
Highlight previous academic achievements and publications
Clearly explain the importance of the proposed research
Choose a suitable U.S. host institution
Demonstrate long-term benefits for Bangladesh
Obtain strong recommendation letters

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program 2026–2027?

The Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program is an academic exchange program that allows experienced Bangladeshi scholars and professionals to conduct research or teach at U.S. institutions.

2. How long is the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program?

The fellowship generally lasts between six and nine months, covering one academic semester to a full academic year.

3. Who can apply for this fellowship?

Senior Bangladeshi faculty members, researchers, and professionals with a PhD or equivalent experience and at least 10 years of professional experience can apply.

4. Can applicants from non-university organizations apply?

Yes. Researchers and professionals from think tanks, government organizations, and NGOs may apply if they meet the eligibility requirements.

5. Is a U.S. host institution invitation required?

Yes. Applicants must provide a letter of invitation from a U.S. institution. Lecturing applicants must have a confirmed teaching invitation.

6. What fields are supported by the program?

The program supports many disciplines, including science, technology, engineering, business, economics, social sciences, American studies, security studies, and TESOL.

7. Must selected scholars return to Bangladesh after completing the fellowship?

Yes. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to returning to Bangladesh after completing their research or teaching assignment.

Conclusion

The Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program 2026–2027 provides a valuable opportunity for experienced Bangladeshi scholars and professionals to advance research, teaching, and international academic collaboration in the United States. Through this fellowship, participants can strengthen their expertise, build global networks, and contribute to academic and professional development in Bangladesh after returning home.