Call for Applications: Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program (Bangladesh)

The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka invites applications from experienced Bangladeshi scholars for the 2026–2027 Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program. This program enables post-doctoral research or lecturing at U.S. institutions for six to nine months, focusing on Social Sciences, Humanities, Business, and STEM fields. Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent, demonstrate professional excellence, and secure a U.S. host institution invitation.

Overview of the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program

The Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program is a prestigious exchange initiative that provides Bangladeshi scholars the opportunity to conduct advanced research or teach at U.S. universities. Scholars gain exposure to diverse academic environments, contribute to institutional development, and advance their professional and academic careers.

Program Objectives

Facilitate post-doctoral research or lecturing at U.S. institutions.
Promote cross-cultural academic exchange and knowledge sharing.
Enhance institutional and curriculum development at U.S. universities.
Support Bangladeshi scholars in advancing research, policy, and STEM expertise.

Focus Areas

Eligible fields span multiple disciplines, including:

Social Sciences, Humanities, and American Studies
Economics, Public Policy, International Relations, Public Health
TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
STEM disciplines: Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology, Artificial Intelligence, Engineering, Materials Science, Mathematics

Who is Eligible?

Experienced Bangladeshi scholars, researchers, and senior faculty with at least 10 years of professional experience.
Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent professional training.
Demonstrated strong publication record and research or teaching excellence.
English proficiency sufficient for professional engagement in an American academic environment.
Applicants must secure a confirmed invitation from a U.S. host institution.
Commitment to return to Bangladesh after the program.

How It Works

Application Preparation: Compile project statement, bibliography or course syllabi, CV/resume, three letters of reference, invitation letter from the U.S. host, and home institution support letter.
Research vs. Lecturing Grants:
- Research grants focus on needs-based academic investigation.
- Lecturing grants require extensive teaching experience and host institution support.
Application Submission: Submit by December 20, 2025, 11:59 p.m. BST (Washington D.C. time).
Selection and Notification: Scholars are selected based on academic excellence, project feasibility, and potential institutional impact.
Program Duration: Six to nine months starting September 2026.

Why It Matters

Provides international exposure and professional development.
Strengthens collaboration between Bangladeshi and U.S. institutions.
Enhances research, teaching, and curriculum development capacities.
Supports the growth of advanced expertise in critical academic and STEM disciplines.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Failing to secure a U.S. host institution invitation prior to application.
Incomplete documentation or missing letters of reference.
Submitting proposals without clear objectives or alignment with program priorities.
Neglecting to demonstrate English proficiency or professional experience.

FAQ

1. Who can apply? Experienced Bangladeshi scholars, researchers, and senior faculty with a PhD or equivalent.
2. What is the program duration? Six to nine months starting September 2026.
3. Can I apply without a U.S. host invitation? No, a confirmed invitation is mandatory.
4. What fields are eligible? Social Sciences, Humanities, Business, Public Policy, TESOL, and STEM disciplines.
5. What documents are required? Project statement, CV/resume, bibliography or syllabus, invitation letter, three references, and home institution support letter.
6. Is there a requirement to return to Bangladesh? Yes, all scholars must commit to returning after the program.
7. When is the application deadline? December 20, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. BST.

Conclusion

The Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program 2026–2027 offers Bangladeshi scholars a prestigious platform for advanced research and teaching in the U.S., fostering cross-cultural academic exchange, professional growth, and institutional development. Participation provides scholars with international exposure, collaborative opportunities, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to both U.S. and Bangladeshi academic communities.