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Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships: The Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships are aimed at developing long-term capacity to address global challenges and foster innovative solutions in key priority areas across India and the U.S. These fellowships allow Indian Ph.D. scholars to conduct research, audit non-degree courses, and gain practical work experience at U.S. academic institutions. The fellowship duration is six to nine months.
What are the Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships?
The Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships provide Indian scholars registered for a Ph.D. at an Indian institution the opportunity to conduct pre-doctoral research in the U.S. Scholars can audit non-degree courses to expand their academic understanding and gain practical exposure relevant to their research. The fellowships aim to strengthen bilateral ties by fostering academic and cultural exchange between India and the U.S.
Eligibility Criteria for Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships
To be eligible for the Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships 2026-27, applicants must meet the following criteria:
| Eligibility Requirement | Details |
| Citizenship | Must be an Indian citizen. |
| Ph.D. Registration | Must be registered for a Ph.D. at an Indian institution on or before November 1, 2024. |
| Ph.D. Thesis Submission | Ph.D. thesis submission date must be at least three months after the fellowship ends. |
| Research Justification | Must provide clear justification for conducting research in the U.S. and identify resources. |
| Recommendation Letters | One letter must be from the Ph.D. supervisor detailing research and need for the fellowship. |
| Work Endorsement (If Employed) | Must submit the FNDR Employer’s Endorsement Form (if applicable). |
| Research Papers | Must upload a copy of a published/presented paper or extracts from the Master's/M.Phil. thesis (max 20 pages). |
| Government Employees | Employees of the Government of India and Indian State Governments are not eligible. |
Last Date to Apply Online for Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships
The last date to apply online for the Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships 2026-27 is July 15, 2025 (23:59:59 IST). Ensure all required documents are submitted before the deadline.
| Last Date to Apply Online | July 15, 2025 |
How to Apply for Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships 2026-27
Follow these steps to apply for the fellowship:
- Visit the official application portal: apply.iie.org/ffsp2026.
- Carefully review the FNDR Applicant Instructions before starting the application.
- Complete the online application form accurately.
- Upload the following documents:
- FNDR Applicant Annexure
- FNDR Employer’s Endorsement Form (if applicable)
- Published/presented paper or thesis extract (max 20 pages)
- Submit the completed application before the deadline.
Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships 2026-27: Apply Online Link
You can apply for the Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships 2026-27 through the official online portal. Click the link below to access the application and submit your details before the deadline.
| New Registration | |
| Fill the Application Form |
Fields of Study Eligible for the Fellowship
Applicants can apply in the following fields of study:
- Agricultural Sciences
- Anthropology
- Bioengineering
- Chemistry
- Computer Science (e.g., cybersecurity, AI, machine learning)
- Earth Sciences
- Economics
- Education Policy and Planning
- Energy Studies
- Environmental Science/Studies
- History
- Language/Literature/Linguistics
- Materials Science (environmental applications)
- Mathematical Sciences
- Neuroscience
- Performing Arts
- Physics
- Political Science (e.g., International Security)
- Psychology
- Public Health (e.g., pandemic preparedness)
- Public Policy
- Sociology
- Urban and Regional Planning (e.g., smart cities, waste management)
- Visual Arts
Benefits of the Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships
Selected candidates for the Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships will receive the following benefits:
- J-1 Visa Support: Assistance with securing the required visa.
- Air Travel: Round-trip economy class airfare.
- Stipend: Monthly stipend for living expenses.
- Health Coverage: Accident and Sickness Program as per U.S. Government guidelines.
- Allowances: Applicable allowances and modest affiliation fees.
Note: The fellowship does not provide support for dependents or family members.
Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships: Selection Process
The Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships selection process involves a rigorous evaluation of academic excellence, research proposal quality, and leadership potential. It includes application screening, interviews, and final approval by the US-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board (FFSB).
| Stage | Timeline |
| Application Deadline | July 15, 2025 |
| Application Review | September 2025 |
| Notification of Review Outcome | October 2025 |
| Interviews for Shortlisted | Late October 2025 |
| Nomination & TOEFL | End of October 2025 |
| FFSB Approval & Placement | March/April 2026 |
| Pre-Departure Orientation | May/June 2026 |
| Program Commencement | August/September 2026 |
Important Points to Remember for Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships
- Applicants can apply for only one Fulbright-Nehru fellowship per competition cycle.
- Plagiarism in the application will lead to disqualification.
- Incomplete applications or those received after the deadline will not be considered.
- Visa sponsorship extensions and transfers are not allowed.
Contact Information
For inquiries about the Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships, contact:
- Email: masters@usief.org.in
Stay informed and prepare thoroughly to maximize your chances of securing this prestigious fellowship.
Also Check Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships
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