The Fulbright Foreign Student Program invites South African graduates and postgraduate students to apply for the 2027–2028 academic cycle. This prestigious programme provides fully funded opportunities to pursue postgraduate study or research at accredited universities in the United States (U.S.).
The programme excludes MBA and medical/veterinary studies that require clinical contact with patients.
What Is the Fulbright Foreign Student Program?
The South African Fulbright Foreign Student Program supports talented graduates through a rigorous selection and interview process, offering comprehensive support that includes:
- Tuition and academic placement support
- Visa processing assistance
- Health insurance
- Pre-departure orientation
- Ongoing academic and pastoral support in the U.S.
- Re-entry and alumni engagement upon return to South Africa
The programme aims to develop future leaders who will contribute to South Africa’s development after completing their studies.
Study Opportunities Available (2027–2028)
1. Visiting Student Researcher (Non-Degree)
- Open to South African PhD students currently registered at a South African university
- Spend one year conducting research at a U.S. university
- NRF-funded PhD students are strongly encouraged to apply
2. Master’s or PhD Degree Studies
- Scholarships available for Master’s or Doctoral (PhD) degrees
- Funding is awarded for one degree only (Master’s or PhD)
- Scholarship duration: up to two years
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen, or a permanent resident with at least 5 years of residency
- Not be resident in the U.S. or hold dual U.S. citizenship
- Meet the academic requirements:
- Visiting Student Researcher: Registered for a PhD at a South African university for the full duration of the award
- Master’s applicants:
- 4-year Bachelor’s degree, or
- BTech degree, or
- 3-year Bachelor’s degree plus Honours
- PhD applicants: Must hold a Master’s degree
What the Selection Panel Looks For
Successful Fulbright applicants typically demonstrate:
- Strong academic excellence
- Clear leadership potential
- Well-defined and realistic study or research objectives
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Cultural sensitivity and interest in U.S.–South Africa exchange
- Participation in community, leadership, or extracurricular activities
- A commitment to giving back to South Africa after completion
Standardised Tests
- GRE and TOEFL scores are required only for semi-finalists
- Selected candidates will receive test vouchers for these exams
Applicants must also show that they have carefully researched U.S. universities and can clearly justify why their chosen institutions align with their academic and professional goals.
How to Apply
👉 Click here to apply for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program 2027–2028
https://apply.iie.org/ffsp2027
Application Closing Date:
🗓 8 April 2026 (midnight, SAST)
Late applications will not be considered.
Important Notice for Applicants
Prospective Fulbright participants should be aware that:
- Public health conditions
- Availability of U.S. consular services and travel
- U.S. university operating policies
may affect travel and participation in academic programmes.
Why Apply for Fulbright?
The Fulbright Program is one of the most respected international scholarship programmes in the world, offering not just funding, but lifelong academic, professional, and cultural networks.
If you are academically strong, globally minded, and committed to contributing to South Africa’s future, this opportunity could be career-changing.