Fulbright Program

About the Fulbright Program

The Fulbright Program is the flagship international exchange scheme of the United States government. It sends students, scholars and professionals abroad and brings others to the US. Senator J. William Fulbright started it after the Second World War. In South Africa, the US Embassy in Pretoria runs the Foreign Student Program, and it has supported exchange between the two countries for many years.

The programme is built around two ideas. First, it rewards academic excellence. Second, it aims to build mutual understanding between people from different countries. Fulbright grantees are expected to take part in cultural exchange as well as study.

How Fulbright supports students

For South Africans, the Foreign Student Program funds postgraduate study in the United States. There are three paths. The first is a Master's degree, which is a two-year award. The second is a PhD, also a two-year award. The third is a Visiting Student Researcher placement, which lasts one year and suits students already enrolled in a PhD at a South African university.

The award is designed to cover the main costs of study. Published guidance also lists support with visa processing, health insurance, orientation before you leave and a session on return. The exact funding terms are set each year, so read the current guidelines. Fields of study are broad, but the selectors look for clear study objectives that fit what US universities can offer.

A strong application takes planning. Think about which US universities offer the courses or research you need, and explain how your study will help South Africa. Ask your referees early. Strong candidates also show how they will share what they learn once they come home.

What to know before applying

Applicants must be South African citizens, or permanent residents with at least five years of residency. Dual US citizens and people living in the US are not eligible. For a Master's, you need a four-year bachelor's degree, a BTech, or a three-year degree with Honours. For a PhD, you need a Master's degree.

Selectors weigh academic excellence, leadership potential and commitment to cultural exchange. Shortlisted candidates must supply GRE and TOEFL scores, and test vouchers have been provided. The application is online and goes through the Institute of International Education, which handles the process for the Embassy.

Recent rounds closed in the first half of the year. For example, the round for 2027 to 2028 closed in April 2026. However, dates change each cycle. Exchange visas often carry conditions on returning home after your studies, so read the terms. Check the US Embassy page for the current deadline and full requirements.