Are you ready to immerse yourself in one of the world’s most dynamic and diverse countries? The Fulbright-Nehru Student Research Fellowships offer an unparalleled opportunity to design and conduct your own research project in India, a land of vibrant cultures, rich histories, and groundbreaking innovation.
These fellowships are perfect for motivated scholars seeking to deepen their academic expertise, broaden their global perspectives, and engage meaningfully with Indian institutions, communities, and research environments.
Program Highlights
1. Design Your Own Research Project
Fulbright-Nehru Fellows create their own research proposals, allowing you to tailor a project that aligns with your academic and professional goals. Projects can range across disciplines—science, technology, arts, humanities, social sciences, and more.
2. Collaborate with Indian Institutions
Applicants must affiliate with an Indian institution or organization of higher education listed on the Ministry of Education's official website. These include institutions accredited by apex bodies like:
- All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE)
- University Grants Commission (UGC)
- Medical Council of India (MCI)
Your host institution will serve as a crucial academic partner, and you’ll benefit from mentorship by an academic supervisor at your affiliated institute.
3. Explore Beyond Major Cities
India’s academic and cultural wealth isn’t limited to major population centers. Consider designing projects in smaller towns or rural areas to experience the incredible diversity and richness of the Indian subcontinent.
Finding a Host Institution
We encourage applicants to identify and connect with a host institution that complements their proposed research. A letter of affiliation or documentation of correspondence with potential hosts should be included in your application.
The location of your host institution should align with your research site, and upon final selection, USIEF will confirm your affiliation and secure formal agreements with the institution.
Affiliations are available throughout India, except in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. In addition to a valid visa or project clearance (for OCI card holders), additional approval from the Indian government may be required for travel to restricted areas such as Arunachal Pradesh, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and parts of Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand. Students should consider these restrictions when finalizing their affiliations or research projects.
Why Choose India for Your Fulbright Research?
India is a country of contrasts and opportunities, where ancient traditions coexist with cutting-edge technology. Conducting research here allows you to:
- Dive into unique cultural contexts that challenge conventional perspectives.
- Collaborate with scholars and practitioners working on some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
- Enrich your academic journey through interactions with India’s warm, vibrant, and diverse communities.
Important Dates
- 2025-2026 Applications: Now closed.
- 2026-2027 Applications: Opening in Spring 2025.
Learn More
Visit Fulbright U.S. Student Program for full details on grant benefits, application procedures, and timelines.
Embark on an unforgettable journey and make India your research destination. A Fulbright-Nehru fellowship is more than just research—it’s an experience that will shape your academic and personal growth in extraordinary ways.