The 2027 Fulbright U.S.-ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program is one of the most influential academic fellowships offered by the United States Government to strengthen regional collaboration, promote policy-driven research, and support intellectual engagement among scholars from ASEAN member states. First launched in 2012, this program has supported more than 150 researchers, policymakers, and professionals who contributed to crucial themes such as public health, maritime security, technology integration, economic development, education, and regional cooperation. The 2027 cycle continues this mission by offering scholars the opportunity to conduct 3–4 months of fully funded research in the United States, supported by generous financial benefits, institutional access, and global networking opportunities. This award empowers mid-career experts, academics, and policymakers to advance research that aligns with U.S.–ASEAN priorities and promotes knowledge exchange across the region.

About the Fulbright Program

The Fulbright Program, established in 1946, is the U.S. Government’s flagship international academic exchange initiative. Operating in more than 160 countries, Fulbright fellowships are known for their emphasis on cultural diplomacy, academic excellence, and global problem-solving.

For the U.S.-ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program, placements are arranged across top American universities, research institutes, and policy think tanks. While institutions vary based on applicants’ research interests, typical hosts include globally recognized centers of excellence such as:

• Harvard University
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• Stanford University
• Johns Hopkins University
• University of California System
• Columbia University
• Carnegie Mellon University
• Georgetown University

These institutions consistently rank among the Top 100 globally in QS and Times Higher Education (THE) rankings, offering strong research infrastructure, access to data and policy networks, and faculty mentorship.

Overview of Fulbright US-ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program 2027

Overview Table

Category	Details
Scholarship Name	Fulbright U.S.-ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program 2027
Funded By	United States Government
Eligible Countries	ASEAN Member States + Timor-Leste
Program Type	Short-term Research Fellowship
Duration	3–4 months in the U.S. (Jan–June 2027)
Eligible Applicants	University faculty, government officials, researchers, policy experts
Benefits	Fully funded travel, stipend, settling-in allowance, research support
Application Deadline	January 23, 2026

Scholarship Benefits

Selected scholars receive comprehensive financial support, ensuring they can focus fully on their research and academic collaboration. Benefits include:

• A round-trip direct-flight economy-class ticket on an American carrier
• US$600 transit and baggage allowance
• A monthly stipend between US$3,164 and US$4,805, depending on the U.S. city
• A one-time US$2,233 settling-in allowance for accommodation and start-up expenses
• Possible research or lab fee coverage based on the requirements of the proposed project
• Access to U.S. universities, think tanks, policy institutions, and regional networks
• Participation in a Washington, D.C. group seminar near the end of the program
• Support for professional exchange, conferences, and academic collaboration
• Cultural exchange opportunities with peers from across the ASEAN region

Note: The award does not provide dependent support.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the 2027 cycle, applicants must:

• Be citizens or permanent residents of an ASEAN member state or Timor-Leste
• Reside in an ASEAN country throughout the entire nomination and selection process
• Commit to returning to their home country after completing the U.S. stay
• Be a university faculty member, researcher, professional expert, or government official working on U.S.–ASEAN related issues
• Demonstrate a strong record of scholarly or professional achievements
• Not have significant recent experience in the United States
• Be able to complete the required Fulbright Medical Examination before travel

Applicants are disqualified if they:

• Are currently teaching, studying, or conducting research in the U.S.
• Have received a Fulbright grant within the past five years
• Have held a J-1 (Professor/Research Scholar) visa in the last two years

Qualifying Research Fields

Applicants may propose research related to broad ASEAN initiatives and U.S. priorities, including:

• Economic and financial market integration
• Maritime cooperation
• AI safety, machine learning, and technology governance
• Education and curriculum policy
• Public administration and governance
• Public health and pandemic recovery
• Media, journalism, and communication
• Trade, investment, and regional development
• Information science and digital transformation
• Food technology and sustainability
• Law and international relations

Application Process (Step-by-Step)

1. Phase 1 – Initial Application (Deadline: Jan 23, 2026)

• Select and refine your research topic aligned with U.S.–ASEAN priorities
• Identify possible U.S. host institutions and request informal letters of invitation
• Access the online application portal (link above)
• Prepare a 3–5 page project statement outlining goals, methodology, and expected outcomes
• Submit your CV (up to 6 pages), bibliography, passport scan, and academic references
• Ensure your application clearly indicates that you are applying to the U.S.-ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program

2. Phase 2 – Shortlisting & Document Submission

• Shortlisted candidates will be notified between Feb 9–13, 2026
• Submit additional documents if required, including updated certifications
• Host institutions begin verifying applicant information

3. Phase 3 – Interviews & Final Selection

• Interviews will be conducted February 2026
• Final selections made between April–May 2026
• Selected scholars will travel to the U.S. in the first half of 2027

Comparison with Similar Research Fellowships

Feature	Fulbright U.S.-ASEAN visiting scholar program	Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship	Erasmus+ Visiting Scholar Program
Region Focus	ASEAN	Global	Europe-focused
Duration	3–4 months	10 months	Variable
Funding Level	Fully funded with high stipend	Fully funded	Fully/partially funded
Eligible Applicants	Mid-career professionals & academics	Mid-career professionals	Academics
Host Country	United States	United States	European Union
Research Component	Strong research focus	Academic + leadership	Research/teaching
Requirement	U.S.–ASEAN related topic	Professional development	Host invitation

FAQs About Fulbright US-ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program 2027

1. Who can apply for the Fulbright U.S.-ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program? University faculty, policymakers, researchers, and professionals working on U.S.–ASEAN related issues.
2. Does the program fund dependents? No. Dependent support is not provided under this award.
3. How long is the research stay in the U.S.? Between three and four months, depending on the project.
4. Can I apply without a letter of invitation? Yes, but having one strengthens your application.
5. Do I need English proficiency certificates? No official English test is mandated unless requested during host institution review.
6. What expenses are covered in ASEAN visiting scholar program? Housing, daily living expenses, meals, transportation, and professional activities.
7. Can government employees apply for Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program 2027? Yes, if their work relates to U.S.–ASEAN priorities.
8. Are recent U.S. visitors eligible? Applicants with significant recent U.S. experience may receive lower priority.
9. What are winning applicants usually strong in? Publications, policy work, impactful research, and strong academic/professional records.
10. When will selected scholars travel to the United States? In the first half of 2027, typically between January and March.

If you aim to build regional expertise, expand your research network, and contribute to policy-relevant knowledge within ASEAN, this program is a valuable opportunity. Eligible scholars are encouraged to prepare early, refine their project proposal, and apply before the deadline. APPLY NOW. Read the full info on the official website.

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