Fulbright Scholarships (for graduate study only)
2027-2028 Scholarship Programs
Eligibility requirements:
- Be a national of Trinidad and Tobago;- Be a holder of a Trinidad and Tobago Passport.
- Not be a Permanent Resident of the United States or a holder of a U.S. “Green Card” (U.S. alien registration card; No dual citizens of the U.S. and TT)
- Graduated from a local tertiary-level institution with a high passing grade (e.g., upper second-class hons. or first-class hons. Bachelor’s degree).
- Applicants must not have spent a considerable time living or studying in the U.S. within the past 3-5 years. The objective of the Fulbright program is to provide an educational exchange experience to those not previously afforded such an opportunity, preference will be given to candidates who have not had extensive recent experience in the United States or any other foreign country.
- Applicants should clearly indicate career goals in the application and exceptional promise of contributing to national development.
- Candidate MUST return to Trinidad and Tobago upon completion of their studies for at least two years, as required under the J-1 visa awarded to recipients of Fulbright Scholarships.
- Candidates can apply for a Masters or PhD in any field of study; but must not require student to fulfill clinical practicum on clients or patients.
Scholarship Coverage:
• Airline travel to and from the United States (NB: this only covers the initial flight at the beginning of the program and for the return flight to Trinidad and Tobago at the end of the program)
• Tuition assistance in the form of a scholarship as placed by the administering partner Institute for International Education (IIE)
• A monthly stipend
• A monthly book allowance
• Health insurance basic coverage
• J1 visa
Please Note: Successful applicants will be contacted via email by September 1. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
Fulbright Scholarship Offerings for 2027-2028:
Fulbright Foreign Student Program Applications are CLOSED
FULBRIGHT FOREIGN STUDENT PROGRAM
This program provides grants for nationals of Trinidad and Tobago to earn a Master’s degree or Ph.D. from a university in the United States of America. Applicants must have earned a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree through an accredited institution in Trinidad and Tobago. The grant is sponsored by the U.S. Government and administered by The Institute of International Education (IIE).
Priority Fields of Study: While applications in all academic disciplines will be considered, preference may be given to candidates pursuing graduate study in areas aligned with bi-lateral development priorities, including:
• Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Data Science
• Computer Science, Information Systems, and Cybersecurity
• Geospatial Information Systems (GIS), Geospatial Science, and Bathymetry
• Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship
• Bioinformatics
• International Relations and National Security Studies
• Public Administration, Public Policy, and Economic Planning
• Administration of Justice and Legal Studies
• Public Health and Health Administration
• Nursing Education (non-clinical programs)
Application Process:
- Qualified candidates must submit their online applications no later than June 13, 2026 by 11:59 E.T. When completing the application form, applicants must select the 2027/2028 cycle.
- Three (3) letters of recommendation are required. At least one letter should be from an academic who can attest to your academic potential. Letters of recommendation must be submitted directly by your recommenders via the online application.
- Once notified as a finalist, you are required to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), dependent on the field of study, before September 1, 2026.
- Copies of diplomas, university degrees and transcripts must be submitted with your online application. If not currently available at the time of application, please justify.
- Once notified of finalist status, sealed official transcripts should emailed by your university to our Fulbright Office at: POS-exchange@state.gov
Attention: Ms. Kervelle Durant-Julien
Public Engagement Specialist, Public Affairs Section
U.S. Embassy, Trinidad and Tobago
NB: To ensure all application requirements are met, please review the following documents:
Fulbright Application Instructions 2027/2028
Fulbright Application Checklist 2027/2028
Fulbright Essay Guidelines 2027/2028
Fulbright Plagiarism Guidelines 2027/2028
PLEASE NOTE: The application link is the same for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program (FSP), and the Fulbright Faculty Development Program (FDP).
Applicants must apply for ONE of the scholarship programs. You CANNOT apply for both programs.
Successful applicants will be contacted via email by September 1. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
Fulbright Faculty Development Program. Applications are CLOSED
FULBRIGHT FACULTY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
The Fulbright Faculty Development Program supports graduate study in the United States for professionals who are dedicated to college or university teaching. The grant competition is open to educators who are nominated by institutions of higher education in Trinidad and Tobago and who have outstanding academic and professional qualifications.
Fulbright grantees receive a monthly maintenance stipend (which varies according to the cost of living in different locations in the U.S.), a book allowance, health insurance, and round-trip airfare to the U.S. Funds are also available to cover expenses related to graduate study such as thesis preparation. The admitting university covers tuition. Grantees receive up to two years of funding for master’s level or doctoral-level studies. Candidates for doctoral-level study must already possess a master’s degree. The grant does not provide funding for grantees’ family members. Expenses for dependents are the grantee’s responsibility.
Priority Fields of Study: While applications in all academic disciplines will be considered, preference may be given to candidates pursuing graduate study in areas aligned with bi-lateral development priorities, including:
• Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Data Science
• Computer Science, Information Systems, and Cybersecurity
• Geospatial Information Systems (GIS), Geospatial Science, and Bathymetry
• Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship
• Bioinformatics
• International Relations and National Security Studies
• Public Administration, Public Policy, and Economic Planning
• Administration of Justice and Legal Studies
• Public Health and Health Administration
• Nursing Education (non-clinical programs)
Application Process:
- Qualified candidates must submit their online applications no later than June 13, 2026 by 11:59 E.T. When completing the application form, applicants must select the 2027/2028 cycle.
- Three (3) letters of recommendation are required. At least one letter should be from an academic who can attest to your academic potential. Letters of recommendation must be submitted directly by your recommenders via the online application.
- Once notified as a finalist, you are required to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), dependent on the field of study, before September 1, 2026.
- Copies of diplomas, university degrees and transcripts must be submitted with your online application. If not currently available at the time of application, please justify.
- Once notified of finalist status, sealed official transcripts should emailed by your university to our Fulbright Office at: POS-exchange@state.gov
Attention: Kervelle Durant-Julien
Public Engagement Specialist, Public Affairs Section
U.S. Embassy, Trinidad and Tobago
NB: To ensure all application requirements are met, please review the following documents:
Fulbright Application Instructions 2027/2028
Fulbright Application Checklist 2027/2028
Fulbright Essay Guidelines 2027/2028
Fulbright Plagiarism Guidelines 2027/2028
PLEASE NOTE: The application link is the same for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program (FSP), and the Fulbright Faculty Development Program (FDP).
Applicants must apply for ONE of the scholarship programs. You CANNOT apply for both programs.
Successful applicants will be contacted via email by September 1. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
Fulbright Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship — The 2026-2027 application is CLOSED
The 2026-2027 Humphrey Fellowship Program Application is CLOSED.
Embassy Website: https://tt.usembassy.gov
Program Website: https://www.humphreyfellowship.org
Application Link: https://apply.iie.org/huberthhumphrey
Deadline: August 8, 2025
Audience:
Mid-career professionals in leadership roles with an interest in policy development and a commitment to public service and national development.
Program Description
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program, a Fulbright exchange initiative established in 1978, aims to advance U.S. foreign policy goals by fostering the exchange of mid-career professionals from over 100 eligible countries worldwide. Humphrey Fellows work in critical fields, building lasting partnerships with the U.S. to strengthen bilateral relationships and promote mutual prosperity.
During the fellowship, participants engage in:
- Non-degree study at one of approximately 11 host campuses across the United States.
- Professional affiliation (minimum six weeks) at U.S.-based governmental, non-governmental, private sector, or international organizations.
Through these experiences, Fellows:
- Gain knowledge about U.S. society and culture.
- Deepen their professional expertise in fields of strategic importance to the U.S.
- Expand their networks to include U.S. counterparts.
Impact:
A recent evaluation revealed that:
- Over 60% of alumni hold foreign government positions.
- More than 45% have introduced policy changes in their home countries.
Program History
The program was founded in 1978 to honor Senator and Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey. President Jimmy Carter announced its establishment in Venezuela, emphasizing values of democracy, social justice, and support for developing nations. The first cohort of 27 Fellows from 24 countries arrived in the U.S. in 1979, hosted by 11 universities.
Program Components
- Professional Affiliation:
Fellows collaborate with U.S.-based organizations, sharing best practices and knowledge. - Academic Enrichment:
Fellows learn from renowned faculty at host universities without degree requirements. - Humphrey Seminar:
A required course where Fellows develop individual program goals, focusing on U.S. society, professional networking, and leadership development. - Global Leadership Forum:
Activities enhance leadership and professional skills, foster cross-sector collaboration, and leverage resources in Washington, D.C.
Application Process
How to Apply:
- Submit online applications until August 8, 2025.
Timeline:
- Awards announced: February 2026.
- Fellowship begins: August 2026.
Application Requirements:
- Complete application with essay responses in English.
- Two letters of reference (one from the current employer).
- Official transcripts in English for undergraduate degrees and diplomas for higher education degrees.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligible Candidates:
- Hold a first university degree (equivalent to a 4-year bachelor’s degree).
- Have at least five years of full-time professional experience beyond their undergraduate degree (by August 2025).
- Demonstrate management or policy responsibilities.
Ineligible Candidates:
- Recent university graduates.
- University teachers/researchers without management responsibilities (except in Substance Abuse Education and Policy).
- Individuals with dual U.S. citizenship or U.S. permanent resident status.
- Local employees of U.S. Missions abroad or their family members.
Scholarship Benefits
The fellowship covers:
- International travel.
- Tuition and university fees.
- Accident/sickness coverage.
- Monthly maintenance allowance.
- Funding for books and professional activities.
Note: Financial support for dependents is not provided.
Eligible Fields/Sectors
Human and Institutional Capacity:
- Economic Policy and Finance
- Public Policy Analysis and Public Administration
- Technology Policy and Management
Rights and Freedoms:
- Communications and Journalism
- Law and Human Rights
Sustainable Lands:
- Agriculture and Rural Development
- Natural Resources and Environmental Policy
- Urban and Regional Planning
Thriving Communities:
- Public Health Policy and Management
- Educational Administration, Planning, and Policy
- Substance Abuse Education and Policy (Note: ECA collaborates with the National Institute on Drug Abuse, which co-funds work with Humphrey Fellows in this field. Candidates must have a research background or the ability to apply current research findings. They should be ranked alongside other program fields and complete the supplementary application page specific to this topic.)
FAQ
- What is the Humphrey Fellowship Program?
The fellowship is a non-degree program. Fellows audit university classes, unlike Fulbright Scholars who enroll as full-time graduate students. - Is a bachelor’s degree required?
Yes, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree and demonstrate academic readiness for graduate-level study. - Can Fellows choose their host university?
No, Fellows are assigned to host institutions based on their professional field and area of interest. - Do Fellows receive guidance during the program?
Yes, each campus designates coordinators and faculty advisors to support Fellows academically and professionally.
Fulbright Specialist Program
The Fulbright Specialist Program (FSP), part of the larger Fulbright Program, was established in 2001 by the U.S. Department, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). The program is a field-driven initiative in which foreign host institutions conceptualize and design projects of interest within an eligible discipline that represent a priority for their respective organizations. These projects are then paired with a highly qualified U.S. academic or professional, who shares their expertise and assists with strengthening linkages between U.S. and foreign host institutions. Participating foreign host institutions benefit by:
- Gaining global perspectives from experienced U.S. academics and professionals;
- Executing projects that require a rapid response or flexible timeline through short-term, year-round exchanges; and
- Building sustained relationships with individuals and institutions in the U.S.
Eligibility Requirements for Host Institutions
Institutions that may be eligible to request a Fulbright Specialist include, but are not limited to:
- Institutions of Higher Education;
- Government Institutions (ministries or agencies, courts, parliamentary or congressional bodies);
- Cultural institutions (conservatories, museums, etc.)
- Non-Governmental Organizations including issue-centered institutions and think tanks; and
- Medical Institutions (public health organizations, teaching hospitals, etc.
Eligible Disciplines
Projects designed by prospective host institutions should focus on one of the below eligible disciplines:
- Agriculture
- American Studies
- Anthropology
- Archaeology
- Biology Education
- Business Administration
- Chemistry Education
- Communications and Journalism
- Computer Science and Information Technology
- Economics
- Education
- Engineering Education
- Environmental Science
- Law
- Library Science
- Math Education
- Peace and Conflict Resolution Studies
- Physics Education
- Political Science
- Public Administration
- Public/Global Health
- Social Work
- Sociology
- Urban Planning
Fulbright Specialist Program Activities
The Fulbright Specialist Program encourages host institutions to tailor projects to their own needs. However, all projects should have an education or training focus. Due to short-term nature of the exchange, projects should have concrete objectives that can be achieved over the course of the Specialist’s visit. Past Specialists have supported host institutions by conducting activities such as:
- Delivering a seminar or workshop
- Consulting on faculty or workforce development
- Developing academic or training curricula and materials
- Lecturing at the graduate or undergraduate level
- Conducting needs assessments or evaluation for a program or institution
Note: Personal or research projects, including clinical medical research or projects involving patient contact, are not eligible for funding under the Fulbright Specialist Program.
Program Parameters
- All exchanges must range from 14 to 42 days in length including weekends, holiday and travel days.
- Projects are restricted to one country, and all project activities must take place in the country requesting the project.
- Each project is limited to only one Fulbright Specialist grantee.
U.S. Exchange Alumni Association of Trinidad and Tobago
Current Board Members
- Dr. Charisse Griffith-Charles, Lecturer, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus (President)
- Dr. Charlene M.L. Roach, Lecturer, The University of the West Indies, St Augustine Campus (Vice President)
- Rahanna Juman, Director (Ag.), Institute of Marine Affairs, Hilltop Lane, Chaguaramas (Secretary)
- Dr. Andrew Hunte, Lecturer, The University of Trinidad and Tobago (Public Relations Officer)
- Kervelle Durant-Julien, Cultural Affairs Specialist & Alumni Coordinator, U.S. Embassy (Liaison Officer)
The Fulbright Alumni Association of Trinidad and Tobago was inaugurated on Friday, August 2, 1996. Membership size: Approximately 270
Objectives
- Foster interaction among Fulbright Alumni in Trinidad and Tobago.
- Promote links with Fulbright Alumni at the regional and international levels.
- Enhance the professional development of its members by organizing and encouraging their participation in workshops, seminars, symposia and continuing professional development programs relevant to the needs of the members.
- Promote the ideals and spirit of Senator William Fulbright as embodied in the Fulbright Program.
- Foster nation building and regional integration among the countries of the Caribbean region.
- Assist in the recruitment, selection and orientation of Fulbright Fellows, including arranging pre-departure meetings and re-entry assistance, in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy and the Institute of International Education (IIE).
- Facilitate Fulbright Alumni from other regions on visits to, and travel within, the Caribbean region.
- Maintain relationship with other Fulbright Alumni Associations and their programs around the world.
- Undertake programs of action in accordance with the identified needs and problems of the Caribbean region.
- Do all other things incidental to and conducive to the attainment of the objectives of the Association.
