Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships
by United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF)
About Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships
The Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships let Indian professionals with leadership and community experience study for a master’s degree at a US university. The programme is aimed at people who already have work experience and will return to India to apply what they learn.
Fellowships are given only in selected fields such as economics, public health, sustainable development and journalism, so check that your field is on the list.
What it covers
- Funding for tuition and fees
- Living and related costs
- Round-trip economy airfare from your home city
- Health (accident and sickness) cover
- J-1 visa support
- Note: no support is given for dependents
Eligibility
- Bachelor's degree with at least 55% marks from a recognised Indian university (or a completed master's degree)
- At least three years of full-time paid work experience in your field
- Proof of leadership and community service
- No earlier degree from a US university and not currently studying in the US
- Employer endorsement if you are employed
- Indian government or state civil servants are not eligible
How to apply
- Check that your field of study is on the fellowship's list
- Read the applicant instructions on the USIEF website
- Fill in the online application within the call period
- Get the employer endorsement form signed if you are working
- Wait for the application review and shortlist
- Attend the interview if shortlisted
- Once selected, apply to US universities with USIEF guidance
Documents usually required
- Degree certificates and marksheets
- Proof of work experience
- Employer endorsement form
- Statement of purpose and essays
- References
- Passport
Frequently asked questions
Which fields are covered?
Economics, environmental science, higher education administration, international legal studies, journalism and mass communication, public health, sustainable development, and urban and regional planning.
Can I take my family?
The fellowship does not fund dependents.
Do I need work experience?
Yes, at least three years of full-time paid work in your field.
Is the funding always enough?
USIEF says some students may need to add other funds, so plan your budget.
Scholarship terms, amounts and dates change every year. Always confirm the latest details on the official website before you apply. Details last checked: September 2026. Open official website