Apply for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program 2026/2027 in the USA. A fully funded research grant for Nigerian doctoral students. Deadline: June 1, 2026.
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program 2026/2027 is a prestigious academic exchange initiative funded by the U.S. Department of State. For the 2026/2027 cycle, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria is seeking exceptionally promising doctoral students to conduct their research at premier American universities.
This program is specifically designed to strengthen the academic staff of Nigerian universities by providing them with access to advanced resources and global networks. As a “Visiting Researcher,” you will spend 6 to 9 months in the U.S., returning to Nigeria to complete your PhD and contribute to your home institution. The application window opens on February 1 and closes on June 1, 2026.
Key Details
| Feature | Description |
| Programme Level | Doctoral Research (Visiting Researcher) |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded (All-inclusive) |
| Sponsor | U.S. Department of State |
| Host Country | United States |
| Deadline | June 1, 2026 |
About the Fulbright Foreign Student Program (FFSP)
The FFSP in Nigeria is primarily a capacity-building program. It targets young faculty members and researchers who are already enrolled in a PhD program at a Nigerian university. The goal is to provide these “Citizens of Change” with the tools, data, and mentorship found in U.S. research environments.
Unlike many other scholarships, the FFSP for Nigeria focuses on non-degree research. You will not be earning a degree from the U.S. institution; instead, you will be conducting the core research necessary for your Nigerian degree. This fosters a unique bilateral exchange where scholars share Nigerian insights with U.S. peers while adopting advanced methodologies to bring back home.
Scholarship Benefits
The Fulbright grant is a comprehensive package that covers all essential costs, allowing you to focus entirely on your research:
- Travel: Full round-trip airfare from Nigeria to the U.S.
- Monthly Stipend: A maintenance allowance to cover basic living expenses.
- Housing Allowance: Specific support for your accommodation in the U.S.
- Allowances: Professional funds for books, supplies, a computer, and settling-in costs.
- Health Coverage: Basic university health insurance (primary) and Fulbright ASPE health benefits (secondary).
- Special Support: Accommodations for students with disabilities, including screen readers or specialized mobility aids.
Important Note: The grant does not cover dependents. Spouses and children are not permitted to travel with the grantee to the United States.
Eligibility Requirements
The Fulbright program has very specific eligibility criteria. It is strictly for PhD students; Master’s or first-degree applicants are not qualified.
- Nationality: Must be a citizen or permanent resident of Nigeria with a valid Nigerian passport.
- Academic Status: Must be a Doctoral or PhD student who is at least two years into their program at a Nigerian university.
- English Proficiency: High level of English is required. Applicants must score at least 90 on the TOEFL iBT. (Scores should be submitted by September 2025).
- Institutional Support: You must have the official endorsement of your home university or research institute.
- Return Commitment: A serious commitment to returning to Nigeria upon completion of the research is mandatory.
- U.S. Experience: Preference is given to those who have not previously studied in the U.S.
Approved Fields of Study
Competition is open to almost all disciplines, including:
- STEM: Science, Engineering, Technology, Agriculture, Food Science.
- Social Sciences: Economics, Political Science, International Relations, Public Policy.
- Humanities/Arts: Journalism, Media Studies, Arts, Tourism, Education.
- Health: Public Health.
Selection Process and Plagiarism Policy
The selection process is highly competitive. Shortlisting is based on the quality of your Research Proposal. The proposal must outline your objectives, methodology, and a clear justification for why the research must be done in the United States.
Zero-Tolerance Plagiarism Policy
Fulbright maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding plagiarism.
- All application materials are processed through detection software.
- Generative AI Warning: Directly copying content produced by GenAI (like ChatGPT) may negatively impact your application or lead to disqualification.
- You must certify that the work is your own original academic expression.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Access the Portal
Log onto the official IIE application website: https://apply.iie.org/ffsp2026. Create an account and save your password.
Step 2: Select the Correct Objective
In the “Degree Objective” section, you must select “Visiting Researcher” or “Non-Degree.”
Step 3: Prepare the Core Documents
- Research Objective: A clearly written, focused proposal.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A professional resume detailing your academic achievements.
- Writing Sample: A piece of your academic writing related to your field.
- Transcripts: Scanned copies of transcripts from all post-secondary institutions.
Step 4: Request References
Submit the details of three referees (academic or professional) who can attest to your competence. They will receive an electronic link to upload their letters.
Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline
Ensure all documents and the online form are completed and submitted by Monday, June 1, 2026.
Final Thoughts
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program 2026/2027 is a life-changing opportunity for Nigerian doctoral students to elevate their research to a global standard. It requires a high level of motivation and a clear vision for how your work will benefit Nigeria. Start by seeking guidance from Fulbright alumni at your university—they are often the best resource for refining your research proposal.
For specific questions, you can contact the U.S. Mission at: Nigeriafulbright@state.gov