The Fulbright Postgraduate Scholarships provide the only scholarships available for academic work in any graduate programme at any recognised UK university. As part of the Fulbright US Student programme, these awards foster cultural understanding between the US and UK while offering comprehensive financial support for postgraduate study or independent research projects.
The US-UK Fulbright Commission administers these prestigious awards, partnering with dozens of leading UK universities. Established to promote mutual understanding through educational exchange, the Commission has facilitated academic and cultural diplomacy between the two nations for decades, creating a global alumni network of over 300,000 accomplished members.
Fulbright Postgraduate Scholarships Benefits
- Tuition waiver
- A personal living allowance (stipend)
- Sickness and accident coverage
- Cultural enrichment programmes and events
- Membership to national arts and culture organisations
- Access to a global alumni network of collaborative engagement and cultural diplomacy, with over 300,000 academically and professionally accomplished members
Fulbright Postgraduate Scholarships Eligibility Criteria
- Be a US citizen and a non-UK resident
- Hold a Bachelor degree or equivalent professional training/experience in a relevant field before departure to the UK
- Dual US-UK citizens are eligible to apply
- Preference is given to applicants who do not have extensive experience (six months or longer) in the UK
- Part time and distance learning masters/research degree courses are ineligible
How to Apply for Fulbright Postgraduate Scholarships?
- Review the available awards through the main Fulbright US Student programme portal
- Follow the IIE Fulbright US Student Program guidance, including timelines and components and award-specific instructions
- Make a separate application to your chosen UK institution, the timeline, and deadlines for which will vary from the Fulbright application
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interview during February and early March 2027
- All applicants will be informed of their status by late April 2027
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Fulbright Postgraduate Scholarships to the UK. These answers cover eligibility requirements, benefits, application deadlines, and the selection process for US citizens pursuing graduate studies at UK universities.
What do Fulbright Postgraduate Scholarships to the UK cover?
The scholarships generally include tuition waiver, a personal living allowance (stipend), sickness and accident coverage, cultural enrichment programmes and events, membership to national arts and culture organisations, and access to a global alumni network with over 300,000 members. The personal living allowance is intended to help cover the cost of living in the UK as a student.
Who is eligible to apply for these scholarships?
Applicants must be US citizens and non-UK residents who hold a Bachelor degree or equivalent professional training/experience before departure to the UK. Dual US-UK citizens are eligible, but preference is given to applicants without extensive UK experience (six months or longer). Part-time and distance learning courses are ineligible.
When is the application deadline for the 2027-28 awards?
Applications for 2027-28 are open until 6 October 2026 at 5 PM EST. The application process opens on 31 March 2026. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed in February/March 2027, with notifications sent by April 2027.
What types of programmes are covered by these awards?
The scholarships cover any graduate programme at recognised UK universities, including taught Master’s and research degrees. The programme offers dozens of awards across various disciplines and institutions, with specific awards available for different universities and fields of study.
How are applicants selected for these scholarships?
Selection committees assess academic merit, professional achievement, ambassadorial skills, intercultural sensitivity, leadership potential, community involvement, commitment to public service, and clear rationale for the chosen UK university/programme. The programme seeks well-rounded students who can promote mutual understanding.
Do I need to apply separately to UK universities?
Yes, applicants must make a separate application to their chosen UK institution, and the timeline and deadlines for these applications will vary from the Fulbright application. Candidates should conduct thorough university research to identify institutions that are a strong fit for their goals.
What is the duration of the Fulbright Postgraduate Scholarships?
The scholarships typically cover one academic year (2027-28), though some awards may provide funding for longer periods depending on the programme. For example, some PhD awards may cover up to three years, while certain programmes offer funding for up to four years.
What makes a strong application for these scholarships?
Strong applications demonstrate ambassadorial skills, intercultural sensitivity, genuine desire to learn about the UK and share American culture, extracurricular activities, community involvement, leadership potential, and plans to further the Fulbright mission and give back to the US upon returning.
Are there any restrictions on fields of study?
The programme offers awards across a wide range of disciplines through partnerships with various UK universities. While most fields are eligible, some specific awards target particular disciplines like STEM, arts and design, creative writing, performing arts, or health and wellbeing.
What happens after I submit my application?
After the 6 October 2026 deadline, shortlisted applicants will be invited for video call interviews in February/March 2027. All candidates will be notified of their status by late April 2027. Successful applicants will complete onboarding paperwork from May-September 2027 before arriving in the UK in September 2027.
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