Fulbright Degree Program 2025 Scholarship

The Fulbright Degree Program, sponsored by the United States Department of State and managed by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), is a prestigious opportunity for Pakistani students to pursue Master’s and PhD degrees in the United States. This comprehensive guide aims to provide essential information for the 2025 intake.

Funding and Support

The program covers tuition, textbooks, airfare, living stipend, and health insurance. USEFP assists with visa processing, ensuring a smooth transition for students.

Master’s Degree Program

• Open to candidates with 16 years of formal education.
• Recent graduates are encouraged, though MBA and Public Policy/Administration applicants need 2 years of work experience.

PhD Degree Program

• Candidates must have a Master’s, M.Phil, or equivalent (18 years of education).
• Preference for those with teaching, research, or public sector experience in Pakistan.

Eligibility

• Open to all academic disciplines, excluding clinical medicine.
• GRE General scores required: minimum 145 in each section, higher in relevant sections.
• High fluency in English, with Duolingo Test for shortlisted candidates.
• Pakistani citizenship, residency, and commitment to serve Pakistan post-study.

Program Cycle

• Annual application opening in November, closing on 28 February 2024.
• Review, interview, and selection process until mid-September.
• University placement and visa interviews until June, with U.S. departure from July onwards.

Ineligibility Criteria

• Dual U.S./Pakistan nationals, or close relatives with U.S. citizenship/residency.
• Previous Fulbright award recipients.
• Current U.S. residents or those on a work/student visa.

Application Process

• Online submission including GRE scores, transcripts (HEC-attested preferred), and three reference letters.
• Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• Official details available at USEFP Official Website.

Scholarships and Expectations

• 150 scholarships are expected in 2025.
• Grantees are expected to share their experiences and serve in Pakistan post-completion.
• Return to Pakistan within 30 days of program completion is mandatory.

Eligibility Clarifications

• Bachelor’s degree required for Master’s; Master’s or M.Phil for PhD.
• Fields of energy, water, agriculture, health, education, environment, and climate change are encouraged.
• MBA applicants need work experience.
• Foreign degree holders can apply, with priority for non-foreign-educated candidates.
• People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Standardized Examinations

• GRE before application deadline; score requirements vary by discipline.
• Duolingo Test for shortlisted candidates.
• GRE Subject Tests may be required for selected candidates.

Program Policies

• Visa assistance is provided, with a high success rate.
• University placements made by IIE in New York, considering preferences.
• Dependents allowed, subject to financial capability demonstration.

Selection Process

This is a four-stage process: screening, evaluation, interview, and final selection and the final approval by the Foreign Scholarship Board in Washington, D.C.

Application Tips

• Register and prepare for GRE.
• Use EducationUSA Advising Centers for resources.
• Apply online by February 28, 2024.
• Beware of scams; no fees for applying.

Embarking on the Fulbright journey is not just about acquiring a degree; it’s about becoming part of a legacy that promotes global understanding and individual excellence. For Pakistani students, it represents an unparalleled opportunity to enhance their skills and contribute significantly to their nation’s development upon their return.