Do you want to study in the USA for free? The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program 2025 could be your perfect chance! This fully funded program is designed for experienced professionals who want to improve their leadership skills and bring positive change to their home countries.
In this article by Travel to Abroad, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the Humphrey Fellowship Program – from what it is, who can apply, what you get, and how to apply successfully.

What is the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program?
The Humphrey Fellowship Program is a non-degree scholarship program. It brings mid-career professionals from developing countries to the United States for 10 months of academic and professional training.
This program does not lead to a U.S. degree, but it gives you the chance to learn at top U.S. universities, improve your professional skills, and network with global leaders. It also includes professional placements in U.S. organizations to give Fellows hands-on experience in their fields.
It is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and managed by the Institute of International Education (IIE).
👉 Learn more about fellowships
📚 Fields of Study
The Humphrey Fellowship Program focuses on areas that support global development and mutual understanding. Here are some of the fields you can study:
- Education Policy and Planning
- Public Health and HIV/AIDS Policy
- Environmental Policy and Climate Change
- Public Administration
- Journalism and Communications
- Law and Human Rights
- Technology Policy and Management
- Agricultural and Rural Development
- Economic Development
- Finance and Banking
- Drug Abuse Education, Treatment, and Prevention
You can find a full list on the official website.
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Not everyone can apply for the Humphrey Fellowship Program. You must meet certain eligibility requirements:
- Be a citizen of an eligible country (check with your local U.S. Embassy or Fulbright office)
- Have a bachelor’s degree or higher
- Have at least five years of full-time professional experience
- Have limited or no recent experience in the U.S.
- Show strong leadership skills and a commitment to public service
- Be proficient in English
In some cases, selected candidates who need extra help with English may be offered English language training before the program starts.
📌 How to Apply for the Humphrey Fellowship 2025
The application process is different for each country. You must apply through the U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Commission in your home country.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit your local U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Commission website
- Check application deadline (varies by country)
- Fill out the online application form
- Submit required documents:
- CV/Resume
- University transcripts
- Personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- Attend an interview (if shortlisted)
- Wait for final selection by the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board
🎓 What Are the Benefits?
This is a fully funded fellowship, which means it covers all the costs. Here are the benefits you get:
- Full tuition and fees at the host university
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Pre-academic English training (if needed)
- Book and study materials allowance
- Computer allowance
- Travel costs to and from the U.S.
- Professional development funds
- Health and accident insurance
You can focus completely on learning and growing without worrying about money.
🏛️ Host Universities
Some of the top U.S. universities that host Humphrey Fellows include:
- MIT
- Cornell University
- University of Washington
- Arizona State University
- Boston University
- Emory University
- Penn State University
Each university hosts Fellows in specific fields, and placements are based on your background and interests.
🤝 Professional Experience in the U.S.
One of the most exciting parts of the program is the professional affiliation. Fellows spend 6 weeks working with a U.S.-based organization, such as:
- NGOs
- Government agencies
- Think tanks
- Research institutions
This hands-on experience helps you apply what you’ve learned and build real-world skills.
🌐 Global Network of Leaders
Over 6,500 Fellows from 160+ countries have completed the Humphrey Fellowship Program. Many of them are now:
- Government ministers
- University professors
- Human rights activists
- Health care leaders
- Journalists and policymakers
This program opens the door to a powerful global network and lifelong connections.
📅 Important Dates
Application deadlines are usually between April and August, depending on your country. The program starts in August or September 2025.
Make sure to check the exact deadline for your country on the U.S. Embassy website or click here.
💡 Why Choose the Humphrey Fellowship?
- You get to study in the USA for free
- It’s a once-in-a-lifetime leadership experience
- You don’t need to take GRE or GMAT
- You gain access to world-class universities
- You build a global career network
- You return home with new skills and ideas to make a difference
🌟 About Travel to Abroad
Travel to Abroad is your trusted source for international scholarships, study abroad programs, and fellowships. We help students and professionals find the best opportunities to grow their careers and study overseas without financial stress.
Whether you’re looking for undergraduate, graduate, or professional scholarships, we’ve got guides, tips, and resources to help you succeed.
👉 Explore more scholarships on Travel to Abroad
🔗 Useful Links
- Official Program Website: www.humphreyfellowship.org
- List of Eligible Fields: Program Fields
- Application Information: How to Apply
✍ Final Words
If you’re a passionate professional looking to grow your skills, meet global leaders, and bring change to your community, the Humphrey Fellowship Program 2025 is your chance.
Don’t miss out on this fully funded opportunity to study in the USA for free. Apply now and take the first step toward a brighter future.