UAE residents, students, and early-career professionals now have the opportunity to pursue advanced academic studies in the United States through the newly opened Fulbright Foreign Student Program for 2027, announced by the US Embassy on February 26, 2026.
The Fulbright Program represents the flagship international academic exchange initiative sponsored by the US government, operating in partnership with more than 160 countries worldwide. It offers participants what organizers describe as life-changing opportunities to study, conduct research, and contribute to solving complex global challenges.
Comprehensive Financial Support
The scholarship package covers tuition and required fees at US universities or other accredited educational institutions, provides a monthly stipend to cover reasonable living costs, and includes a limited health coverage plan for the duration of the programme. Recipients can study or conduct research in the United States for one year or longer.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must be a citizen of or a permanent resident able to hold a passport with Khulasat Al-Qaid (Family Book) from the UAE and must reside in the UAE throughout the application, selection, nomination, and placement processes. US citizens or legal permanent residents are not eligible.
Candidates must hold a US-equivalent bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution by the programme start date and demonstrate a strong academic background. Preference is given to those who have little or no previous experience studying or living in the United States.
Proficiency in English is required, though applicants who do not yet meet that standard may be eligible to attend a Long-Term English programme prior to the start of their academic course.
Fields of Study
Most fields of study are open to applicants, including the humanities, social sciences, science, technology, and engineering. However, programmes involving clinical studies, such as medicine and nursing, are not permitted. Non-clinical programmes, such as public health and nursing administration, are permitted.
Selection Process
Candidates will be selected through an open, merit-based competition in which leadership potential, academic excellence, and the ability to adapt to life in the United States are all taken into consideration. Participants are chosen for their academic merit and leadership potential and are considered among the best and brightest from their home societies, the organizers said.
The most up-to-date information on eligibility requirements and how to apply can be found on the Amideast website. Candidates can submit their applications directly at apply.iie.org/ffsp2027.
This scholarship opportunity complements the UAE’s growing focus on international education partnerships and streamlined visa procedures that facilitate academic mobility for residents across all seven emirates.
