Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative 2027–2028: Funded Research Fellowship in the USA for Academics and Professionals
Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative 2027–2028: Funded Research Fellowship in the USA for Academics and Professionals. The Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative 2027–2028 offers academics, government officials and experienced professionals from eligible Southeast Asian countries an opportunity to undertake research at a host institution in the United States.
The initiative supports research on issues affecting the relationship between the United States and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Selected scholars will spend approximately three to four months in the United States during the first half of 2028, working on research projects with regional significance.
The award provides financial support that can include international return airfare, a monthly stipend, professional and settling-in allowances, qualifying research expenses and health and accident insurance.
Important eligibility clarification: This is not a worldwide Fulbright fellowship. It is specifically for eligible citizens of ASEAN member states and, under the expanded programme, Timor-Leste. Applicants must normally reside in their eligible country during the nomination and selection process and return there after completing the programme. Consequently, applicants who are Zimbabwean citizens without eligible ASEAN citizenship should not assume they qualify simply because the opportunity is advertised internationally. ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program+2
APPLICATION SUMMARY
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative |
| Academic year | 2027–2028 |
| Programme type | Visiting research fellowship |
| Host country | United States |
| Duration | 3–4 months |
| Expected research period | January–March 2028 start; first half of 2028 |
| Eligible applicants | Academics, government officials, journalists and experienced professionals |
| Eligible nationalities | ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste, subject to country-specific rules |
| Research focus | U.S.–ASEAN relations and regional priorities |
| Funding | Airfare, stipend, allowances, insurance and qualifying research costs |
| Application language | English |
| Application portal | Fulbright online application |
| Deadline | Varies by participating country |
About the Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative
The Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative was launched in 2012 to strengthen educational cooperation and people-to-people engagement between the United States and ASEAN countries.
The programme supports researchers and professionals whose work contributes to understanding important issues affecting the ASEAN region and its relationship with the United States.
It is designed to encourage scholarly exchange, develop professional networks and promote research that can inform regional cooperation and policy discussions.
Since its establishment, the initiative has supported scholars researching subjects such as:
- Public health and pandemic response.
- ASEAN economic integration.
- Trade and investment.
- Food safety and food technology.
- Human trafficking.
- Maritime security and South China Sea issues.
- Indo-Pacific regional cooperation.
- Education and information sciences.
The programme has expanded its annual awards to include scholars from ASEAN member countries and Timor-Leste. The current initiative anticipates supporting up to 22 qualified scholars, with approximately two participants from each participating country. ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program+1
About the research fellowship
The initiative gives selected scholars an opportunity to conduct research at a U.S. university, research institute, think tank or other suitable host institution.
The research period lasts between three and four months, with selected scholars expected to travel to the United States during the first half of 2028.
Projects should address priority issues affecting the U.S.–ASEAN relationship, ASEAN regional priorities or topics with clear implications for the wider ASEAN region.
Unlike some bilateral visiting scholar awards, this programme places particular emphasis on research with regional relevance rather than projects narrowly focused on a single country or locality.
Participants are also encouraged to build professional relationships with U.S. institutions and researchers that can continue after the fellowship ends.
During their stay, scholars may have opportunities to contribute an ASEAN perspective through guest lectures, seminars, academic events and professional conferences. ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program+2
Research areas and eligible subjects
Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative 2027–2028: Funded Research Fellowship in the USA for Academics and Professionals
The initiative welcomes proposals across a broad range of academic, professional and policy-related subjects. The strongest applications will connect the proposed research to an issue of importance to the United States and ASEAN as a region.
Examples of relevant research areas include:
1. Education and academic cooperation
Potential topics include education policy, higher education partnerships, regional academic mobility, skills development and cooperation between U.S. and ASEAN educational institutions.
2. Economic and financial integration
Researchers may explore regional financial market integration, trade policy, investment, economic cooperation and the development of stronger regional economic relationships.
3. Science, technology and artificial intelligence
Relevant subjects may include:
- Artificial intelligence policy and governance.
- Information sciences.
- Critical and emerging technologies.
- Cybersecurity.
- Digital transformation.
- Technology cooperation and innovation.
4. Environmental science and energy security
Research could address environmental sustainability, climate-related challenges, energy security, critical minerals and regional cooperation on environmental issues.
5. Public health and food technology
Potential areas include public health policy, global health, pandemic preparedness, food safety, food technology and regional health cooperation.
6. Law, governance and public administration
Researchers may investigate maritime law, international legal cooperation, public administration, regional governance and policy development.
7. Journalism and regional communication
Relevant research could examine journalism, media cooperation, information integrity, public communication and the role of media in strengthening regional understanding.
8. Maritime cooperation and regional security
Other priority areas include maritime cooperation, the Indo-Pacific region, transnational crime, supply-chain resilience and regional security.
The exact research priorities may differ between participating countries. Applicants should check their local Fulbright commission or U.S. Embassy announcement before finalising a proposal. macee.org.my+1
Fellowship benefits and financial support
The Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative provides financial assistance to selected participants to support their research stay in the United States.
The published award descriptions identify the following benefits.
1. International return airfare
Selected scholars receive international round-trip airfare to travel between their home country and the United States.
The travel arrangements are administered according to the applicable Fulbright award conditions.
2. Monthly living stipend
Fellows receive a monthly stipend to support living expenses during the research period in the United States.
The amount is determined by the applicable award arrangements and may depend on the host location. Applicants should consult their country’s Fulbright programme announcement for the relevant stipend information.
3. Professional allowance
The award includes a professional allowance intended to help scholars meet eligible professional expenses associated with their research and academic activities.
4. Settling-in allowance
A settling-in allowance helps selected scholars manage eligible initial expenses when arriving in the United States.
5. Health and accident insurance
The programme provides health and accident insurance coverage for the selected scholar, subject to the applicable award conditions.
Applicants should not assume that this coverage extends to spouses, children or other dependants.
6. University laboratory and research fees
Qualifying university laboratory and research fees may be covered where applicable and approved under the programme’s funding conditions.
The amount and approval of these expenses depend on the research requirements and the relevant country award arrangements.
7. Professional development and networking
In addition to financial assistance, the fellowship offers opportunities to:
- Work with U.S. academic and research institutions.
- Establish professional relationships with American researchers.
- Exchange knowledge with scholars from ASEAN countries.
- Participate in academic and professional discussions.
- Develop networks that may support future research collaboration.
Important funding note: The award is a funded visiting research grant, but it should not automatically be described as covering every personal or family expense. The programme does not provide dependent support. Individual country announcements may also give more detailed information about allowances and eligible research expenses. ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program+2
Who can apply? Eligibility requirements
Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative 2027–2028: Funded Research Fellowship in the USA for Academics and Professionals
The initiative is intended for experienced academics and professionals whose work relates to U.S.–ASEAN issues.
Although individual country announcements contain additional requirements, the general eligibility framework includes the following.
1. Citizenship of an eligible country
Applicants must be citizens of one of the ASEAN member states or Timor-Leste, subject to the programme’s country-specific eligibility rules.
Participating countries include:
- Brunei Darussalam.
- Cambodia.
- Indonesia.
- Laos.
- Malaysia.
- Myanmar.
- The Philippines.
- Singapore.
- Thailand.
- Vietnam.
- Timor-Leste.
Applicants should check whether their country’s programme is administered by a Fulbright commission, a national education foundation or the U.S. Embassy.
2. Residency in the home country
Applicants are generally required to reside in their eligible country throughout the nomination and selection process.
They must also be committed to returning to their home country after completing the research programme in the United States.
For example, the Philippine programme specifies Philippine citizenship and residence in the Philippines during the application and selection process. The Malaysian programme similarly requires Malaysian citizenship and residence in Malaysia. ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program+2
3. Professional background
The programme is open to qualified professionals working in fields connected to U.S.–ASEAN issues.
Eligible professional groups include:
- University faculty members.
- Academic researchers.
- Foreign ministry officials.
- Government officials.
- Journalists.
- Private-sector professionals.
- Think tank researchers and staff.
- Professionals working with non-governmental organisations.
Applicants should be able to demonstrate that their professional or academic work relates to the proposed research topic.
4. Significant professional or academic achievements
Applicants are expected to have a significant record of scholarly or professional accomplishment.
This means that candidates should be able to demonstrate relevant experience, contributions, publications, research outputs, policy work or other achievements that support their proposed project.
5. English-language proficiency
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient English proficiency to conduct research, communicate with their U.S. host institution and participate in academic or professional activities.
The local Fulbright programme may specify additional language documentation or assessment requirements.
6. Relevant research proposal
Candidates must propose a research project that contributes to understanding the U.S.–ASEAN relationship or addresses an important ASEAN regional priority.
Projects with clear regional relevance are given greater emphasis than proposals focused exclusively on a narrow local issue.
7. Good health
Applicants must be in good health and able to undertake the proposed research activities in the United States.
Medical documentation or pre-departure medical examinations may be required under the relevant country programme.
8. Commitment to return home
Selected scholars must commit to returning to their home country after completing the fellowship.
This is an important condition of the visiting scholar programme. ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program+2
Who is not eligible?
Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative 2027–2028: Funded Research Fellowship in the USA for Academics and Professionals
The programme also has restrictions intended to ensure that the fellowship supports eligible scholars who can participate in the exchange programme.
The Philippine and Malaysian programme announcements identify several ineligibility conditions, including:
- Applicants who are currently living in the United States.
- Individuals currently in the United States for study, teaching, research or employment.
- Individuals who have received a Fulbright grant within the previous five years.
- Individuals who have participated in the U.S. J-1 Exchange Visitor programme under the Professor or Research Scholar category within the previous two years.
- Individuals who hold U.S. permanent residency or dual citizenship where this makes them ineligible under the applicable country rules.
Preference is also given to qualified applicants who have not had recent and substantial experience in the United States.
The precise exclusions should be confirmed through the relevant country’s official announcement. ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program+1
Research proposal and U.S. host institution
An important part of the application is identifying a suitable U.S. institution where the proposed research can be conducted.
Potential host institutions may include:
- Universities.
- Research institutes.
- Think tanks.
- Academic centres.
- Other suitable research organisations.
Applicants are encouraged to establish a likely affiliation with a U.S. institution before submitting their formal applications.
A letter of invitation from a U.S. host institution is strongly encouraged in the published Philippine and Malaysian calls, although it is not always required at the time of initial submission. Applicants should confirm the precise rules in their own country’s announcement.
A good research proposal should explain:
- The research problem and its importance.
- The connection to U.S.–ASEAN relations or ASEAN regional priorities.
- The research objectives and questions.
- The methodology and proposed activities.
- Why the selected U.S. institution is appropriate.
- The expected outcomes and potential policy or professional impact.
- How the research may contribute to cooperation after the fellowship.
The proposal should be realistic for a three-to-four-month research period. It should not simply describe a broad academic interest without a clear research plan. macee.org.my+1
Application deadlines for the 2027–2028 programme
Deadlines vary by country
One important detail about this fellowship is that there is no single application deadline for all participating countries. Each country’s Fulbright commission or administering organisation publishes its own application period.
The following country announcements provide examples of the different deadlines for the 2027–2028 cycle.
| Country | Application deadline | Status as of 30 October 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Philippines | 16 October 2026, 11:59 p.m. Manila time | Closed |
| Thailand | 15 November 2026, 11:59 p.m. Thailand time | Open |
| Malaysia | 16 November 2026 | Open |
Sources: ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program+2
Other participating countries may have different deadlines. Applicants should not use the Philippine deadline or another country’s deadline as their own.
For example:
- Philippines: The published deadline was 16 October 2026. Applicants who missed it should check with the Philippine-American Educational Foundation for future application opportunities.
- Thailand: The 2027–2028 announcement gives an application period from 1 October to 15 November 2026.
- Malaysia: The Malaysian-American Commission on Educational Exchange lists applications from 6 October to 16 November 2026.
If your country is not listed above, consult its official Fulbright programme website or U.S. Embassy announcement for the applicable deadline.
Required application documents
The exact document requirements depend on the country administering the award. However, the published Philippine and Malaysian calls provide a useful indication of the materials applicants may need.
These include:
1. Completed online application
Applicants must complete the Fulbright online application form through the official portal.
When completing the application, ensure that you select the Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program under the award information section.
2. Academic or professional CV
Prepare an updated curriculum vitae or résumé outlining your:
- Educational qualifications.
- Employment history.
- Research experience.
- Academic publications.
- Professional achievements.
- Relevant projects and contributions.
The Philippine announcement specifies a CV of no more than six pages, while the Malaysian announcement specifies a maximum of four pages. Follow your country’s instructions.
3. Research project proposal
Applicants are required to submit a detailed project statement describing the proposed research or academic activity at a U.S. institution.
The Philippine and Malaysian announcements specify a proposal of approximately three to five pages.
4. Writing samples and bibliography
Applicants may be asked to provide academic writing samples, published research or other relevant professional work.
The Philippine announcement recommends writing samples of no more than 20 pages and a bibliography.
5. Letter of invitation from a U.S. institution
A letter of invitation from a prospective U.S. host institution is strongly encouraged.
Although it may not be compulsory at the initial application stage, establishing a likely affiliation before applying can strengthen the proposal and help programme administrators arrange a suitable placement.
6. Letters of recommendation
The Philippine announcement requires three letters of recommendation submitted through the online application process.
Applicants should identify referees who can speak meaningfully about their academic qualifications, professional achievements and research potential.
7. Academic transcripts and degree certificates
Applicants may need to provide official or certified copies of their academic transcripts and diplomas.
8. Additional country-specific documents
Some countries require additional documents.
For example, the Philippine announcement lists a National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) clearance issued no earlier than six months before application.
The Malaysian announcement lists additional requirements such as identification documents and a sabbatical-leave letter.
These requirements are not universal. Applicants should follow the checklist issued by their own national Fulbright programme. ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program+1
How to apply for the Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative
Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative 2027–2028: Funded Research Fellowship in the USA for Academics and Professionals
Interested academics and professionals should apply through the official online portal and follow their country’s application instructions.
Step 1: Confirm your eligibility
Check that you hold citizenship in an eligible ASEAN country or Timor-Leste and meet the residency, professional experience and other requirements of your country’s programme.
Step 2: Find your national Fulbright programme
Visit your country’s Fulbright commission, educational foundation or U.S. Embassy website to confirm the current application announcement.
Step 3: Identify a U.S. host institution
Research universities, think tanks and research institutes that work in your proposed subject area.
Contact suitable researchers or academic departments to discuss possible research affiliation.
Step 4: Develop your research proposal
Prepare a focused proposal addressing an issue relevant to U.S.–ASEAN relations or ASEAN regional priorities.
Explain the research objectives, methodology, expected outcomes and the importance of the proposed U.S. affiliation.
Step 5: Prepare supporting documents
Gather your CV, academic records, recommendation letters, writing samples and any additional documents specified by your country’s programme.
Step 6: Complete the online application
Visit the Fulbright application portal, create an account and select the relevant award.
Step 7: Submit before your national deadline
Review the application carefully, upload all required documents and submit before the deadline set by your country’s administering organisation.ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program+2
How competitive is the fellowship?
The Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative is a competitive, merit-based programme.
Applications are assessed according to Fulbright selection standards, and the programme places importance on the applicant’s academic or professional record and the quality of the proposed research.
A strong application should demonstrate:
- A significant record of academic or professional achievement.
- A clear connection between the research and U.S.–ASEAN priorities.
- A proposal with regional relevance.
- A realistic research plan that can be completed within three to four months.
- A suitable U.S. host institution.
- The potential to develop lasting professional and academic relationships.
Applicants should also consider how they will share the knowledge gained in the United States after returning to their home countries.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative 2027–2028: Funded Research Fellowship in the USA for Academics and Professionals
1. Is the Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative open to applicants worldwide?
No. It is designed for eligible citizens of ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste. Applicants must also satisfy their country’s residency and other requirements.
2. Can Zimbabweans apply?
Zimbabwean citizenship alone does not qualify an applicant for this initiative. A Zimbabwe-based applicant would need to meet the programme’s eligible citizenship and residency rules. This is not a general international fellowship open to all nationalities.
3. How long is the research fellowship?
The research period is approximately three to four months in the United States.
4. When will selected scholars travel to the United States?
Selected scholars are expected to travel during the first half of 2028, with research programmes beginning between January and March 2028.
5. Does the fellowship provide financial support?
Yes. The award can include international return airfare, a monthly stipend, professional and settling-in allowances, qualifying research fees and health and accident insurance.
6. Does the programme cover dependants?
No. The published programme information states that dependent support is not provided.
7. Do I need a PhD to apply?
The programme is aimed at established academics and professionals. The exact academic or professional qualification requirements should be checked in the announcement for your country. For example, Malaysia’s published call specifies a doctoral degree or equivalent professional training or experience.
8. Must I have a U.S. university invitation before applying?
A letter of invitation is strongly encouraged in the published Philippine and Malaysian calls, but it is not necessarily compulsory at the initial application stage. Applicants should establish a likely U.S. affiliation and follow their country’s instructions.
9. Can I apply if I have previously received a Fulbright award?
The Philippine and Malaysian announcements identify receipt of a Fulbright grant within the previous five years as an exclusion. Check the exact rules applicable to your country.
10. What is the application deadline?
Deadlines differ by country. For the current cycle, the published Malaysian deadline is 16 November 2026, while Thailand’s is 15 November 2026.
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Final thoughts
Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative 2027–2028: Funded Research Fellowship in the USA for Academics and Professionals
Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative 2027–2028: Funded Research Fellowship in the USA for Academics and Professionals. The Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative 2027–2028 offers an important opportunity for experienced academics, government officials, journalists and professionals to conduct research in the United States while strengthening academic and professional cooperation across the ASEAN region.
Its combination of research funding, international travel support, a monthly stipend and access to U.S. research institutions makes it particularly valuable for scholars working on regional policy, public health, technology, education, economic integration, environmental issues and other areas of mutual interest.
However, applicants must pay close attention to the citizenship and residency requirements. This is a regional exchange programme rather than a worldwide postdoctoral or visiting scholar award.
Eligible applicants should identify their national Fulbright programme, prepare a research proposal with clear ASEAN relevance and begin contacting prospective U.S. host institutions well before their country’s deadline.
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