Number of recipients
In addition to being a prestigious academic exchange program, the Fulbright Program is designed to expand and strengthen relationships between the people of the United States and citizens of other nations and to promote international understanding and cooperation. To support this mission, Fulbright Scholars may be asked to give public talks, mentor students, and otherwise engage with the host community, in addition to their primary activities.
Conduct research in area of interest. Some host institutions may also desire the Scholar to conduct seminars and/or workshops, or to consult on curriculum and faculty development.
Any appropriate institution.
Flex grants may begin after mid-July 2026 and be completed by September 30, 2028.
The Flex Award is designed for scholars who require multiple visits to the host country. This option allows grants to be conducted over two or three short segments. Applicants must select Flex in the application form, and clearly describe their plans for Flex in their project statement, including a project timeline. Flex grantees may be asked to give public talks, mentor students, and otherwise engage with the host-country academic community.
All applicants must meet the Program eligibility requirements (click to review the requirements).
Applicants who need assistance in identifying an institution with which to affiliate can contact the Fulbright Commission in Nepal for guidance prior to submission of the application.
Contact Senior Program Officer - Nishtha Rajbhandari (nishtha@fulbrightnepal.org.np).
Local language fluency sufficient to complete the research project is recommended. For applicants without local language proficiency, the feasibility of conducting the project must be demonstrated in the project statement. Completion of the Language Proficiency Report(s) optional. (Please note that hiring local language translators and interpreters is common for researchers in Nepal and the Fulbright Commission can assist with recommendations if necessary.)
Three years of postdoctoral teaching or research experience and associate professor rank or above preferred. In exceptional cases, for artists or professionals, recognized professional standing and substantial professional accomplishments may be considered in lieu of a Ph.D. or other terminal degree.
Nepal Commission Website: USEF-Nepal (Fulbright Commission in Nepal)
Webinar Resources: For more information on applying, including alumni perspectives, please view our webinars on Fulbright Opportunities in South Asia.
Contact for Support:
$3,600 per month
Grantees are responsible for arranging their own housing.
Estimated Cost of Living: Housing costs vary depending on the location, size, and quality of the residence, starting from $250 per month for a room with kitchen and more for apartments or houses with amenities. For day-to-day expenses, $20 would suffice for one person cooking at home. Dining out could be as high as $30 per meal at a good restaurant.
Travel and Transportation: Travel for both Nepalese and foreigners has been made easy due to the advent of ride apps such as Pathao and InDrive. Public buses are cheaper but congested. Scholars are advised to live near their research or host institution location to reduce commuting.
South and Central Asia Fulbright Regional Travel Grant
Fulbright Scholars in the South and Central Asia (SCA) region can apply for a regional travel grant, supported by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. This grant allows scholars to participate in various professional activities at academic institutions or non-profit organizations in eligible SCA countries:
Grant Coverage: The grant provides travel expenses to and from the host country, and lodging may be arranged by the host institution.
Application Details:
South and Central Asia Fulbright Conference
Each year, the U.S.-India Educational Foundation hosts the South and Central Asia Fulbright Conference in India (typically in February or March). Funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, this conference brings together Fulbright U.S. Scholars and Student Researchers from across the SCA region.
Conference Highlights:
Additional Funding: Financial assistance to attend the conference is provided as an exclusive Fulbright grant benefit.
These benefits provide valuable opportunities for Fulbright Scholars to expand their impact, foster regional connections, and enrich their Fulbright experience.
Final grant amounts will be determined prior to the start of the academic year and are subject to the availability of funds. The United States Department of State and the Fulbright Commission in the host country reserve the right to alter, without notice, participating countries, number of awards and allowances.
Nepal offers a unique and transformative experience for Fulbrighters, blending its rich cultural heritage with a dynamic landscape of political and social change. In recent decades, the country has undergone significant transition, including the adoption of a federal constitution in 2015 that shifted key decision-making powers to provincial levels, empowering communities across its diverse regions.
With 40.33% of its population aged 16-40 (as per the 2011 Population and Housing Census), Nepal is a youthful nation ripe with potential. However, its educational infrastructure faces challenges that call for improvement, presenting important opportunities for teaching, research, and collaboration between U.S. and Nepalese institutions. While resources in Nepalese higher education may be modest compared to those in the U.S., Fulbrighters often find enthusiastic colleagues and motivated students eager to engage with contemporary global issues.
Success as a Fulbright grantee in Nepal requires patience, adaptability, a thirst for adventure, and a good sense of humor. These qualities help scholars navigate the cultural, logistical, and environmental nuances of living and working in this Himalayan nation.
Academic Environment and Scheduling
Nepalese institutions collaborating with the United States Educational Foundation in Nepal (USEF-Nepal) provide diverse opportunities for teaching and research. Academic calendars vary, so Fulbright Scholars typically begin their programs in July/August or January. Applicants should confirm their ideal grant dates when requesting an invitation letter from a host institution.
Estimated Cost of Living
Housing costs vary depending on the location, size, and quality of the residence, starting from $250 per month for a room with kitchen and more for apartments or houses with amenities. For day-to-day expenses, $20 would suffice for one person cooking at home. Dining out could be as high as $30 per meal at a good restaurant.
Transportation and Travel
Travel for both Nepalese and foreigners has been made easy due to the advent of ride apps such as Pathao and InDrive. Public buses are cheaper but congested. Scholars are advised to live near their research or host institution location to reduce commuting.
Family and Healthcare
For scholars with children, proximity to international-standard schools like Lincoln School and Ullens School is a priority. Healthcare needs are supported by high-quality clinics such as CIWEC Hospital and the Nepal International Clinic, which cater to international patients and have an established reputation.
Nepal’s unique challenges and vibrant opportunities make it an inspiring destination for Fulbright grantees. Whether teaching, conducting research, or exploring Nepal's culture and landscapes, scholars often find the experience deeply rewarding and transformative.
For grantee profiles: https://usefnepal.org/grantee/fulbright-scholar-award/
Visit our Scholar Directory to view and search all Fulbright alumni. You can also learn more about Fulbright Alumni Ambassadors.