Fulbright-National Geographic Award Program

The Fulbright-National Geographic Award Program is designed for U.S. students who wish to conduct an in-depth examination of globally relevant issues as an extension of a Fulbright Open Study/Research project. To qualify, applicant proposals must align with the National Geographic Society's focus areas: Ocean, Land, Wildlife, Human Histories and Cultures, Space, or Planetary Health. Funded projects must incorporate science, storytelling, or education. Recipients of this award receive standard Fulbright U.S. Student Study/Research benefits along with additional grant funding, and they join the National Geographic Society's global community of Explorers, gaining access to specialized training, mentorship, and events. Because this is a merit-based international exchange fellowship funded by the federal government, it operates independently of the standard FAFSA or state-based financial aid applications, requiring its own detailed project proposal and application process. For the most up-to-date schedule, applicants should see the official page for current dates.