Fulbright Foreign Student Program (FFSP) 2026-2027
The U.S. Embassy in Cameroon is pleased to announce the open competition for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program (FFSP) for the 2026-2027 academic year. Established in 1946 and funded by the U.S. government, the Fulbright Program is designed to foster mutual understanding through academic and cultural exchange.
This is a competitive, merit-based scholarship program that recruits and nominates young Cameroonian professionals for graduate-level studies at U.S. universities. Each year, approximately 3-5 Cameroonians receive fully funded scholarships under this program.
All awards are subject to approval by the J. William Fulbright Scholarship Board, availability of funds, and successful academic placement in a U.S. university.
Scholarship Benefits
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program provides successful candidates with a full scholarship, covering the following:
Tuition fees for the duration of the program (up to two years).
Round-trip airfare between Cameroon and the United States.
A monthly stipend to cover living expenses.
Health insurance throughout the study period.
Opportunities for cultural and educational exchange through seminars, networking, and professional development activities.
The scholarship supports Master’s and Ph.D. programs, with priority given to candidates pursuing Master’s degrees. However, Ph.D. applicants with outstanding academic and professional backgrounds may also be considered.
For candidates accepted into programs shorter than two years, funding will be provided only for the duration specified by the host institution. Those selected for non-degree research programs (visiting student researchers) will receive funding for 9-10 months of academic research.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Be a Cameroonian citizen or a permanent resident with a valid Cameroonian passport.
Hold at least a four-year undergraduate degree or its equivalent.
Applicants with a three-year university degree must have completed thirteen (13) years of primary and secondary education.
Their undergraduate degree must qualify them for graduate studies in Cameroon.
Final decisions on degree equivalency will be made by U.S. universities.
Have a strong academic record and meet U.S. university admission standards.
Demonstrate English language proficiency sufficient for full-time graduate study.
Candidates with moderate English proficiency may be eligible for a Long-Term English (LTE) language training program for up to eight months before starting their academic studies.
LTE participation will be determined by the U.S. Embassy and program organizers based on TOEFL test scores and performance during interviews.
Show a serious commitment to completing the program as scheduled and returning to Cameroon to contribute to national development.
Preference is given to applicants who have not had extensive or recent experience in the United States.
Additionally, special accommodations are available for students with disabilities. The program has previously provided screen readers, note-taking software, laptops, mobile phones, canes, and wheelchairs to assist grantees while studying in the U.S.
Selection Criteria
The selection process is based on academic and professional merit, without discrimination based on race, gender, age, religion, socio-economic background, disability, or sexual orientation.
A strong candidate will demonstrate the following:
A clear and well-defined study objective that aligns with their future career goals.
Relevant work experience in their field of study, demonstrating depth and expertise.
Leadership potential through involvement in academic, extracurricular, community, and professional development activities.
A commitment to returning to Cameroon and using the knowledge gained to contribute to national development.
A willingness to serve as a cultural ambassador, promoting mutual understanding between Cameroon and the U.S.
For candidates applying for the Long-Term English (LTE) training component, additional criteria include:
Must be applying for a Master’s degree in their current field.
Ph.D., MBA, Law, or non-degree program applicants are not eligible for LTE training.
Must be available to start LTE training in January or March 2026.
Required Documents
All applications must be submitted online and include the following:
Personal Statement (Essay): This essay should detail the applicant’s background, academic and professional experiences, career goals, and how the Fulbright Program fits into their aspirations.
Study Objectives (Essay): A clear and detailed description of what the applicant intends to study, its relevance to their career, and how it will benefit Cameroon upon completion.
Resume/CV: A summary of academic qualifications, work experience, leadership roles, and extracurricular activities.
University Transcripts: Official academic records showing grades and coursework completed.
Diplomas: Certified copies of degrees or equivalent certificates.
Three Letters of Recommendation: Written by professors, employers, or other professional references who can assess the applicant’s qualifications and potential.
Writing Sample (Highly Recommended): A research paper, thesis, or professional writing sample related to the applicant’s field of study.
Application Process and Deadline
Application Deadline: April 21, 2025
The application process includes:
Online submission of all required documents before the deadline.
Review and selection by a panel of experts.
Interviews for shortlisted candidates, conducted by the U.S. Embassy in Cameroon.
Final nomination and approval by the J. William Fulbright Scholarship Board.
Selected candidates will be notified and assisted with the university placement and visa application process.
Program Expectations
Successful candidates are expected to:
Maintain academic excellence and complete their studies within the designated period.
Participate actively in Fulbright enrichment programs and cultural exchange activities.
Abide by U.S. immigration and university regulations throughout their stay.
Return to Cameroon after completing their studies and contribute to national development.
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is an opportunity for highly motivated Cameroonian professionals to gain advanced education, leadership training, and international exposure. By participating, scholars will join a global network of Fulbright alumni committed to fostering innovation, research, and cross-cultural collaboration.
