About the Program

The Fulbright Specialist Program (FSP) is a dynamic initiative under the prestigious Fulbright Program, established in 2001 by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). Implemented globally by World Learning, the program fosters collaboration between U.S. academics or professionals and institutions abroad.

In Nepal, the FSP empowers host institutions to design and propose projects within eligible disciplines that align with their organizational priorities. These projects are matched with highly qualified U.S. academics or professionals who bring their expertise to strengthen institutional linkages and advance mutual goals.

The program offers U.S. experts at the faculty or full professional level—such as academics, attorneys, journalists, scientists, economists, and specialists in other eligible fields—an opportunity to share their knowledge and skills through impactful, host-driven initiatives. These collaborations exchange knowledge, build institutional capacity, and create long-term partnerships that benefit both U.S. and international communities.

Key Project Activities Include:

• Teaching or training
• Developing curricula or educational materials
• Institutional planning
• Building the capacity of faculty, administrators, or staff
• Delivering seminars or academic courses

As we approach the United States’ 250th anniversary of independence in 2026, Fulbright has implemented new guidelines for the U.S. Specialist programs. All project proposals are being asked to incorporate themes that align with the America 250 celebration. 

Projects that integrate America 250 themes will be prioritized. Possible topics include, but are not limited to: 

• American studies (society, values, cultural traditions) 
• American history (Declaration of Independence, constitutional studies, federalism, military history, regional/local history) 
• Political science (U.S. government, American political thought) 
• Law (constitutional law) 
• Philosophy (founding-era political thought, civic virtues) 
• Religious studies (religious liberty and American religious history) 
• Education (teaching American history, civics) 
• Public policy / leadership (U.S. foreign policy, American global leadership) 
• Business and economics 
• Cultural heritage preservation 
• Building capacity for U.S. historical research and documentation 
• American values and their global impact 
• Cross-cultural dialogue about American values and their global impact 

Such projects may involve collaboration with American studies programs, historical societies, cultural institutions, or civic organizations to deepen understanding of American history and democracy. 

Alternatively, or in addition to the above, host institutions may integrate America 250 programming into existing or future projects by adding community engagement activities, such as: 

• Lectures highlighting American excellence or the U.S.’s global contributions in the Specialist’s field 
• Events at the host institution focused on America 250 themes 
• Partnering with American Corners or the U.S. Embassy to contribute to celebratory initiatives 
• Outreach activities at local schools or community organizations 
• Other creative activities aligned with America 250 goals