Application Deadline: July 8, 2026
The Hubert Humphrey Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications from accomplished mid-career professionals seeking to strengthen their leadership skills, expand their professional networks, and gain valuable international experience in the United States.
Funded by the U.S. government, the prestigious fellowship brings emerging leaders from eligible countries to the United States for a year of non-degree graduate-level study, professional development, and collaboration with American counterparts. The program is designed for professionals who are already making an impact in their fields and are ready to take their careers and leadership potential to the next level.
Unlike traditional scholarship programs, the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship does not lead to a master’s degree. Instead, fellows participate in a highly personalized academic and professional development experience that combines university-based learning, leadership training, networking opportunities, and practical workplace exposure.
Participants are placed at selected U.S. universities where they pursue individualized study programs aligned with their professional interests and career goals. Throughout the fellowship year, participants engage in conferences, workshops, professional visits, and specialized training activities designed to broaden their expertise and leadership capacity.
One of the most valuable aspects of the fellowship is the professional affiliation component, which allows fellows to spend at least six weeks working full-time with a relevant U.S. organization. This hands-on experience provides direct exposure to American institutions, best practices, and professional networks that often continue long after the fellowship ends.
The fellowship welcomes professionals working in a variety of fields, including:
- Communications and Journalism
- Law and Governance
- Natural Resources
- Public and Economic Policy
- Public Health Policy and Management
- Technology Policy and Management
Whether working in government, civil society, academia, media, healthcare, or the private sector, fellows are expected to contribute to positive change in their communities while building stronger international partnerships.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be Malawian citizens or permanent residents eligible to hold a valid Malawi passport.
- Hold at least a bachelor’s degree or a higher academic qualification.
- Have a minimum of five years of substantial professional experience in a relevant field.
- Demonstrate leadership ability and a strong record of public service.
- Hold management, policy, or decision-making responsibilities.
- Have little or no previous study or work experience in the United States.
- Show a strong interest in the policy dimensions of their professional field.
Preference may be given to applicants who have not studied abroad within the last five years.
You may also like: EERC Fellowship 2026 for Nigerian Researchers (Monthly Stipend)
Benefits
Selected fellows will receive an exceptional professional development experience in the United States, including:
- Placement at a leading U.S. host university
- Tailored academic and professional development activities
- Leadership and skills-building workshops
- Professional networking opportunities
- Participation in conferences and training programs
- A professional affiliation with a U.S. organization
- Exposure to American institutions, policies, and professional practices
- Access to a global network of Humphrey Fellows and leaders
Beyond the fellowship year, participants become part of a distinguished international alumni community that continues to collaborate on leadership, policy, and development initiatives around the world.
Application Process
Interested candidates must complete and submit their online application through the designated application portal. Applicants should carefully review all eligibility requirements and provide accurate information regarding their academic background, professional experience, leadership achievements, and public service contributions.
Early preparation is strongly encouraged, as competitive applications typically demonstrate a clear record of leadership, professional accomplishment, and commitment to creating positive impact.
How to Apply
For more details, visit Hubert Humphrey Fellowship.
