The United States Government has officially announced the opening of applications for the prestigious Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program for the 2027–2028 academic year. The fully funded professional exchange program offers accomplished mid-career professionals an opportunity to spend an academic year in the United States engaging in graduate-level, non-degree study, leadership development, and professional collaboration.

Administered through the U.S. Department of State, the Humphrey Fellowship Program aims to strengthen international partnerships by bringing emerging leaders and policymakers to the United States to enhance their professional expertise, broaden their perspectives, and build lasting connections with American counterparts.

In Ethiopia, the recruitment process is being coordinated by the Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Embassy.

About the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is designed for experienced professionals who have demonstrated leadership potential and a strong commitment to public service.

Unlike traditional academic scholarships, the fellowship focuses on professional enrichment through:

• Graduate-level academic study

• Leadership and professional development

• Networking opportunities

• Professional affiliations and collaborations

• Exposure to U.S. society, culture, and institutions

The program seeks to equip participants with the skills, knowledge, and global perspectives needed to address challenges within their respective sectors and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Eligible Fields of Study

Applicants must be working in one of the following professional fields:

• Communications and Journalism

• Law and Governance

• Natural Resources Policy

• Public and Economic Policy

• Public Health Policy and Management

• Technology Policy and Management

Candidates from both the public and private sectors are encouraged to apply, provided they meet the fellowship’s eligibility requirements.

Benefits of the Fellowship

Selected fellows will spend an academic year in the United States participating in a comprehensive professional and academic experience that includes:

• Non-degree graduate-level study

• Leadership development training

• Professional networking opportunities

• Collaboration with U.S. institutions and experts

• Cultural exchange experiences

• Exposure to innovative policy and management practices

The fellowship is designed to help participants strengthen their leadership capabilities while developing practical solutions to challenges facing their communities and countries.

Application Requirements

Interested applicants must submit their applications online and provide the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining qualifications and professional experience

• A detailed program plan describing the objectives they hope to achieve through participation

• Complete responses to all application questions and essay prompts in English

• Two recommendation letters, including one from the applicant’s current employer

• Official undergraduate academic transcripts in English

• Diplomas for postgraduate qualifications where applicable

Applicants are advised to carefully follow all application instructions and ensure that supporting documents are submitted before the deadline.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Humphrey Fellowship Program, applicants must meet several strict requirements.

Eligible candidates must:

• Be working in the public or private sector

• Demonstrate leadership ability and commitment to public service

• Be between 32 and 45 years old

• Hold a university degree equivalent to a four-year bachelor’s degree

• Have at least five years of full-time professional experience after graduation

• Hold management or policy-related responsibilities

• Obtain organizational approval for a leave of absence during the fellowship period

• Demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English

• Be willing to take the TOEFL examination if selected

• Be citizens or permanent residents eligible to hold an Ethiopian passport

• Commit to returning home for at least two years after completing the fellowship

The program seeks individuals who are committed to applying the knowledge and skills gained during the fellowship to benefit their communities and contribute to national development.

Ineligible Applicants

Certain applicants are not eligible to participate in the program.

These include individuals who:

• Have attended graduate school in the United States for one academic year or more

• Have participated in a U.S. Government-sponsored exchange program within the last three years

Prospective applicants should review all eligibility requirements carefully before submitting their applications.

Strengthening Future Leaders

The Humphrey Fellowship Program has a long-standing reputation for developing influential leaders across a wide range of sectors. Alumni of the program have gone on to occupy senior leadership positions in government, academia, civil society, healthcare, media, and the private sector.

By fostering professional growth and international collaboration, the fellowship contributes to stronger institutional capacity and sustainable development worldwide.

Application Deadline

Applications for the 2027–2028 Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program must be submitted online no later than:

19 July 2026

Applicants should note that accompanying family members are not permitted under the fellowship program.

For questions regarding the application process, candidates may contact the U.S. Embassy through the designated exchange programs office.

Conclusion

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program offers a unique opportunity for experienced professionals to enhance their leadership skills, expand their professional networks, and gain valuable international experience in the United States. For qualified Ethiopian professionals seeking to advance their careers while contributing to positive change in their communities, the fellowship represents a significant opportunity for professional and personal growth.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.