The U.S. Embassy in Freetown has announced that applications are now being accepted for the prestigious Fulbright Foreign Student Program for the 2026-2027 academic year.

Aspiring scholars have until April 10, 2025, to submit their applications online. A key change this year is the move to a fully online application process, eliminating the need for applicants to submit physical documents to the Embassy or American Spaces.

The Fulbright program, funded by the U.S. government, offers young professionals in Sierra Leone the chance to pursue a master’s degree at a U.S. university. Successful candidates are expected to return to Sierra Leone after their studies and contribute to the nation’s development. The fellowship is highly competitive and awarded based on merit.

While TOEFL and GRE scores are welcomed at the initial application stage, they are not mandatory for shortlisting. Applicants can take these tests later if selected for an interview.

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To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Be a Sierra Leonean citizen currently residing in Sierra Leone.
  • Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with excellent academic results.
  • Possess at least five years of consecutive professional work experience.
  • Demonstrate exceptional academic and English language proficiency.
  • Achieve the minimum required scores on the TOEFL and GRE tests (to be taken after shortlisting).
  • Not be participating in the current DV lottery program or intend to immigrate permanently to the United States.

While all fields are open for application, with the exception of medicine and research involving clinical patient contact, studies in related areas like public health (with a theoretical research focus) are acceptable.

The Embassy particularly encourages applications from candidates working in Trade and Economics, Good Governance, Security, Public Health, and Public Administration.

Interested individuals are urged to apply online before the April 10th deadline.