UK Awards - Applying FAQs

Q: What exactly should I do to prepare before beginning my application?
A: Read the webpage for the award category to which you intend to apply, including the Terms and Conditions.  We also recommend making full use of the Fulbright Commission’s Advisory Service as you do your research into suitable programmes.  The advisory services is a certified branch of the educationUSA network and is partially-funded by the US government to provide free information and advice on all aspects of US education to the UK public.

Q: I’ve found the application. Are there any special rules for completing it?
A:  Make sure that all elements of your application – including references – are  typed. None of the questions are “trick” questions; we just want honest answers to the questions we ask. Read the questions carefully and fill in the form according to the application instructions. Not every section will apply to you (eg ‘publications’ or ‘teaching experience’). If it does not apply then write “Not Applicable” or ‘N/A’ so that we know you have not overlooked it.

Q: What exactly do you mean by extra-curricular activities?
A: List all the things you have done or achieved while at university or since, for example if you were active in your Student Union, founded a society or mentored younger students. For candidates already in a profession, an example might be running a social action group, eg soup kitchens for the homeless or a leader of a youth club, or organising sporting activities, etc. Candidates who devote much spare time to the practice of their subject (eg music or art) will not be penalised for having a majority of their activities related to that subject, but they are expected to demonstrate leadership skills and initiative within their subject or in other ways.

Q: What do you want to see in my Statement of Purpose?
A: The Statement of Purpose is your opportunity to explain to the committee why you want to go to the US. If it is unclear and vague it is unlikely that you will be offered an interview.

Q: What do you want to see in the references?
A: You should ask people who know you very well; preferably those who can comment on your academic ability as well as your character and interests. Draw your references attention to the guidelines at the top of the form. We also recommend that your referees read your statement of purpose. The selection committee wants evidence that you have attained a high academic standard and, where applicable, evidence of excellence in the workplace is also useful. Where possible one reference should come from a supervisor of your academic work, and another should come from a supervisor of your non-academic work (eg employment, extracurricular activities or volunteering).  References must be typed and contain contact details for the authour.

Q: I am a new graduate and am “temping” at the moment. Should my employer send a reference?
A: No. If the work you are doing is not directly relevant to your application and/or career plans, you should arrange for references from someone else.

Q: Which standardised tests are required for the Fulbright application?
A: For the Fulbright application, none.  As a general rule the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) examinations are required for entrance onto postgraduate courses at American universities, however, there are many exceptions. The Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) is required for admission consideration for most Business Administration (MBA) programmes.

Q: The online application system has prompted me to get permission from the Fulbright Commission before I proceed.  What should I do?
A: Normally, this message is intended to ensure that you meet the minimum eligibility requirements, have read the Terms and Conditions of the award category to which you are applying, and understand the application process.  If you follow the instructions on this website whilst making your application, you do not need to contact the Commission; you may proceed with your application.

Q: What happens after I submit my application?
A: We will typically contact you 2 weeks before the interview date to let you know if your papers have been passed to the interview panel for further review. Details of the individual award categories' interview dates can be found on their respective pages.

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