Fulbright FLTA Program 2025-26: Teach, Learn, and Experience U.S. Culture

Overview:

The Fulbright FLTA Program is a prestigious, non-degree, cultural exchange Program sponsored (funded) by the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). The Program gives early-career English teachers and educators of other languages, from around the world, the opportunity to develop teaching skills as foreign language teaching assistants at accredited colleges and universities throughout the UNITED STATES.

Objective:

The Fulbright FLTA program is designed to achieve two primary goals:

• To provide assistance and to strengthen US foreign language education, and
• To provide opportunities for young international educators to improve teaching skills, practice and improve their English language skills, and participate in American academic and cultural life.

Organizers:

The Program is administered by the Institute of International Education (IIE) on behalf of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) of the U.S. Department of State.

Key Features and Benefits of the Fulbright FLTA Program:

Program timeframe:

• The fellowship lasts one academic year (9-10 months) and is not renewable.

Teaching & Learning activities:

• FLTAs aid in the teaching of their native language (e.g. Arabic, Japanese, Spanish, etc), support activities in the classroom, and take at least two academic courses per semester at their U.S. host institution.

Cultural engagement:

• Participants act as cultural ambassadors representing their home country, as well as introducing and fostering international collaboration by leading language clubs, giving cultural presentations, and participation in local community events.

Professional growth:

• The program provides countless opportunities for the enhancement of innovative teaching methods, improving English communication, and building a global network for future collaboration.

Eligibility Requirements

To participate in Fulbright’s Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA) program, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Nationality and Residency

• Must be a citizen and resident of a country that participates in the Fulbright FLTA program for the whole application and selection process.

Education

• Must have at least a bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) in English, Education, Language Studies, or a related field. We encourage recent graduates, early-career teachers, and people who have recently been in the workforce to apply.

Experience

• Experience with language teaching or education is preferred but not essential. Applicants must demonstrate a strong interest in teaching their native language and culture.

Proficiency in English

• To meet the host university’s standards for proficiency testing (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.), applicants must demonstrate a proficiency level in English.

Age and Background

• Typically designed for young professionals under the age of 30, eligibility at this level differs between countries.

Application Process for the Fulbright FLTA Program

Here is a step-by-step procedure for applying for the Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA) Program:

How to Apply

All applications are submitted online through the Fulbright FLTA application portal.

1. Verify Local Eligibility:

To confirm your eligibility and find out about local guidelines, reach out to the Fulbright Commission in your home country or to the U.S. Embassy.

2. Create an Account:

If you are able to submit an application via your country's program page, then you will need to complete the account registration via the Fulbright FLTA online portal.

3. Complete Application Form:

Complete the entire online application form, including personal information, academic history, work and teaching experience, and languages available.

4. Submit Required Documents:

- Copies of degree certificates and transcripts

- Updated CV (curriculum vitae)

- Personal statement and statement of purpose

- Letters of recommendation

- English language test score (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS).

5. Review and Submit:

Make sure to review all details and documents for completeness before submitting your application via the Fulbright FLTA online portal.

6.Timing:

Important Dates vary by country. The application period usually falls between February and October.

Selection and Placement Process – Fulbright FLTA Program

The Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA) program has a competitive selection as well as a structured placement process:

Selection Criteria:

• Academic History: Strong academic background. The candidate's qualifications must be relevant.
• Teaching Experience: Prior classroom experience is considered more valuable than formal training in teaching.
• Language Expertise:Candidates must demonstrate high levels of English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
• Ability to Perform Cultural Exchange: Willingness and ability to act as a cultural ambassador and engage in community activities in the U.S.

Placement Process:

The Institute of International Education (IIE) enjoys discretional placements at a U.S. college or university.

Placement is limited to:

• language demand,
• institutional preferences,
• the applicants' background, and
• experience.

FLTA Requirements:

• Teaching Requirements: Teach your native language (20 hours/week maximum).
• Cultural Exchange: Conduct language labs, conversation tables, represent your culture through an event.
• Coursework: FLTA’s will take at least two (2) U.S. academic courses each semester. This coursework will benefit the FLTA’s teaching, culture engagement, and language skills development.

Requirements of Host Institutions – Fulbright FLTA Program

All U.S. colleges and universities hosting Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistants (FLTAs) must ensure that they can successfully host FLTAs and provide a mutually beneficial exchange experience.

1. Tuition Waiver Requirements

The host institution must waive tuition and mandatory fees for FLTA participant's enrollment in at least two (2) academic courses per semester.

Related to and appropriate for FLTA's academic and professional development.

2. Teaching Responsibilities

The host institution should assign the FLTA teaching or assistantship duties ranging up to 20 hours per week. Including but not limited to:

• Classroom teaching
• Conversation practicums
• Language labs
• Office hours/tutoring sessions
• The host institution should provide direct supervision and academic tutelage to the FLTA which should be assigned by a faculty or from department advisors.

3. Application Requirement

• All interested U.S. institutions must submit an application to become host institutions for the FLTA by the annual deadline now available.

For example, February 28, 2025, for the 2025–2026 academic year.

• The application process should outline the institution's commitment to facilitating cultural exchange, available mentorship opportunities, and a concrete academic plan for the FLTA.

Important Dates and Deadlines

Below are the important dates and deadlines for the Fulbright FLTA Program: