The U.S. Embassy is now accepting applications from Costa Ricans interested in studying in the United States through the Fulbright Program. Applications for postgraduate scholarships must be submitted by March 20, 2026.

Established in 1946 under legislation introduced by then-Arkansas Sen. J. William Fulbright, the program promotes mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other nations through educational exchange.

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the Fulbright Program awards approximately 8,000 grants annually. Since its inception more than 75 years ago, over 400,000 individuals, known as “Fulbrighters,” have participated.

The program operates in more than 160 countries and each year supports approximately 1,600 U.S. students, 4,000 international students, 1,200 U.S. scholars and 900 visiting scholars.

Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent, qualifying them for graduate-level study at a U.S. university. English proficiency is required.

They must submit a complete academic record reflecting all coursework completed at universities or colleges attended. The original application must be completed in English through the Fulbright Applicant Information Form website.

Selected scholars are required to return to Costa Rica and reside in the country for at least two years after completing their program.

Eligible fields of study include STEM disciplines (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) as well as English teaching, education, government and public administration, computer science, U.S. culture, history and literature. Additional priority areas include artificial intelligence, biotechnology, quantum computing and semiconductors.

For more information about the open application period, interested individuals may contact the U.S. Embassy at (506) 2519-2000 or email sanjosefulbright@state.gov

In related news, U.S. Ambassador Melinda Hildebrand formally assumed her duties in January after presenting her letters of credence to President Rodrigo Chaves.