Established in 1946 under legislation introduced by then-Arkansas Senator J. William Fulbright, the program aims to promote mutual understanding between the people of the U.S. and other nations through educational exchange.

Since its inception more than 75 years ago, the Fulbright Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, awards approximately 8,000 grants annually.

Currently, the program operates in over 140 countries, supporting around 1,600 U.S. students, 4,000 foreign students, 1,200 U.S. scholars, and 900 visiting scholars annually. More than 400,000 individuals, known as "Fulbrighters," have participated in the program since it began.

To apply, candidates must complete the original application in English through the Fulbright Applicant Information Form site.

Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree from a university or its equivalent, making them eligible for graduate studies at a U.S. university. Proficiency in English is also required.

Fields of study eligible for the Fulbright Program include social sciences, natural sciences, arts, humanities, natural resource management, sustainable development, computer science, engineering, and mathematics. Priority will be given to applicants specializing in teaching English, international trade, public administration, economics, U.S. culture, literature, and history.

Applicants must provide complete academic records that reflect all courses taken at universities or colleges attended.

Those selected as Fulbright scholars must agree to return to Costa Rica and live there for at least two years after completing their program.

For more information on the open application period for the Fulbright Program, interested individuals may contact the embassy at (506) 2519-2000 or email sanjosefulbright@state.gov