The Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA) Program offers early career English teachers a unique opportunity to enhance their skills and cultural understanding. This nine-month, non-degree program, funded by the U.S. Department of State, allows participants to teach Hindi and/or Urdu at U.S. colleges while refining their English proficiency and knowledge of American society.

Program Overview

The Fulbright FLTA Program is designed for early career English teachers at the college level or professionals in related fields. Selected fellows will serve as teaching assistants for their native language at U.S. institutions. This involves teaching up to two classes per semester and facilitating cultural events to promote cross-cultural understanding.

Participants are required to enroll in at least two courses per semester, with one focusing on U.S. Studies. This ensures a comprehensive understanding of American culture and values. The program aims to foster lasting connections between the U.S. and India.

Upon completion, FLTA alumni return to India with enhanced English proficiency and a deeper understanding of the United States. They are equipped to share their experiences and insights with their communities.

Grant Benefits and Expectations

The Fulbright FLTA program provides a valuable opportunity to refine teaching skills and enhance English language proficiency. Participants gain first-hand experience of U.S. society and culture. This experience strengthens foreign language instruction at U.S. colleges and universities.

FLTA fellows engage with host communities through conversation groups, extracurricular activities, and outreach projects. This interaction fosters cross-cultural understanding and builds lasting relationships. The program promotes mutual understanding between the U.S. and India.

It is important to note that the FLTA Program is non-degree and non-renewable. Participants must return to India upon completion of the program, and dependents are not allowed to accompany fellows.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Fulbright FLTA Program, applicants must meet specific criteria. These requirements ensure that selected fellows are well-prepared for the program's demands and can contribute effectively to cross-cultural exchange.

• Applicants must be citizens of India and residing in India throughout the application process.

• Candidates must demonstrate maturity, dependability, integrity, and professionalism.

• Fluency in English is mandatory, with a minimum score of 79 on the internet-based TOEFL required for recommended candidates (TOEFL to be taken in November 2025).

Indian applicants must hold at least a master’s degree by June 2026 in relevant fields such as English language, literature, or American Studies. Prior teaching experience is preferred, highlighting the program's focus on educators.

Application Process and Requirements

The application process involves several steps to ensure that candidates are thoroughly evaluated. Applicants should carefully review all requirements and deadlines to ensure a complete and timely submission.

Candidates recommended by the selection committee will be required to take the TOEFL exam in November 2025. USIEF will provide fee vouchers for the TOEFL exam. This ensures that all participants meet the required English proficiency level.

Material misrepresentation, such as plagiarism, at any stage of the application or grant period will result in selection withdrawal or grant termination. This underscores the importance of academic integrity.

Key Dates and Contact Information

Prospective applicants should be aware of the important dates and deadlines for the Fulbright FLTA Program. Staying informed ensures that all necessary steps are completed on time.

For any queries or assistance, applicants can contact the USIEF offices located in Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, and Mumbai. Contact details, including phone numbers and email addresses, are available on the USIEF website.

Please refer to the USIEF website for the application deadline and any updates to the program guidelines. Timely submission is crucial for consideration.