The Fulbright Specialist Program will offer Tunisian institutions the chance to host American academics and professionals in 2026, marking the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. The initiative is designed to promote collaboration and expertise in areas that reflect American values.
Eligible host institutions include higher education establishments, government agencies, courts, parliamentary bodies, cultural organizations such as museums or conservatories, and non-governmental organizations like think tanks. Other types of institutions may also apply.
Projects should align with the America 250 theme and can focus on subjects such as American studies, history, political science, military studies, constitutional law, philosophy, religious studies, education, public policy and leadership studies, U.S. foreign policy, American global leadership, business and economics, cultural heritage preservation, capacity building for historical research and documentation about the United States, American values and their impact globally, as well as cross-cultural dialogue about these values.
Host institutions are encouraged to design projects that address their specific needs but must ensure an educational or training focus. Typical activities include workshops tailored to specific audiences; consulting on faculty or workforce development; developing curricula; lecturing at graduate or undergraduate levels; and conducting program assessments.
All exchanges must last between 14 and 42 days. Proposals should feature a lecture or event highlighting America’s history or excellence. Specialists will also be invited to engage with audiences at American spaces in Tunisia. Projects must take place between January 1 and December 31 of 2026.
Institutions may propose multi-visit projects if justified by their objectives. These projects can include up to three visits within one year by the same specialist but cannot exceed a total of six weeks (42 days).
Institutions do not need to identify a specific Fulbright Specialist before applying; World Learning can match suitable candidates from its roster. If a preferred candidate is identified by the institution itself, approval from both the U.S. Embassy in Tunis and the Fulbright Program is required. More information about this process is available at http://fulbrightspecialist.worldlearning.org.
The U.S. Department of State generally covers international airfare for specialists along with health benefits enrollment and a daily honorarium. Host institutions are expected to provide lodging, meals, and local transportation either through direct payment or in-kind contributions.
Project proposals must be submitted online via World Learning’s portal (https://worldlearning-community.force.com/FSPHost) before September 21, 2025. Only fully completed proposals will be reviewed for consideration.
For questions regarding applications or program details, interested parties should contact TunisExchangesHelp@state.gov with "SPECIALIST" included in the subject line.