Host Universities

Humphrey Fellows build connections between U.S. and foreign leaders to advance solutions to the most pressing global challenges, from combatting climate change to protecting human rights, increasing access to education, and building global health security.

They hold leadership positions in local, municipal, and national governments, as well as in business and non-profit sectors. Humphrey Fellows have lasting impacts on their communities upon their return, applying knowledge and skills acquired through their Fellowships to effect broad change across their organizations and fields of expertise.

Humphrey host universities are selected through a competitive application process to participate in the Program for a five-year cycle. Competitions are organized annually and determined by fields of study. Selection is based on the institution’s ability to develop specialized non-degree, interdisciplinary programs for a diverse group of 12-15 international Fellows. Both public and private institutions have participated in the program over the years.

Each summer, IIE solicits proposals from a broad range of institutions through a request for proposal (RFP) document. The RFP outlines guidance on the Program’s selection criteria and required documents. Before the deadline, IIE receives questions in writing and posts the complete Q&A online. Final proposals are generally due to IIE in the Fall. Specific deadlines for proposals will be outlined for each RFP.