Fulbright Prize for International Understanding

Prize Selection Committee & Nomination Process

Fulbright Prize Laureates are chosen by a Selection Committee appointed by the Fulbright Association’s Board of Directors. This committee is composed of board members and a widely representative group of alumni, diplomats, and leaders from many sectors and from many countries. The Association solicits Prize nominations without restriction; nominators do not need to be Fulbright alumni or even members of the Association. Nominators provide their reasoning to support an individual, team of individuals or institutions to receive the Prize, and this is the basis for the discussion and ultimate decision by the Selection Committee.

Nominations are now Closed

Nominations for the 2025 J. William Fulbright Prize for International Understanding is now closed. The Fulbright Prize recognizes people and institutions that promote global cooperation and peace, inspire and lead positive change, and foster cultural understanding and respect.

Guidelines

The nomination form calls for a brief explanation for the nomination (100-word maximum).
Prize Laureates are chosen for their exceptional contributions in many fields; Individual Laureates do not have to be political leaders. They can be activists, diplomats, cultural figures, philanthropists, etc.
Nominees may be living individuals, a cohesive team or group of individuals, organizations, or institutions.
The Selection Committee will consider an individual nominee’s career and life in toto, but Laureates can be named for a singular accomplishment and can be any age. For nominations of organization and institutions, they will consider the wider body of work and reputation.
Nominees may come from anywhere in the world, and usually do not have an affiliation with the Fulbright Program; no Laureate to date has been a “Fulbrighter.”
Laureates must be available to attend a Prize event in person, where they will give a major address and participate in related activities.
You may not nominate yourself, a family member, employer, or employing institution.