AMIDEAST recommends a multi-stage process in which applicants are first screened by Embassy staff to see that they meet minimum eligibility requirements such as:

• Citizenship (dual U.S. citizenship is a disqualifying factor)
• Bachelors degree
• Submission of complete application by deadline
• Minimum 550 on ITP or other EL test score if required in advance
• Other country-specific criteria

In the second stage, copies of applications with objective scoring criteria are distributed to each member of the panel for individual review and scoring. If the scoring is based on a 1 - 5 scale, 1 being poor or not recommended and 5 being superior, then only those applicants who attain at least a 3 or 4 average are invited to interview. If there is not a consensus among the panel, then two things might occur: 1) anyone attaining a 3 or 4 or higher is invited to interview, or 2) the panel averages the individual scores from each panelist and invites only those who came out with at least a 3 or 4. Objective review of applications by the panel should consider the following factors:

• English language skills as demonstrated by test scores or quality of written application and essays
• Academic excellence as demonstrated by undergraduate record and recommendations
• Relevance of academic or professional background to proposed field of study
• Evidence of leadership / potential for leadership
• Typed, neat, error-free application
• Graduate entrance exam scores (GRE or GMAT) if required in advance

The final stage involves the interview and panelists may assess the candidates by asking a set of pre-determined questions and ranking the responses on a scale of 1-5. The interview score would then be considered in addition to the application review scores. To ensure fairness, each candidate should be asked the same set of questions with the opportunity for follow-up questions if time permits. Each interview should last for approximately 20 minutes. Final selection is made by averaging the individual panelists application and interview scores. Interview criteria may include:

• Oral English language skills
• Ability to articulate reasons for pursuing chosen field of study in the US
• Recognizes the benefit of field of study to home country development
• Would be a model representative of his/her country in the US
• Evidence of adaptability

Sample Standardized Questions

1. Why do you wish to pursue x degree/graduate study in y field of study and why do you think it especially important to do so in the US?
2. What are your career goals and how will study in the US help you achieve them?
3. Upon completion of your Fulbright program, how would you plan to implement what you have learned in your home country?
4. How will your studies benefit your country?
5. A primary purpose of the Fulbright Program is to increase mutual understanding between peoples of the United States and other countries. If selected, what would you do to help Americans better understand the people and culture of your country?
6. Tell the panel about a situation where you had to adapt to a new environment or unfamiliar situation, and how you handled it (overseas study or a new academic or work situation, for example)?
7. What do you think will be the most difficult aspect of adjusting to life in the US?