Fulbright Denmark Selection Criteria and Process

Fulbright Denmark is committed to a selection process that respects and protects academic freedom. Part of the selection process includes a national screening and review in Denmark. Our national selection is based on merit, academic quality, and the potential for cultural exchange.

However, final approval for Fulbright grants rests with the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board (FFSB) in the United States, which is appointed by the President of the United States. FFSB may be instructed to ensure that selected projects comply with executive orders issued by the U.S. President.

This means that even if a candidate is positively recommended by Fulbright Denmark, their project could still be declined at the U.S. approval stage due to non-compliance with current executive orders. Should such a situation occur, Fulbright Denmark will do its utmost to secure alternative funding for the affected candidate. Fulbright Denmark has no insight into these final decisions, but will share U.S. decisions directly with applicants and clearly communicate any remaining options for the applicant. We strongly encourage all applicants to contact us during the application process if they have concerns about whether their proposed research topic may fall within areas of contention. Our team is to some degree available to provide guidance and discuss potential implications.

• Project feasibility (well defined, realistic)
• Project objectives (new view, original approach)
• Level of project preparation (well structured, strong affiliation with host)
• Relevance of the host institution/need to conduct study or research abroad
• Academic background of the applicant (grades, publication activities, academic merit, etc.)
• Potential contribution to the development of the field/benefits for society
• Potential for multiplier-effect (continued collaboration between the applicant’s home and host institution)
• Potential for Fulbright and home country ambassadorship

If candidates have comparable qualities, preference will be given to candidates who have not previously had the opportunity to stay long-term in the U.S. or Denmark. An important aspect is also securing the disciplinary and local/geographical diversity of host/home institutions. Lastly, if two or more final candidates have comparable or equal qualities, preference can be given to candidates whose project topic is affiliated to one of Fulbright Denmark’s strategic areas.

Rejections made by Fulbright Denmark may generally be based on factors like ineligibility, incomplete application, lack of quality, feasibility issues etc.

1. Selection Based on Quality
   We will continue to base our nominations on academic excellence and the quality of the proposed project, without pre-screening for alignment with U.S. executive orders.
2. Applicant Advisory on Risks
   Applicants will be informed in advance that projects in certain areas may face a higher risk of rejection at the U.S. level. We will provide guidance on what these areas currently include, based on available information.
3. Transparency in National Process
   Our selection process will remain transparent as detailed below.
4. Alternative Funding Options
   In cases where U.S. approval is not granted, Fulbright Denmark will seek to secure alternative Commission-funded or partner-supported grants whenever possible. Alternative funding cannot be guaranteed.