The University of Iowa and Grinnell College are two of the nation’s top producers of Fulbright scholars over the last 10 years, according to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
The Fulbright program, founded in 1946 by U.S. Sen. J. William Fulbright, is a cultural exchange syndicate that allows students, scholars, and professionals to teach, conduct research, study, or exercise other talents abroad, funded through scholarships and grants.
In its 79-year history, Fulbright remains one of the most prestigious scholarship programs in the United States. The University of Iowa has produced 335 Fulbright U.S. student awardees. In the 2025-26 academic year, 18 UI students and alumni received Fulbright awards. Twenty-three of 32 applicants for the 2026-2027 year made it to the second round of consideration…