USEFP denies rumours about the Fulbright scholarship ending, confirming the program remains active and applications are proceeding as normal.

Key Points:

1. USEFP Denies Fulbright Termination Rumors
   • The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) clarified that the Fulbright scholarship program is not terminated, despite concerns.
   • However, the Global UGRAD Pakistan Programme (a 15-year-old undergraduate exchange) was officially closed, disappointing many students.
2. Fulbright Program in Limbo Since February
   • The U.S. State Department suspended all cultural and academic exchanges under its Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).
   • Initially a 15-day freeze, the pause has extended over two months without explanation.
   • The Institute of International Education (IIE), which manages Fulbright, furloughed employees, raising concerns.
3. Current Fulbright Scholars Affected
   • Some scholars in the U.S. were notified that stipend payments may be delayed due to funding pauses.
   • However, USEFP assured that Fulbright participants still receive stipends and will not be stranded.
4. State Department Reviewing Exchange Programs
   • The U.S. is conducting a global review of exchange programs to align with current priorities.
   • USEFP promised updates as more information becomes available.
5. Commitment to U.S.-Pakistan Educational Ties
   • The U.S. hosts 11,000 Pakistani students and encourages continued academic exchanges.
   • 54 UGRAD students in the U.S. will complete their programs and receive all benefits as planned.
6. Fulbright’s Strong Legacy in Pakistan
   • Since 1951, over 4,000 Pakistanis have received Fulbright scholarships.
   • More than 9,300 Pakistanis and 935 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchanges.
7. Growing Concerns for Pakistani Students in the U.S.
   • Visa issues, regulatory hurdles, and political changes are causing anxiety.
   • Minor infractions (e.g., traffic violations) have led to visa complications for some students.
   • Some lost legal status without notification, as U.S. agencies no longer inform universities.

While the Fulbright program remains active, its suspension since February and the closure of Global UGRAD have raised concerns. USEFP reassures that current scholars will continue receiving support, but the lack of transparency from the U.S. government has heightened worries about future academic exchanges. Pakistani students in the U.S. face increasing visa and legal challenges, threatening long-standing educational ties between the two countries.