US South Pacific Scholarship Program
US South Pacific Scholarship Program supports Pacific island citizens’ degree study at the University of Hawai‘i to address regional development needs and deepen understanding of the United States.
Funder: East-West Center
Due Dates: September 2, 2026 (Opening) | January 15, 2027 (Closing) | January 16, 2027 (Application portal deadline)
Funding Amounts: Study, travel, and living expenses; bachelor’s support up to four years, master’s pathway typically two–three years
Summary: Supports Pacific island citizens pursuing University of Hawai‘i degrees relevant to regional development while deepening their understanding of the United States.
Key Information: Recipients must qualify for a J-1 visa and return home for the two-year home residency requirement.
Description
The US South Pacific Scholarship Program is a competitive, merit-based educational exchange administered by the East-West Center. Authorized by the US Congress and funded by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, it supports bachelor’s and master’s degree study at the University of Hawai‘i in fields directly relevant to Pacific island development needs.
Priority fields include agriculture, business, communication/journalism, education, environmental studies, gender studies, NGO management, political science, public administration, public health, and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Related fields may also qualify. Alongside academic study, participants gain a broader understanding of the United States through mentoring, cultural enrichment, leadership activities, host family and volunteer service opportunities, and a possible follow-on summer internship.
