Westernford17

Wow, thanks for all of the incredible input! 
 
Like I said, I really didn't have any idea how most MA programs run things - I was under the impression that masters theses, especially in a one year program, were actually pretty rare until my mentor said that. She said that she worked with a colleague that was forced to basically go and write a thesis since she hadn't already done that in her MA, but it sounds like that's pretty rare. Oh well. It just makes things easier!
 
 
Also, that's great news. I guess I hadn't really considered figuring it mathematically
 
It sounds like it's either Option 1 or 2 for me! (I'm leaning quite strongly towards 2)

To actually be speaking to everyone and not just directing your statement at me where you explicitly show believing me to be ineligible after saying I am. Do speculate anyone's eligibility.
Secret Ninja I suggest you consider altering your pronouns.

"If ...A PROSPECTIVE APPLICANT .... is already in their PROSPECTIVE COUNTRY at the time of applying HE/SHE will be ineligible."

Its important to speak broadly to the masses and that will help you avoid assumptions and accusations. You intended to provide clarity and reduce confusion FOR OTHERS so as such its best to adjust the use pronouns accordingly so your intent comes through in your message.

You got this aaaaall the wrong way sweet heart. I provided the NSF info for the individuals who were trying to fund their own degree. I never said I am applying I said I'm experienced with the lengthy process and referred to the past and provided them links for those without their masters. No you're not a Debbie downer, blunt is always better. However try not to make assumptions about me please. This excitability you claim I have is not what you have projected I am and since you don't know me try refraining from speculating about the person I am. Thank You

A quite deserving well done for you too, for paying better attention to what you're reading. The skill to read more carefully will help you in your future endeavors Secret Ninja.

I would not have posted that FULBRIGHT APPLICANTS DO NOT NEED AN INDEPENDENT PROJECT if it wasn't true and already confirmed with Fulbright a week ago.

I don't need to talk to Fulbright about this because it was already done and confirmed much before you suggested I speak to them. There are many avenues to Fulbright. Maybe consider expanding your breadth on the variety available would be a good idea.

You don't know where I will at the time I apply. Just because you have "many accolades" to your name does not mean you have no room to better yourself especially when based on your own mis-reading of something. This is not a debate and you have no business trying to make so many speculatory assumptions about me or anyone else for that matter. Think about your choice of words. You may have meant to provide clarity and prevent confusion for others but you instead directed your statement at me further demonstrating your presusumptions and mis-readings of perfectly clear information under the heading that refers to "funding your degree" not my degree, not my anything. You come off like you think you're a know it all but when you don't pay attention to what you read you will obviously lose credibility while others also see you clearly didn't read the heading above the links provided.
Work on your inquiry and reduce your assuming presumptions. Replace yourassuming statements with inquiry and your outcome will better match your intent which would "seem/appear" to be that you were wanting to be helpful. To avoid assuming statements you can at least try admitting that something "appears" a certain way to avoid accusing or assuming types of statements.