The British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for researchers from developing countries to engage in advanced study at the University of Edinburgh. This fully funded fellowship, a collaboration between the British Council and the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH), aims to foster research that aligns with the British Council’s vision of a more peaceful and prosperous world built on trust. The program provides substantial financial support and access to academic resources, making it an attractive prospect for eligible candidates.
Fellowship Overview
The British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship is designed to support individuals undertaking research projects. The fellowship is hosted at the University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom and is open to applicants from developing countries. It is a fully funded program, meaning it covers a range of expenses to allow fellows to focus entirely on their research. The fellowship period typically involves time spent at IASH, followed by a phase dedicated to knowledge exchange and dissemination.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship, candidates must meet specific criteria. A primary requirement is that applicants must be from an ODA-recipient country, and a full list of these countries is available for review. Furthermore, applicants must have already been awarded a doctorate or possess equivalent research experience at the time of application. A strong academic background is essential, and candidates are expected to propose an independent research project that they can carry out during their fellowship. The ability to spend the fellowship period in Edinburgh is also a key requirement.
Fellowship Benefits
The British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship offers significant benefits to its recipients. The fellowship duration is structured to allow for both in-depth research and practical application of findings. Fellows will spend the initial ten months at IASH, immersing themselves in the academic environment. The subsequent period, up to two months, is dedicated to knowledge exchange and dissemination, often involving collaboration with the British Council.
Financially, the fellowship provides a monthly stipend of £2,500, which helps cover living expenses. In addition to the stipend, travel expenses are covered. Fellows also gain access to desk space and library resources at IASH, along with academic mentoring. The program encourages close engagement with the British Council, including visits to UK offices. A unique aspect is the option for fellows to spend time in a British Council office within their home country as part of the knowledge exchange component, further connecting their research to practical impact.
Required Application Documents
Prospective applicants must prepare a set of documents for their fellowship application. These typically include a completed application form, a Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing academic and professional experience, and a well-defined research proposal. A cover letter is also required, allowing candidates to express their interest and suitability for the fellowship. Additionally, applicants need to provide confidential references, with a minimum of two and a maximum of three expected.
Application Process
The application process for the British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship is managed through the official IASH fellowship portal. Interested and qualified candidates should navigate to the scholarship webpage via the provided link. Once on the portal, they will be guided through the online application system. It is advisable to carefully review all instructions and requirements before submitting the application to ensure all necessary information and documents are included. The deadline for applications is July 31, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship?
You must be from an ODA-recipient country and have a doctorate or equivalent research experience by the time you apply.
What does the fellowship cover?
It is fully funded, covering a monthly stipend of £2,500, travel expenses, desk space, and library resources at IASH.
How long does the fellowship last?
The fellowship typically involves ten months of research at IASH, followed by up to two months for knowledge exchange.
Where can I apply for the fellowship?
Applications are managed through the official IASH fellowship portal, accessible via their scholarship webpage.
