Organizer Information
The British Academy, established in 1902, serves as the United Kingdom’s national academy for the humanities and social sciences, boasting a fellowship of over 1,400 premier academics. By investing in researchers, engaging the public, and influencing policy, the Academy mobilizes these critical disciplines to understand the world and shape a brighter future. As part of this mission, the British Academy International Fellowships are jointly run with the Royal Society, merging the expertise of the UK’s leading institutions across the arts, humanities, and sciences to foster a globally connected and highly skilled research workforce.
Title & Description
International Fellowships 2026
This prestigious program enables outstanding early-career researchers from around the world to work for two years at a UK institution. The fellowship aims to attract emerging talent to the UK, supporting high-quality, innovative research and providing a first step toward an independent research career. Fellows are expected to undertake original research while gaining international experience and cross-border collaboration. Beyond the research focus, the program emphasizes the transfer of skills, knowledge, and long-term relationship building through an extensive alumni network.
Categories
- Research: High-quality, original research in the humanities and social sciences.
- Art History & Culture: Academic study of visual arts, history, and cultural heritage.
- Literature & Writing: Advanced scholarly research in literary fields.
- Multiple Disciplines: Interdisciplinary studies across the humanities and social sciences.
- Fellowship: Professional academic development and training.
Eligibility
- International: Open to researchers currently working outside the UK.
- Non-UK Citizens: Applicants must not hold UK citizenship.
- Early-Career: No more than five years of active full-time postdoctoral experience at the time of application.
- Education: Must hold a PhD (or have it completed/viva finished by June 1, 2026).
- Language: Must be competent in oral and written English.
- Sponsorship: Requires a clearly defined research proposal agreed upon with a UK host researcher at a UK institution.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Duration: A 24-month (two-year) award.
- Stipend/Salary: Offered at 80% Full Economic Cost (FEC) for the duration of the fellowship.
- Research Expenses: Up to £12,000 to cover research-related costs.
- Relocation Costs: Up to £8,000 for moving expenses to the UK.
- Networking: Access to the International Fellowships alumni program and follow-on alumni funding.
- Training: Opportunities to acquire new skills and career development within a top-tier UK host institution.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Research Proposal: A detailed, mutually beneficial plan agreed upon with a UK host.
- CV: Professional academic resume highlighting publications and research experience.
- PhD Proof: Documentation of PhD status or impending completion.
- Reference Letters: Support from the host researcher and other academic referees.
- Personal Info: Standard contact and demographic data via the Flexi-Grant system.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Opens: 15 January 2026
- Application Deadline: 11 March 2026
- PhD Completion Deadline: 1 June 2026
- Earliest Start Date: 1 October 2026
Location
United Kingdom
Additional Details
Applicants should consult the official "Scheme Notes" and FAQs carefully, as the British Academy has implemented changes for the 2026 round. The fellowship is highly competitive and favors researchers who show the potential to become leaders in their respective fields.