Researchers from around the world are invited to apply for the IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship 2027, an outstanding fully funded international research fellowship hosted by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) at Leiden University in the Netherlands. This prestigious fellowship is designed for early-career and mid-career researchers, scholars, and professionals who are passionate about Asian Studies and interdisciplinary research.
The fellowship follows an innovative two-phase residency model that encourages global academic collaboration and cultural exchange. Fellows begin their research journey by spending three months at one of IIAS's international partner institutions before continuing with a six-month research residency at Leiden University. During the program, participants gain access to world-class academic resources, networking opportunities, workshops, and an international community of researchers.
If your research focuses on Asian Studies, humanities, cultural studies, social sciences, or interdisciplinary topics, this fellowship offers an excellent opportunity to expand your research network, collaborate with leading scholars, and contribute to global academic discussions.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Netherlands & Partner Host Countries |
| Host Institution | International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS), Leiden University |
| Program Type | International Research Fellowship |
| Duration | 9 Months |
| Phase 1 | 3 Months at a Partner Institution |
| Phase 2 | 6 Months at IIAS, Leiden University |
| Funding | Fully Funded (Category A) |
| Eligible Nationalities | All Countries |
| Research Fields | Asian Studies, Humanities, Cultural Studies, Social Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research |
| Application Deadline | 10 September 2026 |
Research Areas
Applicants are encouraged to submit research proposals that align with one or more of the following IIAS research themes:
- Cities
- The Politics of Culture
- Asia in the World
- Humanities Across Borders
- Knowledge Diplomacy in Action
- Interdisciplinary Asian Studies
- Cultural and Social Research
- Global Academic Collaboration
IIAS particularly welcomes innovative research projects that connect different disciplines and promote international partnerships.
Fellowship Benefits
Category A - Fully Funded Fellowship
Successful applicants selected under the fully funded category will receive:
- Monthly stipend of €1,250 during the six-month residency at Leiden University.
- Monthly housing allowance of €1,200 while staying in the Netherlands.
- Financial support from the partner institution during the first three-month research phase.
- International travel grant covering travel from the home country to the partner institution, travel from the partner institution to the Netherlands, and return flight after completing the fellowship.
- Visa support for both fellowship phases.
- Fully equipped office space at IIAS.
- Access to libraries, archives, seminar rooms, and research facilities.
- Participation in international workshops, conferences, lectures, and networking events.
- Opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers and academic institutions worldwide.
Categories B & C - Self-Funded Fellows
Applicants applying under the self-funded categories will receive:
- Visa assistance from Leiden University.
- Accommodation support.
- Access to IIAS research facilities.
- Office workspace and library access.
- Participation in seminars, workshops, conferences, and academic events.
- Opportunities to build international research collaborations.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements according to their selected fellowship category.
Category A - Fully Funded Academic Fellowship
- Hold a PhD degree or complete their PhD defense by September 2026.
- Apply under the fully funded fellowship category.
- Conduct research related to IIAS research themes.
Category B - Academic (Self-Funded)
- Hold a PhD degree or complete their PhD by September 2026.
- Secure external or personal funding covering the entire fellowship period.
Category C - Independent Professionals
Professionals from various fields are encouraged to apply, including journalists, writers, diplomats, policymakers, curators, independent researchers, and other experienced professionals. Applicants must demonstrate relevant professional achievements and secure funding for the fellowship period.
English Language Requirement
Applicants should have a good command of the English language because all academic activities, research collaboration, and communication throughout the fellowship will be conducted in English. While an IELTS score is not mandatory, applicants should be able to work effectively in an English-speaking academic environment.
Required Documents
- Completed online application form
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal aligned with IIAS research themes
- PhD certificate or proof of expected PhD completion (Academic applicants)
- List of publications (if applicable)
- Motivation letter or Statement of Purpose
- Proof of funding (Categories B & C)
- Any additional supporting documents requested by IIAS
How to Apply for the IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship 2027
- Visit the official IIAS fellowship website.
- Carefully read the eligibility requirements and fellowship guidelines.
- Select the appropriate fellowship category (Fully Funded or Self-Funded).
- Prepare all required application documents.
- Write a strong research proposal related to one or more IIAS research themes.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Review your application carefully before submission.
- Submit your application before the closing date.
Why You Should Apply
The IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship is one of the leading international research fellowships for scholars interested in Asian Studies. Beyond financial support, it provides an exceptional platform for academic growth, international networking, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Participants benefit from working with renowned researchers, accessing outstanding research facilities, presenting their work at seminars and conferences, and building long-term collaborations with institutions across multiple continents.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Develop a clear and original research proposal.
- Demonstrate how your research aligns with IIAS research themes.
- Highlight your academic achievements and publications.
- Explain the broader impact of your research.
- Submit all required documents before the deadline.
- Carefully proofread your application to avoid errors.
Application Deadline
Last Date to Apply: 10 September 2026
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Apply Now
Interested applicants can submit their applications through the official IIAS fellowship portal:
Official Application Link - IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship 2027 fully funded?
Yes. Applicants selected under Category A receive full financial support, including monthly stipends, housing allowance, travel funding, and visa assistance.
Who is eligible to apply?
Researchers and professionals from all nationalities are welcome to apply if they meet the eligibility requirements for their chosen fellowship category.
Is a PhD required?
Yes. Academic applicants must have completed a PhD or be expected to defend their dissertation by September 2026.
How long is the fellowship?
The fellowship lasts 9 months, including a three-month placement at a partner institution followed by a six-month residency at IIAS, Leiden University.
Can professionals outside academia apply?
Yes. Journalists, writers, diplomats, policymakers, curators, and other experienced professionals may apply under Category C (Self-Funded).
Is IELTS required?
No. IELTS is not a mandatory requirement; however, applicants should have a good working knowledge of English.
What research themes are supported?
Research proposals should relate to one or more IIAS themes, including Cities, The Politics of Culture, Asia in the World, Humanities Across Borders, and Knowledge Diplomacy in Action.
When is the application deadline?
The final date to submit applications is 10 September 2026.
