British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship: A Gateway for Global Research

The British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for researchers from developing countries to engage in impactful work at the University of Edinburgh. This fully funded fellowship aims to foster a more peaceful and prosperous world through research and knowledge exchange. The program supports independent research projects aligned with the British Council’s strategic vision, providing fellows with financial assistance, academic resources, and collaborative opportunities.

Fellowship Overview

The British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship is a collaborative initiative between the British Council and the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH) at the University of Edinburgh. Launched to celebrate the British Council’s 90th anniversary, this fellowship is designed to support research that contributes to global understanding and cooperation. It is open to individuals from ODA-recipient countries who hold a doctorate or possess equivalent research experience. The fellowship provides a comprehensive package to ensure fellows can focus on their research and academic development.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship, candidates must meet specific requirements. The primary criterion is that applicants must be from an ODA-recipient country. A full list of eligible countries is available for review. Additionally, applicants must have earned a doctorate by the time they submit their application or demonstrate substantial research experience equivalent to a PhD. A strong academic record is essential, and candidates must propose an independent research project that aligns with the fellowship’s objectives. The ability to spend the fellowship period in Edinburgh is also a prerequisite.

Fellowship Benefits and Duration

The British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship offers significant benefits to its recipients. The fellowship has a duration of twelve months. Fellows will spend the initial ten months at IASH in Edinburgh, immersing themselves in a vibrant academic community. The remaining two months are dedicated to knowledge exchange and dissemination activities, often conducted in the fellows’ home countries in collaboration with the British Council.

During the fellowship, recipients will receive a monthly stipend of £2,500 to cover living expenses. Travel expenses to and from Edinburgh are also covered. Fellows will have access to desk space, library resources, and academic mentoring, fostering their research and professional growth. The program also includes opportunities for engagement with the British Council, including visits to UK offices and potential time spent in a British Council office in the fellow’s home country to facilitate knowledge exchange.

Application Process and Required Documents

Prospective applicants must carefully prepare their application materials to be considered for the British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship. The application process is managed through the official IASH fellowship portal. Key documents required for the application include a completed application form, a curriculum vitae (CV), a detailed research proposal, and a cover letter. Applicants must also arrange for confidential references, with a minimum of two and a maximum of three required. It is advisable to start the application process well in advance of the deadline to ensure all documents are submitted correctly and on time.

The deadline for applications is July 31, 2026. Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to visit the official scholarship webpage for detailed instructions and to access the application portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship?

It’s a fully funded fellowship for researchers from developing countries to conduct independent research at the University of Edinburgh, aiming to promote global understanding and cooperation.