British Council UK 90th Anniversary Fellowship 2027 (Fully Funded)
The British Council UK 90th Anniversary Fellowship 2027 is now open for international researchers and scholars from eligible countries worldwide. Hosted by University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom, this fully funded fellowship celebrates the 90th anniversary of the British Council by supporting academic collaboration, interdisciplinary research, and global cultural exchange.
The fellowship is designed for researchers in the humanities and social sciences who wish to conduct independent research while engaging with the academic community at the University of Edinburgh. Selected fellows will spend ten months in Edinburgh and an additional two months in their home countries working in collaboration with the British Council.
The programme will begin in January 2027 and offers financial support covering living expenses, travel, research facilities, and academic engagement opportunities.
Fellowship Summary
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Fellowship Location: Edinburgh
- Host Institution: University of Edinburgh
- Fellowship Type: Fully Funded Fellowship
- Duration: 12 Months
- Fellowship Start Date: January 2027
- Application Deadline: 31 July 2026
About the Fellowship
The British Council UK 90th Anniversary Fellowship supports international scholars conducting advanced research in humanities, social sciences, and interdisciplinary studies.
The programme aims to promote:
- International academic collaboration
- Cultural exchange
- Interdisciplinary research
- Global scholarly engagement
- Research partnerships between fellows and the British Council
Fellows will become part of the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH) research community at the University of Edinburgh and gain access to university resources, libraries, and academic events
Degree Level
- Fellowship
Available Subjects
The fellowship supports projects in the following fields:
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Cultural Studies
- Literature
- History
- Politics
- Philosophy
- Media and Communication
Interdisciplinary research projects are also encouraged.
Benefits
The fellowship provides comprehensive financial support to selected participants.
Benefits include:
- Monthly stipend of £2,500
- International travel expenses
- Access to university libraries and research facilities
- Dedicated workspace and desk facilities
- Weekly fellows’ lunches and networking activities
- Visits and collaboration opportunities with British Council offices
- Academic support and scholarly engagement opportunities
Eligible Nationalities
Applicants must belong to countries eligible for Official Development Assistance (ODA). Some eligible countries include:
- Pakistan
- India
- Bangladesh
- Nigeria
- Kenya
- Egypt
- South Africa
- Sri Lanka
- Nepal
- Indonesia
Many additional countries are also eligible under the ODA-recipient list.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be from an eligible ODA-recipient country
- Must hold a PhD or equivalent research experience
- Must have completed the doctorate before applying
- Must demonstrate a strong academic and research background
- Must propose an independent research project
- Must be available to stay in Edinburgh during the fellowship period
Researchers with strong interdisciplinary interests and international collaboration experience are encouraged to apply.
Application Procedure
Candidates must apply online through the official IASH fellowship application portal.
Application steps generally include:
- Prepare the required documents
- Develop a detailed research proposal
- Complete the online application form
- Upload supporting materials
- Arrange confidential references
- Submit the application before the deadline
Applicants are encouraged to review all eligibility requirements and programme guidelines carefully before applying.
Required Documents
Applicants typically need to submit:
- Completed application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal
- Cover letter
- Two or three confidential reference letters
Applicants should ensure all documents are carefully prepared before submission.
Why This Fellowship Is Important
The British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship offers researchers a valuable opportunity to work within one of the UK’s leading academic environments while building international research networks.
The programme not only supports independent research but also encourages cultural dialogue and long-term academic partnerships between scholars and institutions worldwide.
For researchers in humanities and social sciences, the fellowship provides a rare opportunity to focus entirely on research with substantial financial and institutional support.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the British Council UK 90th Anniversary Fellowship 2027 is 31 July 2026.
