The British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for researchers from developing countries to engage in impactful study at the University of Edinburgh. This fully funded program aims to support research that aligns with the British Council’s vision of fostering a more peaceful and prosperous world built on trust. The fellowship provides substantial financial support and access to academic resources, encouraging scholars to develop independent research projects with global relevance.
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 commemorate the British Council’s 90th anniversary, this fellowship is designed to support research that contributes to a more peaceful and prosperous world. It is open to individuals from developing countries who hold a doctorate or possess equivalent research experience. The program emphasizes independent research and knowledge exchange, with fellows spending a significant portion of their time at IASH and the remainder in their home countries.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship, candidates must meet specific criteria. Applicants must be from an ODA-recipient country, and a comprehensive list of eligible nations is available. A crucial requirement is that applicants must have been awarded a doctorate by the time they submit their application, or demonstrate equivalent research experience. A strong academic background is essential, and candidates must propose an independent research project that aligns with the fellowship’s objectives. Finally, the ability to spend the fellowship period in Edinburgh is a mandatory condition for participation.
Fellowship Benefits
The British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship offers a comprehensive package of benefits designed to support fellows throughout their research journey. The fellowship has a duration of ten months, with the initial period spent at IASH in Edinburgh. Following this, fellows have up to two months to dedicate to knowledge exchange and dissemination activities in their home countries, working in collaboration with the British Council.
The financial rewards include a monthly stipend of £2,500, which helps cover living expenses. Travel expenses to and from Edinburgh are also covered. Fellows receive desk space and access to the extensive library resources at the University of Edinburgh. They also benefit from academic mentoring within the vibrant scholarly community of visiting fellows at IASH. Furthermore, fellows are expected to engage closely with the British Council, including visits to its UK offices. The program also allows for fellows to spend time in a British Council office in their home country as part of the knowledge exchange component.
Application Process and Required Documents
Prospective candidates interested in the British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship must prepare a set of documents for their application. The application form must be completed accurately. A Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing academic and professional achievements is required. Applicants must also submit a well-defined research proposal outlining their intended project. A cover letter is necessary to express interest and highlight suitability for the fellowship. Additionally, candidates need to provide confidential references, with a minimum of two and a maximum of three required.
The application process typically involves submitting these documents through the official IASH fellowship portal. It is advisable for potential applicants to visit the scholarship webpage for the most up-to-date information and specific instructions on how to apply. The deadline for applications is July 31, 2026, so early preparation is recommended.
