The Asia in the World Fellowship Program is a unique, two-phase, nine-month opportunity. The first three months take place at a selected partner institution, while the remaining six months are hosted by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) in Leiden, the Netherlands. Fully Funded fellowship positions are available for eligible applicants. The program introduces new approaches to Asian Studies and promotes global discussion, research, and collaboration.
In phase 1, fellows will attend a three-month residency at a partner institution in Asia, Africa, Latin America, or Europe. During the international fellowship program, participants will give lectures and engage with local activities. They will also participate in online meetings with the program coordinator. Later in Phase 2, participants will have a six-month stay at IIAS, Leiden University, in the Netherlands. They will have access to an office space, campus library, and a screening room.
Asia in the world fellowship has a co-hosting model to promote innovative research and exchange of ideas. It is designed for early- to mid-career researchers and knowledge professionals looking to explore new perspectives. Research projects will focus on IIAS’ theme areas which include Cities, The Politics of Culture, Asia in the World, Humanities Across Borders, Knowledge Diplomacy in Action. Apply now before the applications are closed.
IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship 2027:
Fellowship Locations:
- Netherlands and Partner Host Countries
Host Organisation:
- International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS)
Program Location:
- IIAS
Program Duration:
- Cohort 1: September 2027 – end of May 2028
- Cohort 2: March 2028 – end of November 2028
Benefits of IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship 2027:
Category A: Funded Academic Fellows
- Fellows will receive monthly stipend of €1,250 during phase 2 (Leiden residency).
- Participants will receive stipend for Phase 1 as decided by the co-host institution.
- Researchers will receive housing allowance €1,200 per month during Phase 2.
- Fellows will get a travel grant covering travel from their country of residence to the co-host institution, travel from the co-host institution to the Netherlands, and return travel home after completing the fellowship.
- Participants will have access to IIAS-organised tours, workshops, and local activities during the fellowship period.
- Fellows will have access to IIAS office, seminar rooms, library, and screening room on shared basis.
- Fellows will receive visa support from Leiden University for phase 2 and guidance from the co-host institution for phase 1.
Categories B & C: Self-Funded Fellows
- Fellows will receive visa support from Leiden University.
- The program offers accommodation assistance to the participants.
- Fellows will have access to university facilities including IIAS office space, seminar rooms, library, and screening room on shared basis.
- Fellows will participate in all IIAS community activities, workshops, and events.
Check Harvard Visiting Research Scholarship Program in the USA (Funded)
Eligibility Criteria for IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship Program:
- The program is open to three categories of applicants.
Category A: Academic (Funded)
- For PhD holders, or candidates whose defence till September 2026.
- Candidates applying for the fellowship fully funded modality.
Category B: Academic (Self-Funded)
- For PhD holders, or candidates whose defence takes place till September 2026.
- Candidates with confirmed external or personal funding for the full fellowship period.
Category C: Independent Professional (Self-Funded)
- For journalists, writers, diplomats, policy makers, curators, and other professionals.
- Candidates with a relevant track record in their field.
- Applicants with confirmed external or personal funding for the full fellowship period.
- Applicants of all categories must have good command of English.
How to apply for IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship Program:
- Apply through IIAS Fellowship Application Form.
- Select your applicant profile (A, B, C).
- Select your cohort dates.
- Provide details of your research project.
- Choose your relevant research cluster or framework.
- Write your project description.
- Mention your work plan and the expected outcomes.
- Explain your language skills and relevance to the project.
- Select the co-hosting institutions.
- Explain your rationale for choosing the co-hosting institutions.
- Answer all other questions asked in the form.
- Upload the required documents.
- Read carefully and then agree to the terms and conditions.
- Review the information and then submit your form.
Documents required for Asia in the World Fellowship Program:
- CV.
- List of publications.
- Writing samples.
Program Deadline:
- The last date to apply is 10 September, 2026.
