Asia in the World Fellowship 2026-27 in Netherlands | Fully Funded

Expanding your research horizons in a beautiful European city! The Asia in the World Fellowship 2026-27 is a fully funded 12-month program hosted by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) at Leiden University in the Netherland. This unique fellowship breaks out of traditional North–South boundaries: it brings together early‐career scholars from around the globe to explore Asia’s connections with the wider world. You’ll spend six months in Leiden, then 3–5 months at a partner institute in Asia, Africa, Latin America or Europe, and finish with a return to Leiden. In short, you’ll join a diverse community unraveling Asia’s global role, with all major costs covered (travel, housing, stipend and more).

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

The fellowship is open to outstanding researchers worldwide in the social sciences, humanities or arts. Key requirements include:

• A PhD degree (completed, or with defense scheduled by 15 February 2026).
• Being early to mid-career – the program is designed for scholars who want to deepen their perspective beyond their own institution or region.
• Full availability from Oct 2026 to Oct 2027. You must commit to living in Leiden during the first and last phases, and in a co-host country (outside the Netherlands) for 3–5 months. The fellowship cannot overlap with other jobs or grants.
• English proficiency (all activities and discussions are in English).
• Applicants from any country or discipline are welcome, as long as their project helps us understand Asia’s place in a global context. (IIAS encourages topics fitting its themes like Asian cities, cultural politics or Global Asia.)

Applicants should finalize any planned fieldwork before the fellowship starts (IIAS does not fund fieldwork during the program). Otherwise, if you meet the above conditions and have a clear research proposal, you’re a great fit!

Fellowship Benefits (Funding Details)

The Asia in the World fully funded Fellowship – IIAS takes care of your basic needs so you can focus on research. Benefits include:

• Monthly stipend: €1250 in Leiden. (During the co-host stay you’ll receive support set by that institution.)
• Housing: Furnished apartment in Leiden (a short walk from the institute), plus accommodation at your co-host location.
• Travel grant: A one-time allowance up to €1000 to cover your flights (to the Netherlands and on to the co-host country).
• Professional development: IIAS organizes free workshops, outings, and training events so you can grow academically and personally.

All in all, the fellowship covers your travel and living costs – truly a no-cost global research adventure. (Note: funds for conferences or fieldwork are not provided; you can attend events at your own expense.)

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

To apply, follow these steps carefully:

1. Prepare your application: You’ll need an updated CV, a list of publications, and a clear research proposal (work plan) in English. Show how your project sheds light on Asia’s global interactions (tie it to one of IIAS’s clusters if possible). Highlight any relevant non-academic experience (like activism, art or community projects) – IIAS values diverse perspectives.
2. Online application form: Go to the official IIAS fellowship page and fill out the Asia in the World Fellowship application form (available on the IIAS website). Upload your CV, publications list, and proposal. Make sure each file is named Firstname_Lastname_document.pdf as requested.
3. Submit by the deadline: The application portal opens July 17, 2025 and closes Sept 15, 2025. There is no extension, so don’t wait till the last minute! Double-check that all fields are complete before submitting.
4. Shortlisting process: After applying, the selection committee will review all entries. If you are shortlisted, IIAS will ask you to provide two reference letters and a short video presentation (details sent by email).
5. Selection timeline: Shortlisted candidates are notified in November 2025, with final decisions announced by Feb 2026. (If selected, you must arrive in Leiden in early Oct 2026 for the fellowship’s start.)

Ready to take the leap? Apply for the Asia in the World Fellowship 2026-27 through the official IIAS portal. This is your chance to study in Leiden and partner institutes abroad with all expenses covered!

Important Deadlines

• Application period: 17 July – 15 September 2025. Submit online before 11:59 PM (Central Europe Time) on Sept 15.
• Shortlist notification: November 2025 (be sure to check your email!).
• Final results: February 2026.

Put these dates in your calendar now. Missing the deadline means waiting another year, so plan ahead!

Tips for Applicants

• Start early: Draft your proposal and CV in advance. Proofread carefully – clarity and attention to detail impress reviewers.
• Highlight your fit: Clearly explain why your project matters globally. Show how it connects Asia with other regions or disciplines. Use specific examples or case studies to make your proposal concrete.
• Non-academic experience counts: If you’ve done relevant work outside academia (like curating an exhibit, leading a community project, or activism related to Asia), mention it. IIAS explicitly welcomes such diverse experience.
• Tailor it to the themes: Browse the IIAS thematic clusters (Cities, Global Asia, Politics of Culture) and say which one your project aligns with. This shows you’ve done your homework.
• Prepare for the video: If shortlisted, you’ll submit a short video. Be natural and passionate about your research; practice speaking clearly about your project.
• Get good references: Choose referees who know your work well (advisors, mentors, etc.) and can comment on your research potential.

Remember, this fellowship is competitive but your unique perspective can shine through. Use the application to tell your story and passion for Asian Studies.

Conclusion

The Asia in the World Fellowship 2026-27 is an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in global Asian Studies and grow your academic network. With funding for stipend, housing and travel, you can focus entirely on your research and collaborations. If you have questions or need help, reach out to the IIAS fellowships coordinator (contact info on the website) or attend any info sessions.

Don’t miss out – apply before Sept 15, 2025. Share this chance with classmates or colleagues who might be a great fit. The world of Asian Studies needs fresh, innovative ideas like yours.

Your research could help reshape how we understand Asia’s global role. Take the first step toward this exciting journey – and spread the word to others who should know about it. Good luck, and go for it!

You have everything it takes to join the next generation of scholars connecting Asia with the world – start your adventure today!