The Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS) offers a renowned Fellowship Programme for scholars, artists, and research teams from around the world. This opportunity supports original, innovative research in a multidisciplinary environment. Importantly, the program encourages projects that cross boundaries and contribute to both individual and collective academic discourse. Applications for the 2027 2nd Semester close on 30 April 2026.
Application Deadline: 30 April 2026
Eligible Countries: All countries
Program Duration: One semester (mid-January to mid-June or mid-July to mid-December); minimum 8 weeks possible
Program Location: Stellenbosch, South Africa
Funding/Benefits: Return airfare, accommodation, stipend, office facilities, lunch, library access
Award Provider: Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS)
About this Program
STIAS provides a unique, creative space for advanced study and collaborative research. The Fellowship welcomes individual scholars, artists-in-residence, early career African researchers (Iso Lomso), and teams. Therefore, applicants can propose their own projects or participate in STIAS-initiated programs. The selection committee values interdisciplinary projects that offer new insights and benefit from cross-pollination of ideas.
Fellows are expected to reside at STIAS for the program’s duration. They participate in seminars, present their work, and engage with both local and international academic communities. The environment fosters innovation and supports projects relevant to South Africa and Africa, while maintaining a global outlook.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to scholars and artists from any country, discipline, or academic affiliation.
- Applicants may apply individually, as a team (2–5 members), or as early career African scholars (Iso Lomso Fellowship).
- Projects must demonstrate academic excellence, originality, and feasibility.
- Preference for interdisciplinary and innovative research proposals.
- Team proposals should include members from different regions, especially Africa.
- Fellows must participate in seminars and be resident in Stellenbosch for the fellowship period.
- Previous fellows may reapply after two years, but first-time applicants have priority within a five-year cycle.
What Fellows Receive:
- One economy class return airfare to and from Cape Town.
- Accommodation in Stellenbosch (includes partner if accompanied).
- Monthly stipend to cover living costs.
- Office space and access to research facilities at the Wallenberg Research Centre.
- Lunches with other fellows on weekdays.
- Access to Stellenbosch University’s library and campus resources.
Program Components:
- Research residency in a multidisciplinary setting.
- Participation in regular seminars and academic discussions.
- Opportunities for networking and collaboration with leading scholars and artists.
- Support for team workshops or colloquia (for team fellowships).
How to Apply
- Choose the appropriate fellowship type (Individual, Team, Iso Lomso, or Artist-in-Residence).
- Complete the online application form with personal and project details.
- Upload required documents in PDF format, including:
- Cover letter with motivational statement.
- Project proposal (2–4 pages for individuals, up to 5 pages for teams).
- Comprehensive CV with publications list.
- One or two recent published articles or outputs related to the project.
- For team applications, the main applicant submits the proposal and invites team members to complete their profiles.
- Submit your application before the deadline. Selection feedback is provided by September for the second semester.
Applicants should review the full eligibility and application requirements on the official website. Visa and insurance arrangements are the responsibility of the fellow, but STIAS provides support materials as needed.
👉 Visit the official fellowship page for details
