The Woodrow Wilson Center for Scholars International Fellowship 2027/28 is open for applications. Apply Below:Â
Application Deadline:
Applications for the Wilson Center Research Fellowship 2027–2028 must be submitted by 30 September 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET). Recommendation letters must also be received by the same deadline.
Tell Me About The Award:
The Wilson Center Research Fellowship is a prestigious fellowship that supports scholars, policy practitioners, journalists, and public intellectuals conducting nonpartisan, policy-relevant research. The fellowship focuses on issues such as geostrategic competition, economic statecraft, technology and innovation, and regional studies.
The programme runs from 1 June 2027 to 30 May 2028 and allows fellows to engage with the Wilson Center’s research community while producing work that bridges scholarship and public policy.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Projects should relate to one or more of the following areas:
- Geostrategic Competition
- Economic Statecraft
- Technology and Innovation
- Regional Studies
- International Affairs
- Public Policy
- Social Sciences
- Humanities with policy relevance
Type:
Research Fellowship.
Who can Apply?
Applicants may include:
- Established scholars
- Policy practitioners
- Journalists
- Public intellectuals
Academic applicants must typically:
- Hold a PhD or JD degree.
- Have published a post-dissertation book/monograph or at least five qualifying peer-reviewed publications.
Government, nonprofit, and policy-sector applicants generally require:
- At least 10 years of professional experience.
- Evidence of leadership, policy impact, or significant publications.
How are Applicants Selected?
The selection committee evaluates applications based on:
- Originality and significance of the proposed research.
- Policy relevance and potential impact.
- Quality, clarity, and organisation of the proposal.
- Applicant’s qualifications and achievements.
- Ability to contribute to the Wilson Center’s mission of connecting scholarship and public affairs.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Applicants of all nationalities may apply.
However:
- Applicants residing in the United States must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents at the time of application.
- The Wilson Center does not sponsor J-1 visas for this fellowship.
Where will the Award be Taken?
The fellowship is administered by the Wilson Center in Washington, D.C., USA.
Most research activities are conducted remotely, although fellows are expected to attend required programme visits in Washington, D.C.
How Many Awards?
Approximately 10 to 20 fellowships are awarded each year.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
Successful fellows receive:
- $120,000 total fellowship funding
- $10,000 per month for 12 months
- Travel and accommodation for required programme visits to Washington, D.C.
- Access to the Wilson Center’s research and policy network
Note: Health insurance and independent research travel are not covered.
How Long Will the Award Last?
The fellowship lasts 12 months, from 1 June 2027 to 30 May 2028.
How to Apply:
Applicants must submit their application through the Interfolio platform and provide:
- Completed Fellowship Application Form.
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 3 pages).
- Research Proposal (maximum 5 pages).
- Two recommendation letters submitted directly through Interfolio.
All application materials must be submitted in English.
