The National Bureau of Asian Research (NBR) Chinese Language Fellowship Program (CLFP) 2026-2027 provides substantial financial support for American graduate students to undergo full-time, intensive Chinese language training in Taiwan or China. Funded by the Carnegie Corporation of New York, the program offers two distinct tracks: a PhD track awarding up to $50,000 and a Prospective PhD track awarding up to $40,000. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents with at least intermediate Chinese proficiency. The fellowship covers one academic year and is designed to strengthen U.S. public policy expertise and scholarly research on China. Applications, including resumes, cover letters, and transcripts, are due by February 16, 2026.
NBR Chinese Language Fellowship Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Organization | National Bureau of Asian Research (NBR) |
| Maximum Funding | Up to $50,000 (PhD Track) |
| Study Location | Taiwan or China |
| Application Deadline | February 16, 2026 |
| Target Audience | U.S. PhD and Master’s Students |
| Focus Area | Intensive Chinese Language Training |
NBR Chinese Language Fellowship Overview
The NBR Chinese Language Fellowship Program (CLFP) is a strategic investment in the future of American expertise on China. By providing the financial means for graduate students to immerse themselves in full-time language study, NBR aims to develop a cohort of specialists capable of navigating complex primary sources and engaging deeply with Chinese society.
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This program is not a research grant; rather, it is a dedicated language immersion opportunity intended to provide the linguistic foundation necessary for advanced scholarly research and high-level public policy contributions.
NBR Chinese Language Fellowship Program 2026-2027 Benefits
Tier 1: PhD Track Fellowship (Up to $50,000)
- Dissertation Preparation Award: Designed for currently enrolled PhD students. This track supports nine months of intensive language training plus a summer program featuring one-on-one instruction for dissertation source materials.
Tier 2: Prospective PhD Track Fellowship (Up to $40,000)
- Advanced Graduate Award: Tailored for current Master’s students or recent Master’s graduates planning to pursue a PhD. It supports nine months of full-time intensive language training in an immersive environment.
Tier 3: Scholarly & Policy Contribution Recognition
- Future Specialist Award: Recognition granted to students who demonstrate a clear commitment to advancing U.S. public policy toward China or contributing to future generations of China-focused academic teaching.
Eligibility Requirements for NBR Chinese Language Fellowship Program 2026-2027
- Academic/Leadership: Applicants must be currently enrolled PhD students, Master’s students, or recent Master’s graduates. A commitment to scholarly research or public policy is required.
- Study Status: Applicants must be able to devote themselves to full-time, intensive language study for one full academic year. Substantive doctoral research during the fellowship is not permitted.
- Visa Status: Must be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident of the United States.
- Program Admission: Candidates must demonstrate intermediate Chinese language ability through transcripts or assessment tests; beginners are not eligible.
How to Apply for NBR Chinese Language Fellowships [2026] (Step by Step)
- Submit Online Application: Complete the official application form covering academic history and Chinese language background.
- Upload Documentation: Provide a two-page summary resume (no full CVs), a two-page cover letter detailing training plans, and electronic transcripts (PDF).
- Reference Coordination: Ensure two letters of recommendation (one from a supervisor and one from a Chinese language teacher) are sent directly to fellowships@nbr.org.
- Final Evaluation: Candidates are assessed on their language aptitude, academic potential for PhD success, and the relevance of the proposed program to their career goals.
Application Deadline: February 16, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use this fellowship to conduct my PhD field research?
No, the fellowship is strictly intended for full-time intensive language training and not for substantive doctoral research.
2. Is this fellowship open to international students?
No, applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the United States.
3. What is the difference in funding between the two tracks?
The PhD track offers up to $50,000, while the Prospective PhD track (for Master’s students) offers up to $40,000.
4. Do I need to be a beginner in Chinese to apply?
No, the program requires an intermediate level of proficiency. It is not intended for beginners.
5. Where can the language training take place?
The fellowship supports intensive language programs located in either Taiwan or China.
6. Can I submit a full academic CV?
No, NBR specifically requests a two-page summary resume. Full academic CVs will not be reviewed.
7. How are letters of recommendation submitted?
References must send their letters directly to Fern Hinrix at fellowships@nbr.org by the deadline.
8. What should the cover letter address?
It must explain how the proposed language program contributes to your training, doctoral studies, and future career plans.
9. I am a recent Master’s graduate. Which track should I apply for?
You should apply for the Prospective PhD track, provided you plan to pursue a PhD program in the future.
10. Does the PhD track include summer study?
Yes, the PhD track includes a summer language program featuring one-on-one classes focused on primary sources related to your dissertation.
