Applications are now open for the Radcliffe Institute Fellowship Programme 2026 for international students
Harvard University is currently accepting applications for the Radcliffe Institute Fellowship Program 2026/2027, a highly prestigious, fully funded residential fellowship that supports up to 50 outstanding scholars, public intellectuals, scientists, writers, and artists from around the world.
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The program fosters an interdisciplinary and innovative research environment where fellows engage in intellectual exchange, collaborative learning, and impactful exploration across various disciplines.
Whether you’re a scientist redefining data systems, an artist pushing creative boundaries, or a scholar unveiling hidden histories, this fellowship is designed to support transformative work that advances knowledge and enriches public discourse.
Fellowship Benefits
Fellows receive a comprehensive support package that includes:
- Stipend (amount varies by field and need)
- Relocation support and project expense allowance
- Office or studio space in Byerly Hall at Radcliffe Yard
- Full access to Harvard libraries, archives, and academic resources
- Use of Harvard athletic facilities
- Option to work with Harvard undergraduate Research Partners, with wages covered by the program
- Participation in professional development opportunities, symposia, and community-building events
Eligibility Requirements
Open to Applicants Worldwide
Harvard Radcliffe Fellows typically receive J-1 scholar visas sponsored by Harvard University.
For Scholars in Humanities and Social Sciences
- Doctorate or terminal degree (PhD, JD, MD) awarded before December 2022
- At least one published monograph or two peer-reviewed articles/chapters
For Scientists, Engineers, and Mathematicians
- PhD in the field awarded before December 2022
- At least five peer-reviewed articles (most fellows have more)
For Creative Artists (Discipline-Specific Criteria)
| Discipline | Eligibility Requirements |
|---|---|
| Film & Video | A body of independent work shown in galleries, museums, festivals, or broadcast |
| Visual Arts | 5+ years of professional work, including group shows and solo exhibitions |
| Fiction/Nonfiction | At least one published book, a signed book contract, or 3+ published long-form works |
| Poetry | 20+ published poems or a poetry book published in the last five years |
| Journalism | 5+ years of professional journalism experience |
| Playwriting | A portfolio of produced or optioned plays |
| Music Composition | Proven record of achievement and performances (PhD or DMA desirable but not required) |
Application Materials Required
To apply, prepare the following documents:
- Online application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Project proposal, with bibliography if relevant
- Work sample or writing sample
- Three letters of recommendation
Fellowship Focus Areas
Radcliffe Institute encourages projects that reflect bold thinking and promote interdisciplinary collaborations. Past fellows have worked on topics ranging from:
- Artificial intelligence and ethics
- Gender and racial justice
- Climate change and sustainability
- Health equity and public health
- Global history and migration
- Innovative literature and storytelling
- New methods in science, art, and digital humanities
Fellows are selected based on the impact and originality of their project, past achievements, and their ability to thrive in a diverse and collaborative cohort.
Program Highlights
- Weekly seminars and peer feedback groups
- Cross-disciplinary collaborations
- Access to Harvard faculty and resources
- Public engagement and presentations of work
- Networking with thought leaders, writers, and researchers from around the world
Why Apply for the Radcliffe Fellowship?
- Work uninterrupted for a full year on your most important project
- Join a global community of innovators, scholars, and creatives
- Access Harvard’s unrivaled archives, libraries, and labs
- Elevate your career with new visibility, recognition, and collaborations
- Build long-lasting connections with some of the world’s leading thinkers
Radcliffe Institute Fellowship 2026 Application Process
Step 1: Review Eligibility
Before starting your application, ensure you meet the discipline-specific eligibility criteria based on your field (Humanities, Sciences, Social Sciences, Journalism, Arts, etc.).
- Humanities/Social Sciences: PhD or terminal degree before December 2022 + at least two peer-reviewed articles or a monograph
- Sciences/Math/Engineering: PhD before December 2022 + at least five peer-reviewed articles
- Creative Arts: Demonstrated professional accomplishments per discipline (see full criteria in the call)
Step 2: Prepare Required Materials
You will need the following documents:
- Online Application Form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Project Proposal
- Clearly outline your project goals, methods, and anticipated impact
- Include bibliography if appropriate
- Work Sample or Writing Sample
- This depends on your discipline (e.g., manuscript, publication, portfolio, film clip)
- Three Letters of Recommendation
- You must enter the names and email addresses of three referees in your application
- They will be contacted automatically to upload their letters
Step 3: Submit the Application Online
- Click the provided link below
- Create an account or log in
- Fill out the application form
- Upload your CV, project proposal, and writing/work sample
- Enter referee details for your recommenders
- Submit the full application before the deadline
Step 4: Await Notification
- Applications go through a multi-stage review process involving external reviewers and selection committees.
- Finalists are typically notified by early 2026.
- Selected fellows will be invited to join the 2026–2027 cohort, starting in fall 2026.
Application Deadline
The deadline for applications in humanities, social sciences, and creative arts is September 11, 2025, 11:59 PM ET.
The deadline for applications in science, engineering, and mathematics is September 30, 2025, 11:59 ET.
