The Venice Fellowships Programme is a prestigious collaboration between the British Council and UCA’s School of Cultural and Creative Industries. It offers two postgraduate students (MA, MPhil, or PhD) a one-month residency in Venice during the 2026 Art Biennale. Fellows act as Exhibition Ambassadors for the British Pavilion while pursuing independent research. Supported by a £3,300 grant, this fellowship provides professional training, international networking, and a platform for developing future leaders in the global arts sector.
Venice Fellowships Programme Summary
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Provider | British Council & UCA |
| Reward Amount | £3,300 Grant |
| Eligible Level | Postgraduate (MA, MPhil, PhD) |
| Location | Venice, Italy (British Pavilion) |
| Duration | One Month during 2026 Biennale |
| Application Deadline | 20 November 2026 |
Venice Fellowships Programme 2026 Details
The Venice Fellowship Programme sends approximately 70 UK-based students to the Biennale annually, with two exclusive spots reserved for UCA students within the School of Cultural and Creative Industries.
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This “working residency” splits time between professional stewardship at the British Pavilion and the development of a student’s own creative or research project inspired by the Venetian context.
Venice Fellowships Programme 2026 Structure
Tier 1: Exhibition Ambassadors (50% Time)
- Professional Engagement: Fellows support the British Pavilion by interacting with international visitors, enhancing the visitor experience, and expanding perspectives on the show.
- Work Experience: Gain hands-on experience in high-level gallery settings and international event management.
Tier 2: Independent Research (50% Time)
- Creative Development: Dedicated time to develop or exhibit a personal project or research thesis inspired by Venice and the Biennale.
- Creative Leadership: Access a platform designed to launch international creative careers and future arts leadership.
Tier 3: Pre-Fellowship Training
- Compulsory Preparation: Successful candidates undergo 15 hours of online training and collaborative workshops covering the Biennale, the British Pavilion, and life in Venice.
- Networking: Early integration into a cohort of 70 fellow researchers and artists from across the UK.
Venice Fellowships Programme 2026 Eligibility Requirements
- Institutional Status: Must be a registered postgraduate student (MA, MPhil, or PhD) at the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) at the time of application.
- Departmental Affiliation: Specifically targeted at the School of Cultural and Creative Industries.
- Commitment: Must be available for a full month in Venice in 2026 and participate in post-fellowship UCA cultural events.
How to Apply for the Venice Fellowships Programme 2026 (Step by Step)
- Download Documentation: Access the official application form and the voluntary Equality and Diversity Monitoring Form.
- Prepare Formats: UCA welcomes applications in written, audio, or video formats.
- Compile CV: A current CV is mandatory; applications without one will not be reviewed.
- Internal Submission: Email your completed form and CV to Dr. Caroline Molloy (Caroline.Molloy@uca.ac.uk) by 20 November 2026, 5pm.
- Selection Process: Shortlisted candidates (3-5 per spot) will be forwarded to the British Council for a final decision in early January 2026.
Application Deadline: 20 November 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Complete the Equality and Diversity Monitoring Form (This is voluntary and anonymous)
Send Application Form to Caroline.Molloy@uca.ac.uk
For More Information Click Here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What does the Venice Fellowship grant cover?
The £3,300 grant is intended to help cover the costs of travel, accommodation, and general living expenses during the one-month stay in Venice.
2. Can undergraduate students apply?
No, the fellowship is strictly for UCA students registered for postgraduate degrees (MA, MPhil, or PhD).
3. What is the main responsibility of a Fellow?
Fellows act as Exhibition Ambassadors for the British Pavilion, meaning you will steward the gallery and engage with the public for half of your time.
4. Do I need to be in a specific school at UCA?
The partnership is through the School of Cultural and Creative Industries. Interested students should contact the project lead to verify their program’s eligibility.
5. Can I apply using a video instead of writing?
Yes, UCA encourages applications in written, audio, or video formats to ensure accessibility.
6. Is there training provided before going to Venice?
Yes, there are 15 hours of compulsory online training and collaborative workshops provided by the British Council.
7. When will I find out if I have been selected?
UCA will inform you if you are shortlisted; the British Council makes the final selection and notifies successful candidates in early January 2026.
8. Are there information sessions?
UCA hosts overview presentations on Monday 20 October 2025 and Wednesday 19 November 2025 (12-1pm).
9. What is expected of me after I return from Venice?
Fellows are expected to engage with UCA cultural events (online or in person) to share their experiences and encourage future applicants.
10. Will there be an interview?
Yes, the British Council may require a virtual interview as part of the final selection process for shortlisted candidates.
