The IIE-SRF Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded program providing critical support to professors, senior researchers, and public intellectuals facing severe threats in their home countries. This fellowship offers a lifeline through financial assistance, health insurance, and a safe academic placement to continue their vital work.
The Institute of International Education (IIE) Scholar Rescue Fund has been protecting endangered scholars since 2002, continuing a mission that began in 1919. IIE-SRF provides fellowships for visiting academic appointments, helping preserve academic communities and intellectual freedom worldwide.
IIE-SRF Fellowship Benefits
- A grant of up to US $30,000
- Individual health insurance
- A visiting academic appointment of up to one year (renewable for a second year)
IIE-SRF Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- Professors, senior researchers, and public intellectuals from any country, academic field, or discipline may qualify
- Hold a Ph.D. or highest degree in their field and/or have extensive teaching or research experience
- Facing or have recently fled from immediate, severe, and targeted threats to their lives and/or careers
- Demonstrate superior academic accomplishment and promise
- Will benefit their home and/or host academic communities
How to Apply for IIE-SRF Fellowship?
- Start by carefully reviewing the eligibility criteria and required documents to make sure you qualify before beginning your application.
- Create an account on the application portal and fill in your personal, academic, and professional details step by step. Take your time to ensure all information is accurate and complete.
- Prepare and upload all required documents, including proof of academic background, employment details, and any supporting materials requested. Missing documents can delay or affect your application.
- Write your statements clearly, focusing on your academic journey, current situation, and future goals. Be honest and specific, as this helps reviewers understand your case better.
- Before submitting, double-check every section of your application to avoid errors. Once you are satisfied, submit the form before the deadline and keep a copy for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The IIE-SRF Fellowship supports at-risk scholars by providing safe academic placements and financial assistance. With a flexible application process and rolling submissions, it helps scholars continue research and teaching while overcoming threats and displacement challenges.
What is the application deadline for the IIE-SRF Fellowship?
The application deadline for the IIE-SRF Fellowship is April 26, 2026 for possible consideration at the Selection Committee meeting in June 2026. IIE-SRF accepts applications on a rolling basis and fellowships are awarded quarterly.
Who is eligible to apply for the IIE-SRF Fellowship?
Professors, senior researchers, and public intellectuals from any country, academic field, or discipline who face immediate, severe, and targeted threats to their lives and/or careers in their home countries may qualify. Applicants should hold a Ph.D. or highest degree and have extensive teaching or research experience.
What benefits does the IIE-SRF Fellowship provide?
The fellowship provides a grant of up to US $30,000, individual health insurance, and support for a visiting academic appointment of up to one year (renewable for a second year). The final amount depends on factors like host institution location and cost of living.
How do I apply for the IIE-SRF Fellowship?
Submit application materials via email to [email protected], or by fax or post. Required materials include the application form, CV, academic and personal statements, reference letters, degree copy, and publication samples. Applications may be submitted directly or by a third party.
What documents are required for the IIE-SRF application?
Required documents include: Application Form, current CV, academic statement detailing background and research interests, personal statement explaining threats faced, reference letters (2 academic/professional and 2 personal), copy of highest degree, and samples of current publications.
Can spouses apply together for the IIE-SRF Fellowship?
Yes, spouses who may both be eligible should submit applications at the same time. IIE-SRF requires each spouse to submit complete, unique application materials. If one spouse applies after their partner has been awarded, the second application may not be considered.
What happens after I submit my IIE-SRF application?
IIE-SRF conducts a thorough review of application materials, assessing experience, scholarly work quality, and threat urgency. They may contact references or independent experts. In many cases, they follow up with applicants for additional information about their academic work and circumstances.
Is a host institution commitment required before applying?
No, a letter from a host institution is not required for application. If you have secured a commitment from a university or institution to host your fellowship, you may provide a letter indicating their intent to host, but this is optional.
What study levels does the IIE-SRF Fellowship support?
The IIE-SRF Fellowship is offered for doctoral research studies and supports PhD and postdoctoral researchers. The program focuses on established scholars with extensive teaching or research experience at universities or higher education institutions.
How are IIE-SRF Fellowship applications reviewed?
Applications are reviewed for academic qualifications, quality/potential of the applicant’s work, and severity of threats faced. Preference is given to scholars with Ph.D. or highest degree, facing immediate severe threats, demonstrating superior academic accomplishment, and who will benefit academic communities.
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