IIE-SRF Fellowship 2026–2027 — Fully Funded Fellowship for Scholars at Risk
The IIE-SRF Fellowship 2026–2027 (Institute of International Education Scholar Rescue Fund) is a global fellowship program that supports scholars, researchers, and professors facing threats in their home countries. The program provides temporary academic placements at universities or research institutions around the world so scholars can continue their work safely.
Established by the Institute of International Education (IIE), the program aims to protect academic freedom and ensure that intellectual work continues even when scholars face political persecution, conflict, or other serious risks.
📍 Fellowship Overview
Host: International universities and research institutions worldwide
Program: IIE Scholar Rescue Fund (IIE-SRF) Fellowship
Organizer: Institute of International Education (IIE)
Duration: Typically 9–12 months (renewable for a second year)
The fellowship places scholars at host institutions where they can continue teaching, research, and academic collaboration in a secure environment.
💰 Financial Benefits
Selected fellows receive comprehensive financial support, including:
- Fellowship grant of up to $30,000
- Health insurance coverage
- Relocation and travel assistance
- Support for professional development and networking
- Possible funding for conferences or language training
The funding helps scholars continue their academic careers while working in a safe host institution.
🎓 Eligibility Criteria
Applicants typically must:
- Be professors, researchers, or public intellectuals
- Hold a PhD or highest degree in their field
- Have a record of academic publications or research achievements
- Be facing serious threats or persecution that prevent them from continuing academic work in their home country
Scholars from any country and academic discipline may apply if they meet these criteria.
Students seeking financial support for academic studies are not eligible for this fellowship.
📄 Required Documents
Typical application materials include:
- Completed fellowship application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Personal statement describing academic work and risks faced
- Letters of recommendation
- Evidence of academic publications or research
Applications are evaluated based on academic merit and the urgency of the scholar’s situation.
📝 Application Process
- Prepare the required documents (CV, statement, references).
- Submit an application to the IIE-SRF program.
- The selection committee reviews academic qualifications and risk factors.
- Approved candidates are matched with host universities or research institutions worldwide.
Placement is arranged with institutions willing to host scholars and support their work.
⏰ Deadline
Applications are accepted throughout the year on a rolling basis, and fellowship decisions are typically announced quarterly.
🌟 Why Apply?
The IIE-SRF Fellowship provides scholars with:
- A safe environment to continue teaching and research
- Financial and relocation support
- Access to international academic networks
- Opportunities to maintain academic careers during crises
Since its launch, the program has supported over 1,000 scholars from more than 60 countries by placing them in host institutions worldwide.
