Are you a passionate researcher? Also interested in Asia’s role in the world? Great news! The Asia in the World Fellowship 2026/27 is now open for applications! This is a fully funded 12-month research fellowship offered by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) in the Netherlands.
The fellowship spans from October 2026 to October 2027 and is structured into three distinct phases. The first six months will take place at Leiden University in the Netherlands. This is followed by a second phase lasting three to five months at one of the designated co-host institutions.
This opportunity allows for conducting international research, traveling to multiple countries, and receiving full funding for it.
The goal is to promote innovative research and global collaboration. Candidates from all disciplines are encouraged to apply for this unique opportunity.
All the passionate researchers are welcome to the early- to mid-career researchers from around the world to explore Asian Studies in a global context and collaborate with top scholars at prestigious institutions.
We have shared all important information related to the Asia in the World Fellowship 2026/27 through this article. Read our blog post carefully to grab the opportunity.
Overview of Asia in the World Fellowship 2026-27
| Host country | Netherlands |
| Host Institution | International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) |
| Fellowship Duration | October 2026 to October 2027 (12 months) |
| Location | Leiden University, Netherlands |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Duration | 12 Month |
| Deadline to Apply | 15th September 2025 |
Financial Benefits
This fellowship comes with amazing benefits to support your research journey:-
- Round-trip airfare
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Free housing throughout the fellowship
- Professional development activities (networking, conferences, collaborations, etc.)
ALSO READ: University of Liverpool International Visiting Fellowship 2025–26
Research Focus Areas
Your research should explore Asia’s global role in a broader and more interconnected context. It must align with IIAS’s key themes:-
- Asian Cities
- Global Asia
- The Politics of Culture (formerly known as Asian Heritages)
Researchers from all academic disciplines can apply — including historians, anthropologists, sociologists, political scientists, urban planners, cultural experts, and more!
Fellowship Structure: 3 Exciting Phases
Let’s know more about Fellowship Structure of Asia in the World Fellowship:
Asia in the World Fellowship has total 3 Exciting Phases –
Phase 1: First 6 Months – Leiden, Netherlands –
You’ll start your journey at IIAS, taking part in collaborative research, publishing, and interacting with scholars from across Europe.
Phase 2: 3–5 Months – Co-Host Institution Abroad –
On the second phase, you’ll move to one of the global partner institutes, where you’ll share knowledge, deepen your research, and build international networks.
- Kasetsart University (Thailand)
- AIIOC (Indonesia)
- Heidelberg University (Germany)
- Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (Spain)
- Malmö University (Sweden)
- TNUA (Taiwan)
- UDSM (Tanzania)
- And many more!
Phase 3: Final Return – Back to IIAS in Leiden –
Conclude your fellowship by returning to IIAS to present the insights and outcomes of your research conducted abroad.
Who Can Apply?
This fellowship is open to candidates from around the world, with the following basic requirements:-
Eligibility Criteria:
- You must hold a PhD or have successfully defended your PhD by 15 February 2026.
- You must be fully available from October 2026 to October 2027.
- You cannot hold any other job or fellowship during this period.
- If currently employed, you must provide an official release letter from your employer.
Ideal Candidates:–
Early- to mid-career researchers from any country with a strong interest in Asian Studies and global collaboration.
Required Documents
- IIAS Fellowship Application Form
- List of publications
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Project timeline
- Research work plan
Important Dates
| Application status | Ongoing |
| Deadline to apply | 15 September 2025 |
| Shortlist | November 2025 |
| Final results | February 2026 |
How to Apply?
- Visit to the official website. All applications must be submitted online via the official IIAS website.
- find the apply link here
- Fill up all details with accuracy
- upload required documents
- After that submit your form.
FAQ
What countries are eligible?
Applicants from all countries are welcome — this is a global fellowship.
Do I need a PhD to apply?
Yes, you must either hold a PhD or successfully defend it by 15 February 2026.
Is there an age limit?
There is no specific age limit mentioned, but the program is aimed at early- to mid-career researchers.
Can I apply if I’m currently employed?
Yes, but you will need an official release letter from your employer, as you cannot hold any other job or fellowship during the program.