Are you a passionate researcher looking to focus on your work without financial worries? Here is a golden opportunity for you. The British Academy Mid-Career Fellowships 2025–26, that’s your chance to dive deep into your research and make an impact in the world of humanities and social sciences!
This is a paid fellowship program in the UK that offers up to £80,000 to selected researchers. Its main focus is to help them complete a major research project, promote public engagement, and boost their academic careers.
If you’re a mid-career scholar or a researcher with strong communication skills and a solid research plan, don’t miss this opportunity! This is a 6 to 12-month program and will start from 1 September 2026.
Interested candidates can apply for the British Academy Mid-Career Fellowships before the deadline of 20th August 2025.
In this article, I provide complete details related to British Academy Mid-Career Fellowships 2025–26, including eligibility, benefits, application process, etc.
Overview of British Academy Mid-Career Fellowships 2025–26
The British Academy is offering fellowships for mid-career researchers in the humanities and social sciences. This program provides researchers with the time and funding to focus on a specific project while also encouraging public understanding of their work.
You’ll have the opportunity to spend 6 to 12 months working full-time on your research, free from teaching or administrative duties.
| Fellowship Name | British Academy Mid-Career Fellowships 2025–26 |
| Host Country | United Kingdom |
| Field | Humanities and Social Sciences |
| Organized by | The British Academy |
| Type | Paid Research Fellowship |
| Fellowship Duration | 6 to 12 months |
| Location | UK-based Universities, Higher Education Institutions, or Independent Research Organizations |
| Duration date | Between 1 September 2026 and 1 January 2027 |
| Application Deadline | 20 August 2025 |
main motive of the scholarship
- To support exceptional mid-career researchers with high-quality research proposals
- To enhance communication with broader, non-academic audiences
- To provide time and funding to complete a major research project
- To promote public understanding and engagement in the humanities and social sciences
Fellowship Benefits
- Up to £80,000 salary contribution..
- Total award funding can go up to £152,000.
- Its a paid internship. No financial burden while you work on your research.
- Full Economic Costing (FEC) covered – The British Academy will pay 80% of your total FEC
Who Can Apply?
You can apply if you meet the following conditions:
- Employed at a UK-based university, higher education institution, or independent research organization
- No strict age limit or career stage restriction
- Non-PhD holders may also be eligible if they are within 15 years of their first academic appointment
- Should demonstrate how your research will enhance public understanding of your field. Typically, within 15 years of completing a PhD (exceptions are made for career breaks)
- Must have a strong academic track record and excellent communication skills
ALSO READ: Ellison Scholars Program 2026 in the UK
Important Dates
| Application Opens | Currently open |
| Application Deadline | 20 August 2025 |
| Fellowship Start Date | Between 1 September 2026 and 1 January 2027 |
Selection Process
- Quality of the research proposal
- Applicant’s communication potential
Why Should You Apply?
The British Academy Mid-Career Fellowship offers more than just financial support. It’s a platform to:
- Complete important research without distractions
- Increase public awareness of your work
- Expand your professional network within the UK
- Enhance your academic profile
How to Apply for the British Academy Fellowship?
Here’s the step-by-step application guide to make your application process easy:-
- Visit the British Academy’s Flexi-Grant Portal
- Create an ORCID account and include your ID in the application, and register with ORCID
- Make sure you get institutional Approval for your application.
- Complete the Application Form by filling out all sections, uploading the required documents, and reviewing everything.
- Submit Before the Deadline – 20 August 2025
FAQs
How do I apply?
You must apply online through the Flexi-Grant system, complete the application form, upload the required documents, and submit it by 20 August 2025.
Do I need a PhD?
Not necessarily. You can still apply if you are within 15 years of your first academic position.
Can I take a break during the fellowship?
No, the fellowship is designed for uninterrupted full-time research work.
Who is eligible to apply?
Any researcher employed at a UK-based university, higher education institution, or independent research organization is eligible to apply.
What is the funding amount?
The British Academy covers 80% of the total project cost, with a maximum salary contribution of £80,000 .