Introduction

Are you a researcher in the beginning or middle of your career looking for a prestigious fellowship abroad in Europe? If so, the Asia in the World Fellowship 2027/28 could be the perfect opportunity to expand your research, build a global academic network, and collaborate with experts from around the world.

Hosted by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) in Leiden, the Netherlands, this fellowship has been designed to encourage innovative research that explores Asia’s connections with the wider world.  Rather than focusing only on regional studies, the program supports interdisciplinary projects that examine global issues such as climate change, migration, digital transformation, sustainable development, public policy, economics, and cultural exchange.

One of the biggest attractions of this fellowship is its unique international structure.  Fellows begin their journey at a partner institution before moving on to IIAS in Leiden to continue their research. This model allows participants to experience different academic environments while developing meaningful international collaborations.

For funded applicants, the fellowship also offers generous financial support, including a monthly stipend, housing allowance, travel assistance, professional development opportunities, and access to excellent university facilities.  These benefits allow fellows to focus entirely on producing high-quality research without worrying about financial challenges.

Whether you are an academic, researcher, policy expert, artist, or knowledge professional, the Asia in the World Fellowship 2027/28 provides an outstanding platform to advance your career while contributing to research with global impact.

Asia in the World Fellowship 2027/28 Overview

Program Information	Details
Host Country	Netherlands
Host Institution	International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS)
Location	Leiden, Netherlands
Fellowship Type	Fully Funded (Category A)
Duration	9 Months
Phase 1	3 Months at a Partner Institution
Phase 2	6 Months at IIAS, Leiden
Eligible Applicants	International Researchers and Knowledge Professionals
Application Deadline	10 September 2026

What is the Asia in the World Fellowship 2027/28?

The Asia in the World Fellowship is an internationally recognized research program organized by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS).  The fellowship was redesigned to go beyond traditional regional approaches to Asian Studies to encourage global collaboration and creative thinking.

Instead of studying Asia in isolation, the fellowship encourages participants to examine how Asia interacts with the rest of the world through politics, economics, culture, technology, migration, environmental sustainability, and social development.

Researchers from different backgrounds work together to produce knowledge that contributes not only to academic discussions but also to public policy and international cooperation.

This multidisciplinary approach has made the fellowship one of Europe’s most respected opportunities for researchers interested in Asia and global affairs.

About the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS)

The International Institute for Asian Studies, commonly known as IIAS, is based in the historic city of Leiden in the Netherlands.  Over the years, it has become one of Europe’s leading research institutes dedicated to Asian Studies and interdisciplinary collaboration.

IIAS promotes partnerships between universities, research centers, museums, think tanks, governments, and civil society organizations around the world.  Its mission is to create knowledge that connects Asia with global challenges while encouraging cooperation between scholars from different cultures and disciplines.

An active academic community is created by the institute’s regular international conferences, workshops, seminars, lectures, and research events, allowing fellows to exchange ideas, receive feedback, and build lasting professional relationships.

For many participants, becoming part of the IIAS community opens doors to future research projects, publications, and international collaborations that continue well beyond the fellowship period.

Fellowship Structure

Unlike many traditional research fellowships, the Asia in the World Fellowship follows a unique two-phase model that allows participants to experience multiple academic environments.

Phase One: Partner Institution Residency

At one of IIAS’s partner institutions in Asia, Africa, Europe, or Latin America, the first phase lasts three months.

Fellows must perform the following during this time: 

• Conduct collaborative research.
• Deliver lectures or presentations.
• Engage in academic activities in the community. 
• Build partnerships with researchers.
• Join online meetings with other fellows.

Participants can benefit from new perspectives and strengthen their international networks during this initial stage.

Phase Two: IIAS Residency in Leiden

The second phase takes place at IIAS in Leiden for six months.

During this residency, fellows receive access to:

•  Modern office facilities
•  University libraries
•  Seminar rooms
•  Research workshops
•  Professional development programs
•  Academic networking events
•  Shared research spaces
•  Collaborative learning opportunities

 This supportive environment allows fellows to complete their research while engaging with scholars from around the world.

Financial Benefits

One of the strongest reasons to apply for the Asia in the World Fellowship 2027/28 is its generous financial support for funded fellows.

Successful applicants receive assistance that significantly reduces the cost of living and research during the fellowship.

The financial package includes:

•  Monthly stipend during the Leiden residency
•  Housing allowance each month Grant for international travel Visa support
•  Professional development activities
•  Academic workshops
•  Networking events
•  University facilities
•  Library access
•  Space for offices Research support

The monthly stipend helps fellows manage their daily living expenses, while the housing allowance contributes toward accommodation costs in Leiden.

Travel support covers the journey from the fellow’s home country to the partner institution, onward travel to the Netherlands, and the return journey after completing the fellowship.

In addition, participants gain access to professional workshops, career development opportunities, and networking events that enhance both academic and professional growth.

Research Themes

IIAS encourages applicants to submit research proposals that examine Asia within wider global contexts.

Examples of suitable research areas include:

• Asian societies and cultures
• International relations
• Global governance
• Climate change
• Sustainable development
• Migration and mobility
• Digital transformation
• Public policy
• Urban development
• Arts and humanities
• Cultural heritage
• Environmental studies
• Political science
• Economics
• Social sciences
• Knowledge diplomacy

Because they frequently result in creative concepts and practical solutions to the problems facing the world today, interdisciplinary projects that combine multiple fields are especially encouraged.

Why You Should Apply

The Asia in the World Fellowship offers much more than financial support.  It gives you a chance to join a global academic community that is working together to solve difficult global problems through research.

Participants benefit from:

• World-class research facilities
• International academic exposure
• Collaboration with global experts
• Access to leading universities
• Career development opportunities
• Increased research visibility
• International publications
• Long-term professional partnerships
• Cross-cultural learning experiences
• A globally recognized fellowship on their academic profile

For researchers seeking to strengthen their careers while contributing to meaningful international research, this fellowship represents an outstanding opportunity.

Eligibility Criteria

Before applying for the Asia in the World Fellowship 2027/28, applicants should carefully review the eligibility requirements to ensure they qualify for the program.

The fellowship welcomes talented researchers and knowledge professionals from around the world. This is a truly global opportunity because applications are encouraged from applicants of all nationalities.

The program is divided into three application categories:

Category A – Funded Academic Fellows

This category is fully funded and is intended for:

•  PhD holders.
•  PhD candidates who will defend their dissertation no later than September 2026.
•  Researchers seeking financial support throughout the fellowship.

Category B – Academic Self-Funded Fellows

Those who fall into this category should 

• Hold a PhD or complete their PhD by September 2026.
• Have confirmed external or personal funding covering the entire fellowship period.

Category C – Independent Professional (Self-Funded)

This category is open to professionals such as:

• Journalists
• Writers
• Diplomats
• Policy makers
• Museum curators
• Cultural practitioners
• Other professionals with a strong record of work related to Asia.

Applicants should also demonstrate:

• Excellent English language proficiency.
• A strong and original research proposal.
• Research that aligns with the objectives of the Asia in the World initiative.
• Availability to participate in the entire nine-month fellowship.

Required Documents

For a successful submission, it is essential to prepare a complete application. The following documents should be prepared by applicants, although specific requirements may vary slightly:

• completed application form online 
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) that is current 
• Detailed research proposal
• Motivation letter
• List of publications (if any) 
• Academic certificates
• Proof of PhD completion (where required)
• Supporting documents requested through the application portal

Before the application deadline, make sure that all documents are carefully prepared and submitted.

Selection Process

Every application is looked at by the selection committee using a number of important criteria.

These include:

• Academic achievement 
• The proposed research’s novelty 
• Relevance to the fellowship’s research themes
• Interdisciplinary approach
• Potential impact of the research
• Applicant’s professional achievements
• enhancement of international cooperation

In most cases, applicants have a better chance of being chosen if they have novel concepts that link issues in Asia to larger issues in the world.

Application Timeline

Applicants should keep the following important dates in mind.

Event	Date
Applications Open	Currently Open
Online Information Session	13 August 2026
Application Deadline	10 September 2026
Cohort 1	September 2027 – May 2028
Cohort 2	March 2028 – November 2028

To avoid technical issues close to the deadline, it is highly recommended that you submit your application early.

How to Apply for the Asia in the World Fellowship 2027/28

Applying for the fellowship is straightforward if you follow each step carefully.

Step 1

Read all of the criteria for the IIAS Fellowship on the official website.

Step 2

Select the appropriate application type: 

• Priority A (Funded) 
• Category B (Self-Funded Academic)
• Category C (Self-Funded Professional)

Step 3

Prepare all required documents, including your CV, research proposal, and motivation statement.

Step 4

Complete the online application form accurately.

Step 5

Completely format all supporting documents prior to uploading.

Step 6

Before submitting your application, carefully review it.

Step 7

Submit your application before 10 September 2026.

 Late or incomplete applications are generally not considered.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Selection

International fellowships can be highly competitive. These practical tips can help strengthen your application:

• Write a clear and original research proposal.
• Describe the significance of your project on an international scale. 
• Demonstrate how your research connects Asia with global issues.
• Highlight previous research experience.
• Showcase publications or professional achievements.
•  Carefully proofread your application.
•  Submit your application well before the deadline.
•  Follow all instructions provided by IIAS.

A strong proposal that combines academic quality with real-world relevance is more likely to stand out.

Conclusion

The Asia in the World Fellowship 2027/28 is an outstanding opportunity for researchers and knowledge professionals who want to explore Asia’s role in addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary research.  The fellowship is a one-of-a-kind platform for professional development and meaningful collaboration thanks to its innovative two-phase structure, international partnerships, and excellent academic environment.

For funded participants, the program offers financial support that includes a monthly stipend, housing allowance, travel assistance, and access to outstanding research facilities.  Beyond the financial benefits, fellows become part of a vibrant international community dedicated to producing research with real-world impact.

If your research connects Asia with global issues and you are ready to expand your academic or professional horizons, this fellowship is well worth considering.  Prepare your application carefully, submit all required documents before the deadline, and take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to work with one of Europe’s leading institutes for Asian Studies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)