Asia in the World Fellowship: 2027 Fully Funded Research

Scholarship Overview

The Asia in the World Fellowship 2027/28 is a fully funded research program hosted by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) in Leiden, Netherlands. Designed for researchers, artists, and practitioners, this 12-month fellowship focuses on interdisciplinary projects exploring Asia's role in addressing contemporary global challenges. Participants spend their fellowship year at one of Europe's premier research environments for Asian studies.

Can Pakistani Students Apply?

Yes, Pakistani students and researchers are eligible to apply. The fellowship is explicitly open to applicants of all nationalities. Candidates from Pakistan, including those affiliated with universities, think tanks, museums, and research institutes, may submit their proposals for consideration.

Funding and Benefits

This is a fully funded opportunity, covering essential costs for the selected fellow. Benefits include:

• Round-trip airfare travel expenses.
• Provided housing in Leiden.
• A monthly stipend for living expenses.
• Support for professional development activities.

Eligibility Criteria

The program maintains an open eligibility policy for global applicants. Key requirements include:

• The fellowship is open to all nationalities.
• Applicants must hold professional or academic expertise relevant to their proposed research.
• Proposals must demonstrate strong academic quality and original insight.
• The research must align with the current research priorities of the IIAS and the 'Asia in the World' initiative.
• Candidates must be available to conduct the full 12-month research term in the Netherlands.

Required Documents

To complete an application, candidates should prepare the following:

• A completed official online application form.
• An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• A detailed research proposal.
• A personal motivation statement.
• A list of prior publications (where applicable).
• Any additional supporting documentation as requested via the official application portal.

Application Timeline

The deadline for submitting all application materials is September 10, 2026. Applicants are encouraged to initiate their preparation well in advance to meet the documentation requirements.

Selection Process

Applications are evaluated based on the academic quality, originality, and relevance of the proposed research project to the broader scope of the Asia in the World initiative. The selection committee looks for candidates who can contribute to the interdisciplinary environment at IIAS.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must apply through the official IIAS portal. Ensure that all components of the application are submitted before the closing date. You can access the application system here: Apply for the Asia in the World Fellowship.

Pakistan-Specific Application Advice

For Pakistani applicants, it is essential to ensure that your research proposal clearly bridges Asian regional expertise with the global themes identified by the IIAS, such as climate change, migration, or public policy. When preparing your documentation, use the resources available on Scholarshiply's guide to successful applications to strengthen your statement of purpose.

Important Terms and Limitations

This fellowship provides funding for a fixed 12-month duration. It is highly competitive, and applicants should verify that their professional affiliation or research background supports their proposed work plan before submission.