The applications are now open for the prestigious British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship 2027 in the United Kingdom. This fully funded research fellowship is organized by the British Council in partnership with the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH), University of Edinburgh.

The fellowship is designed for outstanding early-career postdoctoral researchers from ODA-recipient countries where the British Council operates. Selected fellows will spend 10 months conducting research in the UK followed by knowledge exchange activities in their home countries.

The program supports research in arts, humanities, education, English language, international development, cultural relations, and peacebuilding.


British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship 2027 Overview 

DetailsInformation
Host CountryUnited Kingdom
Host InstitutionBritish Council & University of Edinburgh
Fellowship TypeResearch Fellowship
CoverageFully Funded
Duration12 Months
Fellowship PeriodJanuary 2027 – December 2027
Eligible CountriesODA-Recipient Countries
Application DeadlineJuly 31, 2026

About the Fellowship

The British Council launched this fellowship program to celebrate its 90th anniversary and strengthen global research collaboration. The fellowship supports innovative research aligned with the British Council’s vision of building “a more peaceful and prosperous world built on trust.”

Selected fellows will become part of the international scholarly community at the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH) at the University of Edinburgh.


Research Areas

Applicants can apply in research areas related to:

  • Arts
  • Education
  • English Language
  • International Development
  • Peacebuilding
  • Cultural Relations
  • International Relations
  • Cultural Diplomacy
  • Humanities & Social Sciences

Fellowship Structure

The fellowship duration is 12 months and includes:

  • 10 months research stay at the University of Edinburgh
  • Up to 2 months in the applicant’s home country for knowledge exchange and dissemination activities

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive:

  • Monthly bursary of £2,500
  • International travel support
  • Dedicated office space
  • University email and library access
  • Academic mentorship
  • Participation in seminars and workshops
  • Networking opportunities with international researchers
  • Access to IASH facilities and events

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Must be from an ODA-recipient country where the British Council operates
  • Must hold a PhD degree
  • PhD should normally be completed within the last 7 years
  • Must have strong academic and research background
  • Research proposal should align with British Council objectives
  • Applicants from arts, humanities, education, and social sciences are encouraged to apply

Required Documents

Applicants need to prepare:

  • Online Application Form
  • Research Proposal
  • CV/Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Degree Certificate
  • Two Academic References

Important Dates

EventDate
Applications OpenMay 5, 2026
Application DeadlineJuly 31, 2026
Fellowship StartsJanuary 2027

How to Apply?

Interested applicants must submit their applications online through the official IASH application portal.

Official Fellowship Page

British Council Fellowship Official Page

Official Application Portal

Apply Here – IASH Application Portal


Final Words

The British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship 2027 is an excellent opportunity for early-career researchers looking to gain international exposure and conduct advanced research in the United Kingdom. With full financial support, mentorship, and access to world-class research facilities, this fellowship provides an outstanding platform for professional and academic growth.