YBB – The British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship 2027 is now open for applications, offering an exceptional opportunity for outstanding early-career researchers from eligible ODA recipient countries to conduct research in the United Kingdom. Organized by the British Council in partnership with the Institute for Advanced Study in the Humanities (IASH), University of Edinburgh, this prestigious fellowship aims to foster international research collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Established to celebrate the British Council’s 90th anniversary, the program supports research that contributes to a more peaceful and prosperous world through international cooperation, cultural relations, and academic excellence.
Quick Overview
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Host Institution: University of Edinburgh (IASH)
- Organized by: British Council & IASH
- Program: British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship
- Duration: 12 months
- Research Stay in the UK: 10 months
- Knowledge Exchange in Home Country: 2 months
- Application Deadline: July 31, 2026
- Fellowship Period: January–December 2027
Fellowship Benefits
Successful fellows will receive comprehensive financial and academic support, including:
- Monthly stipend of £2,500
- Round-trip international airfare to and from the UK
- Dedicated office space at the University of Edinburgh
- Full access to research facilities and academic resources
- Participation in seminars, workshops, and research activities
- Mentorship from leading academics and subject experts
- Opportunities to collaborate with researchers from around the world
- Enhanced international research profile and professional network
Research Focus Areas
Applicants must submit research proposals that align with the British Council’s vision of “a more peaceful and prosperous world built on trust.”
Priority research themes include:
- Arts and Culture
- Education
- English Language
- International Development
- Peacebuilding
- International Issues
- Cultural Relations
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the fellowship, applicants must:
- Be citizens of eligible ODA recipient countries where the British Council operates, including Indonesia.
- Hold a completed PhD degree.
- Be an early-career researcher with a strong academic and research background.
- Conduct research related to social sciences, arts, humanities, education, cultural relations, international development, or peacebuilding.
- Demonstrate a commitment to international collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Academic qualifications and professional achievements
- Quality and relevance of the research proposal
- Alignment with the British Council’s mission and priority themes
- Potential contribution to knowledge exchange and international collaboration
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Online application form
- Research proposal
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter
- Two academic reference letters
- PhD degree certificate
Fellowship Structure
The fellowship is divided into two phases:
- 10 months conducting research at the Institute for Advanced Study in the Humanities (IASH), University of Edinburgh.
- 2 months spent in the fellow’s home country focusing on collaboration, dissemination of research findings, and knowledge exchange activities.
This structure is designed to maximize both international research experience and long-term impact within the fellow’s local academic community.
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How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official IASH application portal.
To apply:
- Visit the official fellowship application portal at https://www.iash.ed.ac.uk/british-council-90th-anniversary-research-fellowships.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all required documents.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Note: Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: May 5, 2026
- Application Deadline: July 31, 2026
- Fellowship Period: January–December 2027
Conclusion
The British Council 90th Anniversary Fellowship 2027 offers an outstanding opportunity for early-career researchers to expand their academic expertise, collaborate with internationally renowned scholars, and contribute to research addressing global challenges. With generous financial support, access to world-class research facilities, and a strong emphasis on international collaboration, this fellowship is an excellent pathway for researchers seeking to make a meaningful impact both globally and within their home countries.
