Applications are now officially open for the KWI International Fellowship 2026-27! This is widely recognized as one of the most prestigious funded research opportunities in Europe for scholars in the humanities and social sciences. Hosted by the Institute for Advanced Study in the Humanities (KWI) in Essen, Germany, this program invites exceptional researchers from all over the globe to join a vibrant international academic community.


The fellowship is designed to offer scholars the freedom, financial support, and resources needed to conduct advanced research without the distractions of daily academic administration. Whether you are working on a new book, finalizing a special journal issue, or developing a complex research group, the KWI International Fellowship provides the ideal environment for intellectual growth and collaboration.


For the upcoming academic cycle, the fellowship will run for a duration of 6 months, starting from 1 October 2026 and ending on 31 March 2027. This is a rare opportunity to live and work in the historic Ruhr area of Germany while connecting with other leading minds in your field. If you are looking to elevate your academic career with a funded stay in Europe, this fellowship is the perfect next step.


Fellowship Benefits & Financial Value

The KWI International Fellowship is a fully funded program that ensures its fellows can focus entirely on their research. The financial package is generous and competitive by international standards, covering all essential living costs in Germany.


Successful applicants will receive the following comprehensive benefits:

       

  • Generous Monthly Stipend: Fellows receive a substantial allowance of €3,000 per month (pre-tax). This amount is intended to cover accommodation, health insurance, and daily living expenses in Essen.

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  • Travel Reimbursement: The program provides partial reimbursement for round-trip travel expenses. This covers your arrival in Germany at the start of the fellowship and your return journey home upon completion.

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  • Modern Workspace: You will be provided with a fully equipped, modern office space within the KWI institute, giving you a professional environment to work daily.

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  • Administrative Support: Unlike many fellowships where you are on your own, KWI offers dedicated technical and administrative support to help with logistics, allowing you to focus on your work.


In addition to the financial perks, the academic environment is a major benefit. Fellows are expected to participate in the intellectual life of the institute, including lectures, reading groups, and workshops. You will have the chance to present your work to an international audience and receive feedback from peers across different disciplines.


Eligibility Criteria

This fellowship is highly competitive and is aimed at established researchers who have already demonstrated significant academic potential. To be considered, you must meet the following strict eligibility requirements:


       

  • Academic Qualification: Applicants must hold a PhD at the time of application. This program is not open to current PhD students.

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  • Post-Doctoral Experience: You must be within the early to mid-stages of your career. Specifically, applicants should have completed their PhD no more than six years prior to the start of the fellowship.

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  • Nationality: The program is open to international researchers from all countries. German citizens can only apply if they are currently employed at a university or research institute outside of Germany.

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  • Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English is mandatory as it is the working language of the institute. However, knowledge of the German language is not required, making this accessible to scholars worldwide.


Required Documents for Application

To apply, you must prepare a complete application package in English. All documents must be merged into a single PDF file (maximum size 20 MB). Incomplete applications or multiple separate files will not be accepted.


       

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV highlighting your academic career and achievements.

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  • List of Publications: A full list of your published books, articles, and papers.

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  • PhD Certificate: A copy of your doctoral degree certificate to prove eligibility.

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  • Project Proposal: A description of the research project you intend to undertake at KWI (Maximum 5,000 characters). This should clearly explain your research questions, methodology, and relevance to KWI’s research agenda.


How to Apply Step-by-Step

The application process for the KWI International Fellowship is streamlined and entirely digital. You do not need to mail physical documents.


       

  1. Step 1: Prepare Your Proposal

        Write a compelling project proposal that aligns with the research themes of the KWI Institute. Ensure your CV and publication list are up to date.

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  2. Step 2: Merge Documents

        Combine your CV, publication list, PhD certificate, and proposal into one single PDF file. Name the file clearly (e.g., "KWI_Application_YourName.pdf").

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  3. Step 3: Email Submission

        Send your application file via email to international.fellowship@uni-due.de. The subject line should indicate "Application for KWI International Fellowship".


Application Deadline: 28 February 2026