The International Fellowship 2026 is a prestigious opportunity provided by the British Academy and the Royal Society , United Kingdom . This is a premier funding scheme aimed at attracting the world’s most promising post doctoral researchers to the UK . It provides a 2 year platform for scholars to establish an independent research career , gain international experience and build long lasting collaborative networks with UK based host institutions.
About the International Fellowship 2026
The International Fellowship is a merit-based award designed for high-achieving International researchers who demonstrate exceptional academic performance in research . It is available to students enrolling for PhD program. It is open to applicants who are doing PhD or have 5 years full time postdoctoral experience .
Objective of International Fellowship 2026
The Key objective are :
- To attract talented international researchers to conduct their research in UK.
- To support early career researchers in pursuing high quality education.
- To provide opportunities for skill acquisition and knowledge transfer through training and career development.
- To Foster long term relationships via networking opportunities and the international Fellowship alumni program.
Key Highlights of International Fellowship 2026
| Scholarship | International Fellowship 2026 by UK |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Target Audience | Phd Student or Post doctorate |
| Funding Level | 80% Full Economic Cost |
| Application deadline | 11 March 2026 |
| Article Category | Scholarship |
Eligibility Criteria
- Must hold a PHd
- Must have a 5 years of active full time postdoctoral experience at the time of application
- Applicants must work outside the UK at the time of application
- Must not be an UK citizen
- Must be competent in oral and written English
- Have a defined and mutually beneficial research proposal agreed with a UK host researcher
Assessment Process
Assessment of applicants for the scholarship :
- Eligibility Check: Verification of PHD status and residency requirements .
- Peer Review: Independent assessment by subjects matter experts focusing on the quality of the research proposal and the applicant’s potential .
- Panel Evaluation: Review by one of the four fellowship selection Panels ( based on discipline ) .
- Final Selection: Recommendations are made to the final Awards committee based on merit and strategic fit .
Financial Benefits
The selected candidates will receive a scholarship covering the full fees at 80% Full Time Economic Costing with research expenses upto £12,000 and Relocation costs of upto £8,000. AlumniFunding is also available after the fellowship to support networking activities with UK Based or international researchers.
Important Dates
- Start Date – 1 October 2025
- Scheme Opens– 15 January 2026
- Deadline – 11 March 2026
- Duration of Award – 24 months
Required Documents
- Research Proposal
- Cv or Resume
- Personal Statement
- Letter of Support from UK sponsor or HOD at the UK host institution
- Two or Three professional references from experts in the field
Features of International Fellowship 2026
- Interdisciplinary support: Encourages research that crosses traditional boundaries
- Global Mobility: Facilities the movement of talent into the UK’s Research ecosystem
- Flexibility: Provision for maternity , paternity or extended sick leave during the tenure
- Career Development: Access to training in leadership, communication and public engagement
Application Process of International Fellowship 2026
- Identify and contact a researcher in the UK Institution willing to mentor you.
- Create an account on the Flexi- Grant system or in the British academy GMS.
- Complete the registration with the required details.
- After registration, use the received credentials to log in to your account.
- The host institution then must approve the application on the portal before the deadline.
- Before submitting, review all the details provided.
- Lastly, click the “Submit” button before 17:00 GMT.
Helpline Number
- Mail: info@royalsociety.org & overseas@thebritishacademy.ac.u
FAQs – International Fellowship 2026
Sam is a dedicated scholarship writer who helps students find genuine financial aid opportunities. He explains eligibility, benefits, and application steps in simple English so students can easily apply without confusion. His goal is to make quality educational support easier to access for everyone.