Are you a passionate scholar or artist seeking an opportunity to immerse yourself in a globally engaging academic environment in the U.S.? The Obermann International Fellowships (OIF) at the University of Iowa warmly invites researchers from across the world to apply for a flexible, short-term residency to pursue collaborative or independent research at one of America’s top public research universities.
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What Is the Obermann International Fellowship?
Offered by the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies, with generous support from International Programs and the Center for Social Science Innovation (CSSI), the OIF program brings up to eight international scholars and artists per academic year to Iowa City. The initiative supports interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-cultural exchange, welcoming those whose research aligns with academic offerings at the University of Iowa.
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Fellows benefit from structured scholarly activities, independent research time, and meaningful engagements with faculty, students, and the vibrant university community.
What the Fellowship Offers?
- Funding Support: A $2,000 stipend to assist with travel and lodging costs. Fellows are expected to supplement remaining expenses through personal or home institution funding.
- Health Coverage: University of Iowa health insurance for the entire duration of the fellowship (mandatory for J-1 visa holders).
- Work Environment: Dedicated office space at the Obermann Center and temporary University of Iowa affiliation, including access to libraries and campus facilities.
- Scholarly Engagements: Opportunities to present work, join UI seminars, collaborate with faculty, and participate in academic exchange.
- Official Documents: Visa support including a letter of invitation, DS-2019 form, and coverage of the $185 J-1 visa application fee (note: applicants must pay the $220 SEVIS fee).
- Practical Support: Guidance on housing, local logistics, and integration into the campus ecosystem.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Obermann International Fellowship for Spring 2026, you must:
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- Be an active researcher or artist at an accredited institution of higher education outside the U.S., or an independent scholar with a proven track record.
- Propose a research agenda that aligns with academic disciplines offered at the University of Iowa.
- Be proficient in English, proven via TOEFL/IELTS scores, academic transcripts, or a video interview.
- Plan to reside in Iowa City and fully participate in Obermann Center activities during your fellowship period.
- Have proof of sufficient financial means, showing at least $1,000 per month for personal expenses during your stay ($500/month per J-2 dependent if applicable).
- Submit two reference letters only if you do not hold a terminal degree (Ph.D. or equivalent).
Duration of stay must range between two weeks and one academic semester, with Spring 2026 fellowships scheduled between January 20 and May 8, 2026.
Application Process – How to Apply?
To apply for the Spring 2026 OIF, submit an online application with the following materials:
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- Curriculum Vitae
- Desired start and end dates for the fellowship
- A research proposal (max 2,000 words) explaining your project and its relevance to UI
- A one-page bibliography
- Two reference letters (if no Ph.D. or terminal degree)
- Proof of English proficiency
- Indicate whether you would like to be considered for a CSSI co-sponsored fellowship (for social science-focused research)
Once selected, scholars must complete the UI international scholars system (iHawk) forms and submit passport details and financial documentation. Following this, visa processing support documents and invitations will be issued.
Apply: https://obermann.uiowa.edu/obermann-international-fellowships
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the Obermann International Fellowship for Spring 2026 is October 24, 2025.
DATE . May/18/2025