Top Fully Funded Fellowships for 2025-2026: A Global Opportunity for Researchers

Applications are now open for a range of fully funded international fellowship programs commencing in 2025 and 2026. These prestigious opportunities, spanning diverse fields and locations, offer researchers invaluable experiences for professional development and global collaboration. From climate change initiatives to advancements in science and technology, these fellowships aim to foster innovation and address critical global challenges.

Global Fellowships Offer International Research Experience

These fully funded fellowships remove financial barriers, enabling researchers to focus on advancing their work. Participants can expect to collaborate with leading experts, access cutting-edge resources, and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries across various disciplines. The programs not only enhance academic profiles but also provide unique cultural experiences, broadening perspectives and fostering international networks.

“Fellowships play a crucial role in fostering international collaboration and accelerating research breakthroughs,” says Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading researcher in international education at the Global Research Institute. “By providing financial support and access to world-class resources, these programs empower researchers to pursue innovative projects and address pressing global challenges.”

Featured Fellowship Programs

Here's a detailed look at some of the top fully funded fellowship programs available for the 2025-2026 academic year:

Yale Emerging Climate Leaders Fellowship (USA & France)

Type: Fully Funded Host Countries: USA and France Host University: Yale Jackson School of Global Affairs, Yale University Coverage: Round-trip airfare, accommodation, transfers, and per diem for two in-person programs. Duration: 5 months Deadline: August 1, 2025 More Information: YALE Fellowship 2025

UN OHCHR Fellowship (Switzerland)

Type: Fully Funded Host Country: Switzerland Host Organisation: United Nations Coverage: Air tickets, basic health insurance, and stipend for accommodation and living expenses. Duration: November 10 - November 28, 2025 Deadline: June 30, 2025 More Information: UN OHCHR Fellowship 2025

Forrest Foundation Fellowship (Australia)

Type: Fully Funded Host Country: Australia Host Organisation: Forrest Research Foundation Coverage: Salary of $108,362 AUD plus 17% superannuation, accommodation allowance of $25,116 AUD per annum, research and travel allowance of $12,000 AUD. Duration: Up to 3 years Deadline: June 30, 2025 More Information: Forrest Fellowship 2025

McDonald Fellowships 2026 (Multiple Locations)

Type: Fully Funded Host Country: A neighboring country or the participant’s home country Host Institute: Can be outside or within the participant’s home country Coverage: €55,000 per year for two years, plus an additional contribution of GBP 2,000 per year. Duration: 2 years Deadline: December 1, 2025 More Information: McDonald Fellowship

COP30 CCMP Reporting Fellowship Program (Brazil)

Type: Fully Funded Host Country: Brazil Host Organisations: Earth Journalism Network (EJN), and the Stanley Center for Peace and Security Coverage: Air tickets, accommodation, meals, travel medical insurance, ground transportation, visa cost reimbursement, and a stipend. Duration: November 10-21, 2025 Deadline: July 15, 2025 More Information: COP30 Fellowship

JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship (Japan)

Type: Fully Funded Host Country: Japan Host University: Japanese universities or research centers Coverage: Round-trip air ticket, monthly allowance (JPY 362,000 with PhD, JPY 200,000 without), settling-in allowance (JPY 200,000), travel insurance, and research support (up to JPY 70,000 per month). Duration: 1-12 months Deadline: August 15, 2025 More Information: JSPS Fellowship

Harvard Radcliffe Institute Fellowship 2026-27 (USA)

Type: Fully Funded Host Country: USA Host Institute: Harvard Radcliffe Institute Coverage: $78,000 award, $5,000 for project expenses, relocation fund, housing fund, childcare fund, and healthcare assistance. Deadline: September 11, 2025 (Humanities, Social Sciences, and Creative Arts); September 30, 2025 (Science, Engineering, and Mathematics) More Information: Harvard Fellowship

ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Fellowship (Switzerland)

Type: Fully Funded Host Country: Switzerland Host University: ETH Zurich Coverage: Full salary coverage, CHF 10,000 per year for research expenses, and allowance for travel and mobility. Duration: 2 years Deadline: September 1, 2025 More Information: ETH Fellowship

ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowships (Austria)

Type: Fully Funded Host Country: Austria Host University: Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) Coverage: Full-time employment contract for 2 years (minimum €72,100 gross), social security benefits, allowance for various costs, on-site daycare, and visa support. Duration: 2 years Deadline: September 16, 2025 More Information: Click here for more.

The Importance of Fellowships: A Historical Perspective The concept of fellowships dates back centuries, evolving from religious orders providing stipends to scholars, to the modern, structured programs we see today. Organizations like the Rhodes Trust, established in 1902, set a precedent for international fellowships aimed at fostering global understanding and leadership. Today's fellowships build on this legacy, addressing contemporary challenges and promoting cross-cultural collaboration in an increasingly interconnected world.

"Fellowships are not just about funding; they are about investing in the future," explains Professor Kenji Tanaka, a specialist in international scholarship programs at the University of Tokyo. "They provide a platform for emerging leaders to develop their skills, expand their networks, and contribute meaningfully to society."

A Call to Action

Scholarships Corner encourages all eligible researchers to explore these exceptional fellowship opportunities. By applying to these programs, researchers can unlock their potential, contribute to global advancements, and embark on a transformative journey of personal and professional growth. Don't miss the chance to advance your career and make a lasting impact on the world.