Apply for the 2026 Obermann International Fellowship at the University of Iowa

Are you a Nigerian researcher or artist looking to pursue an international opportunity that supports your independent work while connecting you with a global network of scholars? The Obermann International Fellowship (OIF) might be the chance you’ve been waiting for.

Hosted by the University of Iowa’s Obermann Center for Advanced Studies, this fellowship supports international researchers and artists with flexible short-term residencies to deepen academic work, build meaningful collaborations, and engage with an intellectually vibrant community in Iowa City, USA.

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful applicants will enjoy:

• A $2,000 travel and lodging stipend (reimbursed)
• Health insurance coverage during your stay
• Dedicated office space at the Obermann Center
• Access to the University of Iowa facilities, including libraries and academic events
• An official letter of invitation for your visa application
• Support with practical needs like accommodation info
• Opportunities for networking with faculty and other fellows through lectures, seminars, and events

Fellows are encouraged to bring their research agendas and creative goals for the duration of their stay.

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: 24 October 2025
• Fellowship Period (Spring 2026): Between 20 January and 8 May 2026
• Duration: Minimum of 2 weeks; maximum of one academic semester

Eligibility Criteria:

• Open to non-U.S.-based researchers and artists with an active academic or creative practice.
• You must be affiliated with an accredited higher education institution or have a proven track record as an independent scholar or artist.
• Your research/creative project must align with a field of study or expertise represented at the University of Iowa.
• You should have a good command of English for full participation in academic life.
• Fellows must be ready to reside in Iowa City for the duration of their stay.

The fellowship is open to applicants of all nationalities, including Nigerians, and up to eight fellows will be selected for the academic year.

Visa Support

• You’ll receive help with the DS-2019 visa form process through the iHawk system.
• The Obermann Center will pay your $185 J-1 visa application fee.
• You’ll need to pay the $220 SEVIS fee (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System).

How to Apply

To apply online, you’ll need to submit:

• a curriculum vitae;
• desired start and end dates of fellowship (Spring 2026 fellowships must take place between January 20 and May 8, 2026);
• a research proposal, including a rationale of the project’s connection to the University of Iowa (maximum 2,000 words);
• a one-page bibliography related to the proposal;
• two reference letters (only required for applicants without a Ph.D. or other terminal degree); and
• proof of English proficiency (a TOEFL or IELTS score, a transcript, or a request for a video interview).

Once accepted, you’ll be asked to provide:

• A copy of your passport
• A financial statement showing a minimum of $1,000/month for living expenses (plus $500/month for each dependent)

Where to Learn More

Visit the Obermann International Fellowships (OIF) page for complete details and access to the online application portal.