The Harvard Radcliffe Institute Fellowship Program offers an exceptional opportunity for outstanding scholars, writers, artists, scientists, and public intellectuals from around the world. Selected fellows spend a year at Harvard’s Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study, immersing themselves in a project of their choice and engaging in a rich interdisciplinary environment that promotes collaboration, creativity, and public impact.
What is the Radcliffe Fellowship? #
The Radcliffe Fellowship is a prestigious, fully-funded residential program at Harvard University that brings together 50 individuals annually who have made significant contributions in their respective fields and have the potential to shape the future of academia, science, arts, and public life.
Fellows receive:
- Time and space to focus on a specific project.
- Access to Harvard’s resources, including libraries, archives, and academic networks.
- An intellectually vibrant and socially engaging community.
- The opportunity to collaborate with Harvard College students through the Radcliffe Research Partnership Program.
Eligibility Criteria #
The fellowship is open to applicants worldwide and seeks diversity across:
- Discipline and career stage
- Gender and sexual orientation
- Race and ethnicity
- Nationality and country of origin
- Ideological perspective
Who can apply?
- Individuals with a record of excellence in their field.
- Artists, writers, scholars, scientists, public policy experts, and public intellectuals.
- Both individual applicants and pairs working on a collaborative project are welcome.
Educational qualifications:
While there is no strict degree requirement, applicants are expected to have significant professional or academic experience that demonstrates expertise and impact in their domain.
Areas of Focus (Recommended but Not Mandatory) #
Proposals across all disciplines are welcome. However, Radcliffe encourages submissions aligned with its multi-year focus themes:
- Academic freedom and bridging ideological divides
- Peace, conflict, and inequality
- Climate change and environmental justice
- Women, gender, and society
- Innovative STEM projects impacted by federal funding reductions
Projects that draw on the Schlesinger Library’s rich collections or focus on historical and contemporary issues related to gender and social justice are especially encouraged.
Fellowship Benefits #
Here’s what selected fellows can expect:
- Stipend: Up to $78,000 (with additional funds for project expenses, relocation, and housing)
- Duration: 9 months (academic year 2026–2027)
- Location: Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA
- Support: Access to Harvard’s resources, administrative assistance, professional development, and networking
- Research Partners: Fellows may work with Harvard undergraduates as research assistants
- Participation: Fellows must engage in regular seminars, discussions, and community events
Application Timeline and Deadlines #
Two separate deadlines apply depending on the discipline of the project:
- For Humanities, Social Sciences, and Creative Arts:
Deadline – September 11, 2025, 11:59 PM (Eastern Time) - For Science, Engineering, and Mathematics:
Deadline – September 30, 2025, 11:59 PM (Eastern Time)
How to Apply #
Application Mode: Online only
Application Portal: Visit the official Harvard Radcliffe Institute website https://www.radcliffe.harvard.edu/radcliffe-fellowship/become-a-radcliffe-fellow
Required Materials:
- Project proposal (up to 1300 words)
- CV/resume
- Work samples (published articles, creative work, academic publications, etc.)
- Three recommendation letters
- Contact details
- Optional: Personal statement or supporting documentation
Step-by-Step Guide to Fill the Form:
- Register: Create an account on the application portal.
- Profile Setup: Complete your personal and professional information.
- Upload Proposal: Clearly define the project’s aim, scope, relevance, and innovation.
- Submit References: Invite recommenders early to ensure timely submission.
- Attach Samples: Provide 1–3 samples relevant to your project and discipline.
- Final Review: Ensure all fields are complete and documents are in required format.
- Submit: Before the applicable deadline.
Selection Process #
The Radcliffe Fellowship is highly competitive. Applications are evaluated based on:
- Originality and quality of the proposed project
- Applicant’s past achievements and future potential
- Relevance to Radcliffe’s mission and focus areas
- Ability to contribute to an interdisciplinary community
Frequently Asked Questions #
Can I apply as a team?
Yes. Two individuals working on a joint project may apply together.
Is the fellowship open to international applicants?
Absolutely. Radcliffe welcomes applicants from all over the globe.
Do I need to have an affiliation with Harvard?
No. Independent scholars and artists are equally encouraged to apply.
Can early-career professionals apply?
Yes. Applicants at all career stages who show promise and creativity are eligible.
