The Obermann International Fellowships (OIF), hosted by the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies at the University of Iowa, offer an excellent opportunity for international researchers and artists to conduct independent work, build academic collaborations, and contribute to the scholarly environment at the University of Iowa. These fellowships are designed to support researchers and artists from around the world by providing financial support, workspace, and access to university resources.
Applications are now open for Spring 2026, with the deadline for submissions set for October 24, 2025. This fellowship allows successful candidates to engage with the University of Iowa’s academic community and collaborate with scholars in their respective fields.
University of Iowa USA Obermann International Fellowships 2025 is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at University of Iowa.
- The fellowship term is flexible: applicants may apply for a stay of minimum two weeks to a maximum of one semester
- The Spring 2026 fellowship will occur between January 20 and May 8, 2026
- Applicants must specify their desired start and end dates within this timeframe
Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.
- All Subjects
Each selected Obermann Fellow will receive the following benefits:
- $2,000 stipend to help defray travel and lodging expenses
- University of Iowa health insurance coverage for the duration of the fellowship
- Office space at the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies
- Temporary University affiliation, including access to UI libraries
- Structured opportunities for scholarly exchange, including seminars, lectures, and introductions to University of Iowa researchers
- Official invitation letter for institutional and visa purposes
- Information about accommodations and other practical needs in Iowa City
- $2,000 stipend is provided to cover travel, lodging, and other expenses.
- Health insurance coverage for the duration of the fellowship
- The Obermann Center will also cover the $185 J-1 visa application fee. However, applicants must cover the $220 non-refundable SEVIS fee.
This fellowship is open to applicants of all nationalities except USA.
To be eligible for the Obermann International Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Non-U.S. citizens who are active researchers or artists at accredited institutions outside the United States
- Research topics that align with those conducted at the University of Iowa
- Applicants should have a solid command of English to participate in academic activities
- Fellowship applicants must not have previously studied or worked at the University of Iowa
- Applicants should plan to reside in Iowa City during the term of their fellowship
Age and Academic Requirements:
- The fellowship is open to all nationalities, with no specific age restrictions
- While applicants with a PhD or terminal degree are preferred, applicants without such degrees may also apply with two reference letters
Application Procedure
The application process for the Obermann International Fellowship includes submitting the following documents via the
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal (maximum 2,000 words)
- One-page bibliography
- Two reference letters (for applicants without a terminal degree)
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS score, transcript, or video interview request)
- Completed application form via the online portal
Applications should be submitted no later than October 24, 2025.
The Obermann Fellowship is competitive, with applications evaluated based on:
- Academic and research quality of the proposal
- Alignment of the proposed work with the University of Iowa’s research focus
- Scholarly impact and potential lasting contributions to the field
- Letters of reference and previous work experience
Candidates will be notified of the final decision by November 2025.
- Application Deadline: October 24, 2025 (by 17:00 CET)
- Notification of Results: November 2025
- Fellowship Start Date: Between January 20 and May 8, 2026
The Obermann International Fellowship offers researchers and artists a unique opportunity to:
- Access world-class academic resources at the University of Iowa
- Develop and expand collaborations with leading scholars in your field
- Present your work to an international audience through seminars and lectures
- Enjoy a supportive academic community and gain a temporary affiliation with a top U.S. university
The fellowship fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and encourages innovative academic exploration, making it an ideal opportunity for researchers from a wide range of disciplines.
For more details, please visit the
This fellowship offers an unparalleled opportunity to enhance your academic career and collaborate with global scholars in the U.S. Apply today and contribute to the dynamic intellectual community at the University of Iowa.
DEADLINE: 24/10/2025
DETAILS HERE: LINK