University of Iowa USA Obermann International Fellowships 2026

Description

The Obermann International Fellowships (OIF) at the University of Iowa’s Obermann Center for Advanced Studies offer a unique opportunity for international researchers and artists to engage in collaborative and interdisciplinary research in the vibrant academic community of Iowa City. This prestigious fellowship program fosters global academic exchange, bringing scholars from diverse regions such as Kosovo, Mexico, Germany, Nigeria, and South Africa to the University of Iowa. If you’re an international scholar or artist seeking funding for research, access to world-class resources, and a platform to collaborate with leading academics, the OIF is your gateway to an enriching experience.

What Are the Obermann International Fellowships?

The Obermann International Fellowships are designed to attract international researchers and artists to the University of Iowa to pursue innovative projects and forge lasting scholarly connections. Funded by the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies, with additional support from International Programs and the Center for Social Science Innovation (CSSI), this program supports up to eight fellows per academic year. The fellowships are open to active researchers from accredited institutions outside the U.S. or independent researchers and artists with a proven track record of excellence.

The program aligns with the University of Iowa’s mission to prepare students and faculty for success in a diverse, global environment while promoting cutting-edge research. Whether you’re working in the humanities, social sciences, or the arts, the OIF provides a platform to advance your research agenda while engaging with the University of Iowa’s academic community.

Degree Level

University of Iowa USA Obermann International Fellowships 2026 is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at University of Iowa.

Available Subjects

Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.

Center for Social Science Innovation (CSSI) Co-Sponsorship

The Obermann Center partners with the Center for Social Science Innovation (CSSI) to co-sponsor one international fellow per semester focused on innovative social science research. This opportunity is ideal for researchers aiming to collaborate with UI’s social science community or develop projects in areas such as survey research, multimethodology, or grant development. Applicants can indicate their interest in CSSI co-sponsorship on the online application, and collaboration with a CSSI researcher affiliate is not required.

Benefits

The OIF offers a comprehensive support package to ensure fellows can focus on their research. Key benefits include:

1. $2,000 Stipend: A reimbursement to help cover travel and lodging expenses, with fellows encouraged to secure additional funding from their home institutions.
2. Health Insurance: University of Iowa health insurance coverage for the duration of the fellowship, mandatory for J-1 visa holders.
3. Office Space: Dedicated workspace at the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies.
4. University Affiliation: Temporary affiliation with the University of Iowa, including access to UI libraries and resources.
5. Scholarly Exchange Opportunities: Structured opportunities such as seminars, lectures, and introductions to UI researchers to foster collaboration.
6. Visa Support: An official letter of invitation and assistance with the DS-2019 form for J-1 visa applications. The Obermann Center covers the $185 J-1 visa application fee, though fellows are responsible for the $220 SEVIS fee.

These benefits make the OIF an attractive option for international scholars looking to advance their research while building global academic networks.

Eligible Nationalities

Open to applicants of all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Obermann International Fellowships, applicants must be active researchers at an accredited institution outside the U.S. or independent researchers/artists with a strong portfolio. Their research must align with disciplines offered at the University of Iowa, and they must demonstrate sufficient English proficiency to participate in academic activities. The fellowship duration is flexible, ranging from a minimum of two weeks to a full UI academic semester (e.g., Spring 2026: January 20–May 8, 2026).

The application process is straightforward and completed online. Required materials include:

1. A curriculum vitae (CV)
2. Proposed fellowship start and end dates
3. A research proposal (up to 2,000 words) outlining the project and its connection to the University of Iowa
4. A one-page bibliography related to the proposal
5. Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, academic documentation, or a video interview)
6. Two reference letters (for applicants without a Ph.D. or terminal degree)

Applications for Spring 2026 fellowships are due by October 24, 2025. Successful applicants will receive a letter of invitation and DS-2019 form to facilitate their J-1 visa application. For more details, visit the Obermann Center’s official OIF page.

Application Procedure

How to Apply for the Obermann International Fellowships

Ready to take your research to the next level? Apply for the Obermann International Fellowships by submitting your application online by October 24, 2025, for Spring 2026. For questions, contact Obermann Center Director Luis Martín-Estudillo at luis-martin-estudillo@uiowa.edu. Don’t miss this opportunity to join a global network of scholars at one of the leading research institutions in the United States.

Why Choose the Obermann International Fellowships?

The OIF program stands out for its commitment to fostering global academic collaboration. As highlighted by Spring 2025 fellow Ercan Canhasi from Kosovo, “My time at the University of Iowa was an unforgettable experience. The welcoming and supportive environment made a huge difference…I leave with new research collaborations, expanded professional networks, and a deep appreciation for the University of Iowa’s commitment to academic excellence and global engagement.”

Fellows like Rasheedah Liman from Nigeria and Gabriela Román Fuentes from Mexico have also made significant contributions to the UI community, from eco-theatre projects to creative works exploring illness and poetics. These examples demonstrate the program’s impact on both fellows and the University of Iowa.

Join the Global Academic Community at Iowa

The Obermann International Fellowships offer a transformative opportunity for international scholars and artists to advance their research, collaborate with University of Iowa faculty, and contribute to a vibrant academic community. Apply today to become part of this global network and take your research to new heights.