Learn about the National Humanities Center Fellowship Program 2025-2026, including eligibility, benefits, and application details for scholars in humanities, sciences, arts, and public life.
About
Applications are open for the National Humanities Center Fellowship Program 2025-2026.
This program is a chance for scholars to work on their projects, meet and share ideas with other scholars, and take a break from their usual academic duties to think deeply.
Fellows come to the Center’s glass and brick building every year and settle into their own studies that overlook a pine forest in Carolina.
These big offices are perfect for reading, thinking, and writing quietly. When Fellows want a change, the Center has many places inside and outside where they can work alone or talk with other scholars.
Fellowship payment
The amount of money given to each Fellow is decided based on what they need and what the Center can offer.
The Center tries to provide half of the Fellow’s salary, expecting that the Fellow’s home institution will pay the rest.
If Fellows get other grants or support from their institution during their fellowship, the Center’s stipend might be less.
Requirements
Must have a doctorate or similar scholarly qualifications
Mid-career and senior scholars are welcome
Newer scholars with a strong record of peer-reviewed work can apply
The Center does not support revising doctoral dissertations
Open to scholars from the humanities, natural and social sciences, arts, professions, and public life working on humanistic projects
Benefits
Significant Progress on Scholarly Projects : Fellows have dedicated time to focus deeply on their research and writing, allowing them to make substantial advancements on their projects without the usual distractions of daily academic duties.
Collaborative and Intellectual Community : The fellowship offers a unique opportunity to interact with a diverse group of scholars from various disciplines. Fellows can share ideas, receive feedback, and collaborate on interdisciplinary projects, enriching their own work through these interactions.
Rejuvenation and Reflection : The fellowship provides a break from the regular demands of academic life, offering time for rejuvenation and deep reflection. This hiatus allows scholars to return to their institutions with renewed energy and fresh perspectives.
Private and Well-Equipped Workspaces : Each Fellow is provided with a private study that overlooks the tranquil Carolina pine forest, offering an ideal environment for focused work. These spacious offices are equipped with all necessary resources to support their research activities.
Access to Extensive Resources : Fellows have access to the Center’s extensive library and digital resources, which support their research needs. This access ensures that they have all the materials they need to conduct thorough and comprehensive research.
Flexible Working Environment : The Center features various indoor and outdoor areas where Fellows can choose to work. Whether they prefer a quiet corner in the library, a comfortable lounge area, or a peaceful outdoor setting, the Center accommodates different working styles and preferences.
Supportive Administrative Staff : The Center’s staff provides excellent administrative support, assisting Fellows with any logistical needs. This support allows Fellows to focus entirely on their scholarly pursuits without worrying about administrative tasks.
Professional Development : Fellows have opportunities to participate in workshops, seminars, and lectures that enhance their professional development. These events cover a range of topics relevant to humanities scholars and provide additional learning and networking opportunities.
Potential Financial Support : The fellowship includes a stipend that is tailored to the needs of each Fellow. This financial support helps cover living expenses during the fellowship period, reducing financial stress and allowing scholars to concentrate on their research.
Recognition and Prestige : Being selected as a Fellow at the National Humanities Center is a prestigious honor that can enhance a scholar’s academic profile. This recognition can lead to further opportunities, such as invitations to conferences, speaking engagements, and collaborations.
Enhanced Research Outcomes : The focused time, access to resources, and collaborative environment often lead to high-quality research outcomes. Fellows are able to produce significant publications, complete major research projects, and make impactful contributions to their fields.
Application Process
The Center will start accepting applications for the 2025–26 academic year on July 1, 2024, with a deadline of October 3, 2024.
Applicants need to complete the online form and upload these documents:
- 1,000-word project proposal
- Short bibliography (up to two pages)
- Curriculum vitae (up to four pages)
- One-page outline of the project structure (for books, include chapter outline; otherwise, outline the project’s parts and progress)
Applicants also need to provide names and contact details for three references. References will get an email asking them to upload a recommendation letter by October 3, 2024.