University of Iowa Obermann International Fellowships 2025, USA
The Obermann International Fellowships (OIF), hosted by the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies at the University of Iowa, are designed to bring outstanding international researchers and artists to the U.S. for a transformative academic experience.
These fellowships support independent research, foster global collaboration, and provide access to world-class academic resources and a vibrant scholarly community.
Degree Level
This is a fellowship-level program open to active international researchers and artists from accredited institutions outside the United States.
Fellowship Duration
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Fellowship duration: Minimum of 2 weeks, up to one semester
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Spring 2026 term: January 20 – May 8, 2026
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Applicants must clearly indicate their preferred start and end dates within this range
Eligible Subjects
This fellowship is open to all academic disciplines.
Fellowship Benefits
Each selected Obermann Fellow will receive:
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$2,000 stipend for travel and lodging expenses
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Health insurance coverage for the fellowship period
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Office space at the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies
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Temporary University of Iowa affiliation, including access to:
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Structured opportunities for scholarly exchange
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Official invitation letter for visa and institutional purposes
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Assistance with accommodations and living arrangements in Iowa City
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Visa support: The fellowship covers the $185 J-1 visa application fee. Applicants are responsible for the $220 SEVIS fee
Eligibility
Nationality: Open to all non-U.S. citizens
General Criteria
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Must be active researchers or artists at accredited institutions outside the U.S.
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Research must align with topics studied at the University of Iowa
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Strong command of English is required
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Must not have previously studied or worked at the University of Iowa
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Willingness to reside in Iowa City during the fellowship term
Academic Requirements
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No age restrictions
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PhD or terminal degree is preferred
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Applicants without a terminal degree may still apply, but must submit two reference letters
Application Process
Applicants must submit the following documents via the online application system:
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Curriculum Vitae (CV)
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Research proposal (maximum 2,000 words)
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One-page bibliography
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Two reference letters (if no terminal degree)
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Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS score, transcript, or video interview request)
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Completed online application form
Application Deadline: October 24, 2025 (by 17:00 CET)
Selection Process
Applications are evaluated based on:
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Academic and research quality of the proposal
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Alignment with the University of Iowa’s academic focus
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Potential impact and long-term scholarly contributions
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Previous work and recommendation letters
Notification of Results: November 2025
Why Apply?
The Obermann International Fellowship is a career-enhancing opportunity for global researchers and artists. It offers:
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Access to top-tier academic resources
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Opportunities to present your work internationally
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Collaboration with leading scholars in your field
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A welcoming and supportive academic community
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Temporary affiliation with a prestigious U.S. university
This fellowship encourages innovative thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration, making it ideal for scholars across a wide range of fields.
Contact and Further Information
For full program details and to apply, visit the official website of the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies.
