Harvard Radcliffe Fellowship 2026

The Harvard Radcliffe Fellowship is honestly one of the most prestigious fellowships I’ve ever come across. When I first heard about it, I thought it was just for Ivy League professors. But after digging deeper, I realized it’s designed for bold, creative thinkers from around the world — writers, scientists, social entrepreneurs, artists, historians, you name it.

Offered by the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study at Harvard University, this fully funded, one-year residential fellowship gives you the time, space, and resources to pursue your ambitious project — be it a book, a research study, or an art installation — while engaging with a dynamic community of fellows in one of the world’s most intellectually stimulating environments.

Fellowship Highlights 2026

Who Can Apply?

This fellowship is open to a wide range of backgrounds, but you must show exceptional achievement and a compelling project.

• Academic Applicants (Humanities/Social Sciences): Must hold a PhD or equivalent and have published work.

• Science/Engineering/Math Applicants: PhD required with significant research record.

• Creative Artists (Writers, Journalists, Filmmakers, Visual Artists, Musicians): No PhD required, but strong professional accomplishments and a solid body of work are essential.

• Public Policy/Practitioners: Leaders or innovators from public life or nonprofits may apply with a clear impact-driven proposal.

• Nationality: Open to applicants from any country.

Selection Process

It’s highly competitive — but transparent and fair. Here’s how it usually goes:

1. Online Application – Includes project proposal, CV, work samples, and references.

2. Review Process – Multi-level review by experts in your field.

3. Final Selection – Top candidates are notified around March 2026.

Tip: Your project proposal should show originality, clarity, and potential to spark meaningful conversations or discoveries.

Fellowship Benefits

The benefits are generous and designed to support both your work and personal life:

• Stipend: $78,000 for 9 months

• Project Expenses: Up to $5,000–10,000 extra support for materials, research travel, etc.

• Office/Studio Space: Fully equipped workspace in Harvard’s Radcliffe Yard

• Housing & Relocation: Limited housing support or relocation allowance

• Community: Collaborate with 50 fellows from 15+ disciplines

• Public Platform: Share your work at Harvard, publish, or host exhibitions

• Health & Childcare Support: Options available if needed

Documents Required

Here’s what you’ll need while applying:

• Updated CV/Resume

• Project Proposal (Max 1,250 words – this is the heart of your application)

• Work Samples (articles, book chapters, artwork, music, etc.)

• Recommendation Letters (usually 3 references)

• Proof of Degree (if applying as scholar/scientist)

How to Apply Online

1. Visit https://www.radcliffe.harvard.edu

2. Navigate to the Fellowships section

3. Select your discipline (Humanities, Science, Arts, etc.)

4. Register and complete the application form

5. Upload all required documents and submit before the deadline

Applications are usually discipline-specific, so make sure you follow the exact guidelines for your category.

Important Dates (2026 Fellowship Cycle)

FAQs – Harvard Radcliffe Fellowship 2026

• What is the last date to apply for Harvard Radcliffe Fellowship 2026?
→ September 12 (Arts) / October 3, 2024 (Academics/Scientists)

• Who is eligible to apply?
→ Scholars with PhDs, artists with a strong portfolio, and public thinkers with impactful ideas.

• Is there an age or nationality restriction?
→ No. It’s open to all nationalities and age groups.

• What is the stipend amount?
→ $78,000 for 9 months + project funds + relocation/housing aid.

• Is it a residential fellowship?
→ Yes. Fellows are expected to live and work in Cambridge, Massachusetts during the fellowship.

• Can I apply if I haven’t published yet?
→ Only if you’re an artist with professional credits. Scholars must have published work.