May 20th, 2025 at 09:37 am
Study in USA | University of Iowa Obermann International Fellowships 2026
The Obermann International Fellowships at the University of Iowa welcome researchers and creative people from around the world to apply for a short-term stay to work on collaborative or independent research. Hosted by the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies, the program supports up to eight international scholars and artists annually, promoting interdisciplinary cooperation and cross-cultural interaction. Fellows benefit from academic activities, research time, and connections with faculty, students, and the vibrant university community.
Fellowship Benefits
- Financial Assistance: A $2,000 allowance to help cover travel and accommodation expenses. Fellows are anticipated to cover the remaining costs with personal funds or support from their home institution.
- Health Coverage: The University of Iowa provides health coverage for the full length of the fellowship (required for J-1 visa holders).
- Work Environment: Committed office area at the Obermann Center and short-term association with the University of Iowa, granting access to libraries and campus amenities.
- Scholarly Engagements: Chances to showcase research, attend UI seminars, partner with instructors, and engage in scholarly exchanges.
- Official Documents: Visa assistance comprising a letter of invitation, the DS-2019 form, and payment of the $185 J-1 visa application fee (note: applicants are responsible for the $220 SEVIS fee).
- Practical Assistance: Direction on housing, local transportation, and assimilation into the campus environment.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Fellowship, you must:
- Be an engaged researcher or artist at a recognized institution of higher education outside the U.S., or an independent scholar with demonstrated achievements.
- Suggest a research plan that corresponds with the academic fields available at the University of Iowa.
- Demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL/IELTS results, academic records, or a video interview.
- Intend to live in Iowa City and actively engage in Obermann Center events throughout your fellowship term.
- Provide evidence of adequate financial resources, demonstrating a minimum of $1,000 monthly for personal expenses while you’re here ($500/month for each J-2 dependent if relevant).
- If you don’t have a terminal degree (like a Ph.D. or something similar), just send in two reference letters.
The fellowship period should last anywhere from two weeks to a full academic semester, with the Spring 2026 fellowships scheduled to run from January 20 to May 8, 2026.
Required Documents
- Resume (CV)
- Preferred beginning and concluding dates for the fellowship.
- A research proposal (up to 2,000 words) detailing your project and its significance to UI.
- A bibliography of one page
- Two letters of recommendation (if lacking a Ph.D. or terminal degree)
- Proof of English competency
- Please specify if you wish to be considered for a CSSI co-sponsored fellowship aimed at research focused on social sciences.
After being chosen, scholars are required to fill out the UI international scholars system (iHawk) forms and provide their passport information and financial documents. Subsequently, invitations and documents for visa processing support will be provided.
How to Apply for the Obermann International Fellowships 2026
Deadline for Applications: October 24, 2025.
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