Obermann International Fellowships (OIF) 2026 in the USA for International Students | Fully Funded

Obermann International Fellowships (OIF) 2026

Are you an international researcher or artist envisioning a collaborative, innovative research experience in the United States? The Obermann International Fellowships (OIF), offered by the University of Iowa’s Obermann Center for Advanced Studies, present an opportunity for global scholars to engage in meaningful academic exchange at one of America’s most intellectually vibrant campuses.

This fully funded fellowship is designed to foster global research partnerships, deepen cross-cultural academic engagement, and spark long-term collaborations between international thinkers and the University of Iowa academic community. Let’s walk you through everything you need to know about this prestigious opportunity.

Fellowship Summary

  • Host Country: USA
  • Scholarship Category: Fellowship
  • Eligible Countries: All countries
  • Scholarship Benefits: $2,000 stipend, health insurance, etc.
  • Application Deadline for Spring 2026: October 24, 2025

What Are the Obermann International Fellowships (OIF)?

The Obermann International Fellowships (OIF) are competitive, fully-funded short-term research residencies for international scholars and artists. Designed for advanced researchers affiliated with non-U.S. institutions, this program enables recipients to spend between two weeks and one semester working independently or collaboratively at the Obermann Center, located in the picturesque city of Iowa City.

What Does the Fellowship Offer?

The OIF 2026 provides a well-rounded package to support scholars during their stay, allowing them to focus on meaningful research while integrating with the University of Iowa community.

Key Benefits:

  • $2,000 stipend for travel and lodging reimbursement
  • University of Iowa health insurance for the duration of the fellowship
  • Access to office space at the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies
  • Temporary academic affiliation, including full library access
  • Invitations to participate in seminars, lectures, and academic exchanges
  • An official letter of invitation to assist with visa and institutional arrangements
  • Guidance on housing and other practical needs

Visa Costs Covered:

  • The Obermann Center pays your $185 J-1 visa fee
  • You are responsible for the $220 SEVIS fee

While the stipend helps defray costs, applicants are encouraged to seek additional financial support from their home institutions.

Who Is Eligible?

Up to eight international fellowships are granted per academic year. To qualify:

  • You must be a researcher or artist based outside the U.S. at an accredited academic or research institution—or a recognized independent scholar.
  • Your research area must have an equivalent field at the University of Iowa.
  • Applicants should demonstrate academic excellence and potential to foster lasting collaboration.
  • Strong English proficiency is required, though it may be demonstrated through various methods including transcripts or interviews.
  • Fellows must be available to reside in Iowa City and actively participate in Center events during the fellowship.

Flexible Fellowship Duration

The fellowship is highly adaptable to your schedule. Scholars may stay for a minimum of two weeks or up to one semester, depending on their goals and project needs.

For Spring 2026, the fellowship term must fall between January 20 and May 8, 2026.

How to Apply?

The application process is entirely online. Prospective fellows must submit:

  1. A detailed curriculum vitae
  2. Proposed dates of stay (must fall within Spring 2026)
  3. A 2,000-word research proposal explaining the relevance of your project to the University of Iowa
  4. A one-page bibliography
  5. Two letters of recommendation (for those without a terminal degree)
  6. Proof of English proficiency

After acceptance, you’ll be required to submit:

  • A passport photo page
  • A financial statement showing at least $1,000 per month in available funds
  • Additional information through Iowa’s international scholar system (iHawk) to process your DS-2019 visa document

Click here to Get Admission or Scholarship CV or Statement of Purpose/Motivation Letter from a Professional.

Obermann International Fellowships (OIF) 2026

Obermann International Fellowships (OIF) 2026

Obermann International Fellowships (OIF) 2026

Obermann International Fellowships (OIF) 2026

Obermann International Fellowships (OIF) 2026

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