Scholarships

University of Iowa Obermann Scholarships In USA 2026 (Fully Funded)

21st April 20250 Comment0

Are you searching for a fully funded international research fellowship that provides travel support, health coverage, and dedicated office space at a leading U.S. research university? Look no further than the University of Iowa Obermann International Fellowships, designed to welcome international researchers and artists to Iowa City for independent work and collaboration at the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies. With competitive stipends, visa assistance, and rich scholarly exchanges, this program is a top choice for those seeking academic research fellowships in the USA for Spring 2026.

What Is the Obermann International Fellowship?

The Obermann International Fellowships are hosted by the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies at the University of Iowa, supported by the Center itself alongside International Programs and the Center for Social Science Innovation. Up to eight fellowships are awarded per academic year to outstanding researchers and practitioners from around the globe, enabling them to:

Develop new collaborations with University of Iowa faculty and peers
Pursue independent or joint research projects in a stimulating interdisciplinary environment
Access UI’s extensive library resources and participate in seminars, lectures, and workshops

Also Check: 600 Griffith University Scholarships In Australia 2025 (Funded)

Fellowship Benefits

Each Obermann International Fellow receives:

$2,000 stipend toward travel and lodging expenses

University of Iowa health insurance coverage for the entire fellowship period

Dedicated office space at the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies

Temporary UI affiliation, granting access to UI libraries and online journals

Structured scholarly exchange opportunities, including seminars and introductions to UI researchers

Official letter of invitation for visa and institutional purposes

Guidance on accommodations and local logistics

Also Check: CATS Fellowships In Berlin 2026 (Fully Funded)

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for an Obermann International Fellowship, applicants must:

Be active researchers or practitioners at accredited institutions outside the U.S., or independent researchers/artists with a strong track record.

Propose research directly relevant to University of Iowa programs.

Demonstrate excellence in scholarship, evidenced by publications or creative portfolios.

Commit to residing in Iowa City for the fellowship duration and engaging fully in Obermann activities.

Have sufficient English proficiency to participate in UI academic life.

Fellowships last a minimum of two weeks and up to one UI academic semester (Spring 2026: Jan 20 – May 8, 2026).

Application Process

Prepare Your Materials:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Proposed start and end dates (within Spring 2026 semester)
- Research proposal (max 2,000 words) linking your work to UI
- One‑page bibliography
- Two reference letters (if you lack a terminal degree)
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS score, transcript, or video interview request.

Submit Online Application:

Complete the Obermann Center’s application form by October 24, 2025 for Spring 2026 consideration.

Also Check: Vital Voices Global Fellowship In USA 2026 (Fully Funded)

Upon Acceptance:

Provide a passport photo page and proof of funds ($1,000 USD/month).

Complete UI’s international scholar paperwork (iHawk system).

Receive your DS‑2019 form and letter of invitation within 1–2 weeks.

Schedule your J‑1 visa appointment (Obermann covers the $185 visa fee; you pay the $220 SEVIS fee).