Title VIII Research Scholar Program 2025-26

American Councils for International Education: ACTR/ACCELS is pleased to announce the competition for the Title VIII Research Scholar Program and Title VIII combined Research and Language Training Program. All programs are three to nine consecutive months in duration. All Title VIII Research Scholar programs must take place between June 1, 2025, and August 31, 2026.

Eligibility for Title VIII Research Scholar Program:

• Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
• Applicants must be graduate students, Ph.D. candidates, faculty, or post-doctoral scholars.
• Applicants must be at least 18 years old by the application deadline.
• All funded research must contribute to a body of knowledge enabling the U.S. to better understand the region and formulate effective policies within it.
• Applicants must clearly describe the policy relevance of their work.

Application Process: 

The application should include the following components:

• A completed online application form, 
• Three to five-page research proposal including bibliography,
• The suggested program schedule, which includes monthly research objectives, 
• A 700-word summary of the research in the language of the host nation, 
• Essay on policy significance (1-2 pages),
• Updated resume or curriculum vitae,
• A photocopy of the interior page of the most recent U.S. passport that displays the passport number, expiration date, and photo, 
• Two recommendation letters,
• Official transcripts (of every course taken at the college or university for the previous five years, including summer courses).

Value of Title VIII Research Scholar Program:

The successful applicants can avail of the following benefits:

• Round-trip international travel,
• Housing and living stipends,
• Visa support,
• Health insurance of up to $100,000 per accident or illness,
• Archive access,
• Pre-departure informational materials,
• In-country logistical support,
• 24/7 emergency contact.