About the opportunity
The Chevening Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS) Fellowship is a collaboration between the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and the OCIS. It is open to applications from mid-career professionals and academics who are dedicated to promoting academic activities that encourage a more informed understanding of the culture and civilisation of Islam and contemporary Muslim societies. Fellows will learn how to engage with complex global challenges through the lens of Islamic thought, diplomacy, and contemporary policy, while deepening their understanding of international relations, interfaith dialogue, and leadership in diverse cultural contexts. The fellowship offers a unique opportunity for six exceptional candidates to undertake self-directed research focusing on their own project at the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies.
Funding and benefits
- Five-month period of research at OCIS
- Living expenses for the duration of the fellowship
- Return economy airfare
- Allowance package for research-related activities
Who can apply?
- Be a citizen of one of the eligible countries and resident in one of these countries at the point of application
- Hold a postgraduate level qualification (or equivalent professional training or experience in a relevant area) at the time of application
- Have significant professional and/or academic research experience (at least five years)
Required documents
- Short proposal on the area of academic research you would like to conduct, including a main research question and how you intend to conduct this research while in residence at the centre
When to apply
- Open for applications until 6 October 2026, at 11:00 (UTC)
How to apply
- Submit an online application through the Chevening platform including a short research proposal
- Attend a first-round interview with British embassies and high commissions to discuss suitability, motivations, and research interests
- If successful, attend a second and final interview with representatives from OCIS focusing further on research interests
Additional information
- The duration of this fellowship is five months, running from October to March.
- Under recent UK Government legislation, Afghanistan and Sudan citizens are unable to obtain a Study Visa to enter the UK; however, this does not affect fellowship visa routes, and Afghanistan and Sudan citizens remain eligible to apply.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Mid-career professionals or academics with at least five years of relevant experience
- Researchers focused on Islamic thought, contemporary Muslim societies, or interfaith dialogue
- Individuals looking for a dedicated period of self-directed research in a prestigious academic environment
What should you think carefully about?
- The fellowship is short-term (five months), which may require careful planning for your current professional or academic commitments
- You must be able to articulate a clear, actionable research proposal for your time at the OCIS
- Verify your eligibility regarding UK visa requirements, especially if you are from a country with specific travel restrictions
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fellowship is a powerful tool for those looking to deepen their expertise and influence policy or academic discourse. It offers a rare, focused window of time to advance a specific research project while engaging with a community of scholars at Oxford.
Our take
Mid-career professionals and academics with a clear research agenda should apply, as this is a highly targeted opportunity for intellectual and professional growth.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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