Overview

The Urban Studies Foundation (USF) International Fellowships 2026 provide a powerful opportunity for early-to-mid-career urban scholars from the Global South to advance their academic careers and produce high-impact publications.

Eligibility

Hold a PhD awarded within the last 10 years.
Be an early-to-mid-career urban scholar.
Be a national of an OECD DAC-listed ODA recipient country.
Be affiliated with a research institution in an eligible country.
Have completed primary data collection and analysis.
Be ready to produce publishable academic outputs.

Benefits

Accommodation and living expenses.
Return international travel.
Contribution toward research-related costs.
Mentor engagement support.
Shortlisted candidates may apply for supplementary funding for caring responsibilities or disability-related costs.

How to Apply

Submit the following information:
1. Applicant Information
- Contact details
- Academic background
- Career statement
- Proof of nationality
- Two academic referees
2. Fellowship Proposal
- Timeline and proposed dates
- Host institution details
- Mentorship arrangements
3. Budget Plan
- Detailed cost breakdown
- Supporting evidence for expenses above GBP 500
4. Research Proposal
- Overview of research
- Planned outputs
- Justification for host institution
- Role of mentor
5. Supporting Documents
- Applicant CV (max 3 pages)
- Mentor CV (max 3 pages)
- Mentor support letter (max 2 pages)
For more details, visit the application page at Urban Studies Foundation.