Applications are now open for the Kennan Institute Digital Fellowship 2026–2027, a prestigious fully funded virtual fellowship for researchers, scholars, journalists, and policy experts from around the world. Organized by the Kennan Institute, this international program supports original research and high-quality non-fiction writing on Russia and the former Soviet Union, while helping fellows share their work with policymakers and the wider public.
The fellowship runs for six months, from late October 2026 to March 2027, and is conducted entirely online. During the program, fellows will receive financial support, participate in monthly virtual meetings, collaborate with the Kennan Institute’s editorial team, and publish an article aimed at both the public and the Washington, DC policy community. Upon successful completion, participants will join the Kennan Institute’s global alumni network, creating long-term opportunities for collaboration and professional development.
Designed to strengthen intellectual exchange and support policy-relevant research, the Digital Fellowship offers an excellent platform for participants to expand their professional networks, engage with leading experts, and contribute meaningful research to the field of Russian and Eurasian Studies.
Kennan Institute Digital Fellowship 2026–2027 Overview
- Host Country: United States (Virtual Program)
- Host Organization: Kennan Institute
- Programme Type: International Digital Fellowship
- Mode: Fully Virtual
- Duration: 6 Months
- Fellowship Period: Late October 2026 – March 2027
- Scholarship Coverage: Fully Funded
- Eligible Countries: All Nationalities
- Research Focus: Russia and Eurasian Studies
- Application Deadline: 14 August 2026
Fellowship Objectives
The Kennan Institute Digital Fellowship aims to:
- Support high-quality research and non-fiction writing on Russia and Eurasia.
- Encourage research that contributes to public policy and academic discussions.
- Provide fellows with financial support, mentorship, and professional guidance.
- Help participants publish research for policymakers and the general public.
- Build an international network of researchers, journalists, and policy professionals.
- Promote collaboration through regular virtual meetings and knowledge exchange.
- Connect fellows to the Kennan Institute’s global alumni network for long-term professional engagement.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Open to researchers, academics, journalists, policy experts, and other professionals working on Russia and/or the broader Eurasian region.
- Applicants should have several years of experience researching, studying, or working on topics related to Russia or Eurasia.
- Must demonstrate a strong interest in original research and public scholarship.
- Applicants should be seeking opportunities to strengthen their research, expand their professional network, and increase the impact of their work.
- A good working knowledge of English is required.
- Fellows must be able to research, write, and publish in English.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
- Monthly stipend of $2,000 for six months.
- Mentorship and consultation from the Kennan Institute’s network of experts.
- Access to six exclusive virtual webinars tailored to the fellowship cohort.
- Membership in the Kennan Institute’s alumni network of more than 4,500 professionals worldwide.
- Opportunities to collaborate with leading scholars, journalists, and policy experts.
- Professional networking and international research exposure.
- Editorial support for developing and publishing policy-relevant research.
What the Fellowship Does Not Cover
- Travel expenses.
- Visa costs.
- Any travel-related expenses, as the fellowship is conducted entirely online.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:
- Completed online application form.
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé.
- Research proposal outlining the proposed project.
- Writing sample or publication (if required).
- Statement of purpose or motivation letter.
- List of publications or professional achievements (if applicable).
- Any additional supporting documents requested by the Kennan Institute.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for the Kennan Institute Digital Fellowship 2026–2027:
- Visit the official Kennan Institute Fellowship webpage.
- Read the fellowship guidelines and eligibility requirements carefully.
- Prepare all required application documents.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload your research proposal and supporting documents.
- Review your application for accuracy and completeness.
- Submit your application before the 14 August 2026 deadline.
Application Deadline
Last Date to Apply: 14 August 2026
Applications submitted after the deadline may not be considered.
Apply Now
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Kennan Institute Digital Fellowship fully funded?
Yes. Selected fellows receive a $2,000 monthly stipend for six months, along with mentorship, webinars, and access to the Kennan Institute’s global alumni network.
Is the fellowship conducted online?
Yes. The fellowship is 100% virtual, allowing participants to take part from anywhere in the world.
Who can apply?
Researchers, academics, journalists, policy professionals, and experts working on Russia or Eurasian Studies from any country are eligible to apply.
Do I need to travel to the United States?
No. The fellowship is conducted entirely online, and no travel is required.
Is IELTS or TOEFL required?
There is no formal IELTS or TOEFL requirement, but applicants must have a good working knowledge of English.
How long is the fellowship?
The fellowship lasts six months, from late October 2026 to March 2027.
What research topics are supported?
The fellowship supports original research and non-fiction writing related to Russia, the former Soviet Union, and the broader Eurasian region, especially work with policy relevance.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is 14 August 2026.
