The Institute of International Education’s Scholar Rescue Fund (IIE-SRF) provides critical support to professors and researchers facing threats to their lives or careers. Our fellowship program offers temporary academic positions at universities and higher education institutions worldwide, allowing scholars to continue their academic work in safety.
Application Process & Deadlines
No Application Deadline – IIE-SRF accepts new applications on a rolling basis throughout the year. Fellowships are awarded quarterly, providing flexibility for scholars in urgent situations.
Important Note: IIE-SRF typically cannot consider new applications from individuals whose original applications were previously declined.
Who Can Apply
Eligible Applicants:
- Professors, researchers, and public intellectuals from any country, field, or discipline
- Individuals who are underrepresented in their fields (applications especially encouraged)
Successful Applicants Typically Have:
- A Ph.D. or other highest degree in their field
- Teaching and/or research experience at a university or other institution of higher learning
- An established record of published research
- Are facing or have recently fled from direct and immediate threats to their lives and/or careers in their home countries
Who Cannot Apply
Unfortunately, IIE-SRF cannot consider applications from:
- Previous declined applicants to IIE-SRF
- Students or professionals seeking to pursue academic studies, including Ph.D. study
- Individuals displaced for more than two years or who have resided outside their home country for more than two years
- Individuals with citizenship or permanent status in a safe second country
- Applicants seeking support due to lack of resources or funds for research at their home institution
Fellowship Benefits
Financial Support:
- Up to $25,000 for a one-year appointment
- Individual health insurance coverage
- Relocation funding
- Professional development and advising resources
Additional Support:
- Dedicated support from IIE-SRF and partner institutions
- Support provided before, during, and after the fellowship
- Host institutions typically contribute additional salary/stipend support, housing, and other assistance
- Most fellowships are renewable for a second year
Program Impact
Since IIE-SRF’s founding in 2002:
- 1,100+ scholars supported from 62 countries
- Partnerships with 500+ institutions in 59 countries
- Ongoing commitment to protecting scholarly voices and ideas globally
Application Requirements & Process
Important Guidelines:
- AI tools discouraged: IIE-SRF strongly discourages the use of AI tools such as ChatGPT during the application process. Suspected use of AI-generated language will negatively impact assessment.
- Highly competitive: Due to high demand, only a small proportion of qualified applicants receive fellowship support.
- Confidential process: All application information is treated with complete confidentiality.
How to Apply:
- Visit the IIE-SRF website for detailed eligibility requirements and application process
- Submit applications via email to: srf@iie.org
- Applications reviewed quarterly on a rolling basis
Additional Opportunities
Refer a Scholar:
Know a threatened scholar who needs assistance? Contact SRF@iie.org to learn about the referral process.
Host an IIE-SRF Fellow:
Institutions interested in hosting fellows can visit the IIE-SRF website for partnership information.
Support the Program:
Support IIE-SRF’s mission by making a donation through their website.
Contact Information: Institute of International Education
Scholar Rescue Fund
One World Trade Center, 36th Floor
New York, NY 10007
Email: srf@iie.org
Website: www.ScholarRescueFund.org
IIE-SRF formalizes IIE’s unwavering commitment to protect the lives, voices, and ideas of scholars around the globe.
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