The British Institute for the Study of Iraq (BISI) is delighted to announce that applications are now open for the Visiting Iraqi Scholarship Programme. This initiative offers a unique opportunity for Iraqi scholars, cultural heritage professionals, and NGO workers to engage in short-term research, training, and collaborative projects in the United Kingdom.

The annual application deadline is 1 December, and each year, between two to four Visiting Scholarships are awarded. Successful applicants will spend up to two months in the UK working with partner institutions on projects focused on Iraq’s rich history, society, and culture—from the earliest civilizations to the modern era.

About the Programme

The Visiting Iraqi Scholarship Programme is designed to strengthen the research and cultural heritage environment in Iraq by supporting the professional development of Iraqi scholars and practitioners. It aims to enhance their capacity to contribute to the sustainable development of Iraq’s cultural heritage and intellectual life.

Eligible projects must focus on topics related to Iraq’s past and present across various disciplines, including:

• Anthropology

• Archaeology

• History

• Geography

• Languages

• Arts, humanities, and social sciences

The scholarships are open to Iraqi nationals currently residing in Iraq, including those based in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). Applicants must clearly demonstrate how their participation in the programme will contribute to cultural or academic development upon their return.

Scholarship Coverage

Each Visiting Scholarship provides comprehensive support to enable recipients to make the most of their time in the UK. The award includes:

• Research and institutional costs, such as access to libraries or archives.

• Travel expenses, including international flights and visa fees.

• Accommodation and living allowance during the stay in the UK.

• Travel insurance and guidance on visas and logistics.

Scholars typically stay with host families or in university accommodations and are expected to work independently on their projects while benefiting from mentorship and access to UK-based research resources.

The scholarship does not cover:

• Salaries or stipends from home institutions.

• Long-term or full-time university course fees.

• English language courses.

• Medical or dental expenses.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the Visiting Iraqi Scholarship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be Iraqi nationals residing in Iraq (including the Kurdistan Region).

• Have a UK host institution willing to support their project.

• Hold an active Iraqi bank or savings account.

• Demonstrate sufficient English language proficiency to benefit from the placement.

• Submit a clear and feasible project plan aligned with BISI’s objectives.

The programme welcomes PhD students, academics, and cultural heritage professionals. However, previous recipients of the BISI Visiting Scholarship or Nahrein Network Scholarship are not eligible to reapply.

Application Process

Applicants can apply online or offline.

To apply online:

1. Visit the BISI website and click “Apply Online.”

2. Complete the application form.

3. Upload a letter of permission from your home institution and a letter of invitation from your UK host.

4. Review the application checklist before submission.

To apply offline:

1. Download and complete the application form.

2. Include both the home and host institution letters.

3. Combine all documents into one PDF.

4. Submit the completed application to a.khadr@thebritishacademy.ac.uk.

Applications without a UK host will not be considered.

Assessment and Selection

Applications are evaluated based on:

• The importance and originality of the proposed research.

• The qualifications and experience of the applicant.

• The quality and feasibility of the project plan.

• The suitability of the UK host institution.

• The potential impact on Iraq’s academic and cultural sectors.

Successful applicants will receive an official award letter and must sign a Visiting Scholars Agreement before traveling. Scholars are required to begin their placement within 12 months of being notified of their award.

This programme is generously supported by the Meditor Trust’s donation to the new BISI Fund for Iraq, reflecting an ongoing commitment to promoting academic collaboration and cultural preservation.

Application Deadline

Deadline: 1 December (annually)
Duration: Up to two months in the UK
Eligibility: Iraqi nationals currently residing in Iraq

For inquiries, visit the BISI website or email a.khadr@thebritishacademy.ac.uk.

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