Apply now for SISECSE 2026 – the Summer Institute for the Study of East Central and Southeastern Europe. This two-week residential fellowship, taking place in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria, from June 3–19, 2026, offers scholars a unique opportunity to focus on their research, engage in interdisciplinary dialogue, and participate in immersive discussions on autonomy, institutions, and transnational networks. SISECSE 2026 provides full travel and accommodation support, access to archives and cultural resources, and the chance to build meaningful academic connections across North America and East Central and Southeastern Europe. Deadline for applications: December 2, 2025.

What Is the Summer Institute for the Study of East Central and Southeastern Europe 2026?

The Summer Institute for the Study of East Central and Southeastern Europe 2026 (SISECSE) is a prestigious two-week residential workshop organized by the American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS) in partnership with the Centre for Advanced Study Sofia (CAS).

Taking place in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria from June 3 to June 19, 2026, this fellowship program brings together leading scholars from North America and Eastern Europe to advance their research in an interdisciplinary and collaborative environment.

👉 Apply here via ACLS

Why Apply for This Fellowship?

The Summer Institute for the Study of East Central and Southeastern Europe 2026 offers:

• Full coverage of travel, accommodation, and per diem expenses.

• Dedicated time and space for research and writing.

• Opportunities for local fieldwork including archival research, site surveys, and interviews.

• Participation in immersive thematic discussions on “Autonomy, Institutions, and Transnational Networks.”

• Networking with top scholars and building long-term academic connections.

Program Details and Benefits

• Duration: Two weeks (June 3–19, 2026).

• Stipend & Coverage: Travel, lodging, and daily expenses provided.

• Fieldwork: Optional local research in Bulgaria.

• Activities: Group seminar, interdisciplinary discussions, and at least one weekend trip.

Eligibility Criteria

The competition is open to:

• Scholars in humanities or social sciences with a PhD (or equivalent professional experience).

• Applicants affiliated with an academic or cultural institution in North America (Canada, US, Mexico) or East Central and Southeastern Europe.

• Researchers focused on the following countries: Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Hungary, Kosovo, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine.

There are no citizenship restrictions.

Application Guidelines

Applicants must submit through the ACLS Online Fellowship and Grant Administration System:

• Completed application form.

• Research essay (max. 4 pages).

• Bibliography and publication list.

• Statement of interest in the institute (max. 2 pages).

• Optional supporting images, data, or scores.

👉 Access the full guidelines and apply here

Evaluation Criteria

Applications will be reviewed on:

• Significance of the research topic.

• Innovation and methodology.

• Contribution to East Central and Southeastern European studies.

• Feasibility of completion.

• Applicant’s track record and potential impact.

Key Dates and Deadline

• Application deadline: December 2, 2025 at 9:00 PM EST.

• Residency dates: June 3–19, 2026 in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria.

How to Apply

Interested scholars should prepare their proposals and submit all materials online:
👉 Apply for the Summer Institute for the Study of East Central and Southeastern Europe 2026

For questions, email sisecse@acls.org after reviewing the FAQ page.

Final Thoughts

The Summer Institute for the Study of East Central and Southeastern Europe 2026 is more than a fellowship—it’s an opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research, cross-cultural exchange, and professional growth. Scholars dedicated to understanding the complex histories, cultures, and institutions of the region are strongly encouraged to apply. Participants will also benefit from mentorship by leading experts, collaborative seminars, and fieldwork opportunities that enrich their projects. Beyond advancing individual research, SISECSE 2026 fosters lasting academic networks and promotes dialogue across borders, ensuring a transformative experience with long-term impact.

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