The Big Ten Academic Alliance and the Smithsonian Institution (SI) invite fellowship applications for one-year fellowships to support research in residence at Smithsonian Institution facilities. Fellowships carry a stipend of $45,000 (stipends are prorated for periods of less than twelve months).  All fields of study that are actively pursued by the museums and research organizations of the Smithsonian Institution are eligible. 

How it Works

Under this fellowship program, the Smithsonian Institution and the Fellow’s university share the cost of support. Students enrolled at Big Ten Academic Alliance member universities apply directly via the Smithsonian Online Academic Appointment System (SOLAA). From 2017 forward, it will be possible for more than one award per campus. Fellowships awarded in future years could be as many as two dozen or more in one cycle.

Eligibility

Students must have completed all course work for their programs, and must have been admitted into doctoral candidacy and satisfied all requirements except completion of the dissertation in order to qualify. Only students enrolled at Big Ten Academic Alliance institutions are eligible to apply.

Benefits

The stipend is $45,000 for one year, and fellows are eligible for tuition and health insurance benefits in accordance with their university policy. Fellows are eligible to receive allowances for related expenses and for temporary relocation to the Smithsonian.

Application Instructions

The 2027 application is now OPEN! See Program Guide for additional information and Application Guide for details on how to apply. The application deadline is October 15, 2026 11:59 PM EST  https://fellowships.si.edu/SIFP

• Program Guide
• Application Guide
• Campus Contacts