The French Institutes for Advanced Study (FIAS) Fellowship Program offers a prestigious platform for international scholars to engage in groundbreaking research in France. Launched in 2020, this program invites high-caliber researchers from around the world to spend ten months at one of seven renowned institutes. Whether your expertise lies in social sciences, humanities, or interdisciplinary studies, FIAS provides the freedom, resources, and environment to take your work to the next level.
Unlike many fellowships, FIAS stands out for its emphasis on flexibility and interdisciplinary collaboration. Fellows enjoy uninterrupted time to pursue innovative projects while connecting with a vibrant academic community. With its final cycle set for the 2024–2025 academic year, now is the time to seize this opportunity. In this article, we’ll explore the program’s structure, eligibility, benefits, application process, and more, offering a comprehensive guide to help you succeed. Let’s dive into what makes the FIAS Fellowship a game-changer for researchers worldwide.
What Is the French Institutes for Advanced Study (FIAS) Fellowship Program?
The FIAS Fellowship Program, initiated by the RFIEA Foundation with support from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 initiative, aims to strengthen scholarship and mobility in the social sciences and humanities (SSH). The program seeks to attract seasoned researchers to France, a hub of intellectual innovation, by offering residencies at seven cutting-edge institutes: Aix-Marseille, Loire Valley (Orléans-Tours), Lyon, Montpellier, Nantes, Paris, and Rennes.
At its core, the program empowers fellows to explore bold ideas without the burden of teaching or administrative duties. This freedom allows researchers to achieve in ten months what might take years elsewhere. Additionally, FIAS encourages cross-disciplinary dialogue, making it a hotspot for creative and impactful scholarship.
A Brief History
Since its inception in 2020, FIAS has awarded over 110 fellowships across four application cycles. The 2024–2025 academic year marks the final phase of the program under the current funding framework. Backed by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant (No. 945408) and French national funding via France 2023, FIAS builds on the legacy of earlier initiatives like the EURIAS Fellowship. It represents a refined, ambitious effort to position France as a global leader in advanced studies.
Key Features of the FIAS Fellowship Program
Program Structure and Duration
The FIAS Fellowship spans ten months, running from September 1 to June 30 each year. For the 2024–2025 cycle, the program offers 40 positions distributed as follows:
- Aix-Marseille: 4
- Loire Valley: 3
- Lyon: 10
- Montpellier: 3
- Nantes: 4
- Paris: 13
- Rennes: 3
This structure ensures a diverse cohort across France’s most innovative regions. Fellows reside at their chosen institute, immersing themselves in a supportive, interdisciplinary environment.
Focus Areas and Research Freedom
While FIAS primarily targets scholars in social sciences and humanities, it also welcomes interdisciplinary projects from fields like arts and sciences that intersect meaningfully with SSH. Some institutes prioritize specific themes, such as transitions in Montpellier or brain-culture interactions in Paris. However, fellows enjoy remarkable autonomy to shape their research, free from rigid constraints.
Benefits and Support
Why choose FIAS? Here’s what fellows receive:
- A living allowance of €2,700 net per month.
- Social security coverage, including health insurance.
- Accommodation or relocation assistance.
- A research budget of €2,500 annually.
- Travel expenses for one round trip from their home country.
Beyond financial support, the program provides workspaces, access to university libraries, and opportunities to organize events. This comprehensive support allows fellows to focus entirely on their projects while building lasting academic networks.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria for FIAS Fellowship
Academic Qualifications
FIAS welcomes researchers at all career stages, from postdoctoral scholars to senior scientists. To qualify, you need:
- A PhD plus 2 years of full-time research experience, or
- A Master’s plus 6 years of full-time research experience (excluding PhD training).
This flexibility ensures inclusivity, accommodating diverse academic paths.
Mobility Rule
Applicants must adhere to the transnational MSCA mobility rule. Specifically, you must not have lived or worked in France for more than 12 months in the three years before the application deadline. This rule promotes international exchange, ensuring fresh perspectives enrich the French academic landscape.
Nationality and Disciplines
FIAS is open to researchers from all countries and nationalities. While SSH dominates, the program embraces interdisciplinary proposals. For example, a neuroscientist exploring societal impacts or an artist engaging with humanities could thrive here, provided their work aligns with the institute’s ethos.
How to Apply for the French Institutes for Advanced Study Fellowship
Application Process Overview
Ready to apply? The process is straightforward but competitive. Applications are submitted online via www.fias-fp.eu, where you’ll find detailed guidelines, though you should confirm the exact date for future cycles.
Required Documents
To stand out, prepare these materials in English:
- Online application form: Completed via the FIAS portal.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlight your research achievements.
- Research proposal: A 5-page outline of your project, emphasizing innovation and interdisciplinary potential.
- Diploma copy: Include a translation if not in Latin script.
- Letters of support: Mandatory for some institutes (e.g., Paris, Loire Valley) from a local scientific partner.
- Optional: Up to two recommendation letters.
Pro tip: Tailor your proposal to the chosen institute’s priorities for a stronger edge.
Predicted Timeline for Upcoming FIAS Fellowship Cycle
• Application Announcement: Typically, FIAS has announced its cycle in early spring. Expect an announcement around March 2026.
• Submission Deadline: Past cycles have set the deadline about a month later. Applicants might need to submit by April 2026.
• Review and Interview Period: The evaluation process usually occurs in the following month. Look for a review period spanning May to June 2026.
• Final Selection Announcement: Selections have historically been communicated by early summer, so anticipate notifications by July 2026.
• Fellowship Start Date: As the fellowship aligns with the academic calendar, the residency is expected to begin in September/October 2026.
Note: These dates are estimations based on past trends. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, keep an eye on the FIAS official website in early spring 2026
Selection Process
The selection is rigorous and merit-based, unfolding in stages:
- Preselection (November): The FIAS Selection Committee shortlists candidates.
- Final Selection (January–February): Each institute’s Scientific Advisory Board evaluates applicants based on:
- Scientific excellence (40%).
- Research proposal quality (60%).
- Results (March): Successful fellows are notified.
With international peer reviews driving the process, transparency and quality remain paramount.
Why Choose the FIAS Fellowship? Benefits and Opportunities
Career Advancement
Imagine producing years’ worth of research in just ten months. By freeing you from administrative burdens, FIAS accelerates your output and visibility. Moreover, exposure to a global, multidisciplinary cohort sharpens your skills and expands your network—key assets for future collaborations or funding.
Intellectual Environment
Each institute offers a unique blend of resources and expertise. For instance, Paris fellows access the historic Hôtel de Lauzun, while Lyon emphasizes interdisciplinary hubs. Consequently, you’ll thrive in a setting designed to spark creativity and innovation.
Beyond Academia
FIAS isn’t just about research; it’s about impact. Fellows often engage with societal challenges—think climate transitions or cultural dynamics—bridging academia and real-world solutions. Plus, public lectures and events amplify your work’s reach.
Challenges and Considerations
Competitive Nature
With only 40 spots in its final cycle, FIAS is highly selective. Therefore, crafting a standout proposal is essential. Weak alignment with institute priorities or a generic application could diminish your chances.
Relocation Logistics
Moving to France for ten months requires planning, especially if you’re from outside Europe. While FIAS provides support, navigating visas or family arrangements may pose hurdles. Still, the rewards often outweigh these challenges.
End of Current Cycle
Since 2024–2025 marks the program’s last funded year under Horizon 2020, its future remains uncertain. Stay tuned to the official site for updates on potential extensions or new iterations.
Success Stories: Impact of FIAS Fellowship
Though specific fellow names aren’t publicized, FIAS has empowered researchers to tackle pressing issues. For example, past fellows have explored topics like urban sustainability and cognitive-cultural intersections, producing publications that resonate globally. These outcomes highlight how FIAS catalyzes transformative scholarship.
Conclusion: Is the FIAS Fellowship Right for You?
The French Institutes for Advanced Study Fellowship Program offers a rare blend of freedom, support, and prestige for researchers eager to push boundaries. Whether you’re a postdoctoral scholar or a seasoned scientist, this program can propel your career to new heights. However, its competitive nature demands a compelling, well-aligned application.
As the 2024–2025 cycle wraps up the current phase, now’s your chance to join this elite network. Visit www.fias-fp.eu to explore institute details and start your application. Ready to make your mark in France? The FIAS Fellowship awaits.
Quick Reference Table
Field | Details |
Name of Program | French Institutes for Advanced Study (FIAS) Fellowship Program |
Organization Name | French Institutes for Advanced Study (FIAS), coordinated by RFIEA Foundation |
Location | France (Aix-Marseille, Loire Valley, Lyon, Montpellier, Nantes, Paris, Rennes) |
Eligibility | PhD + 2 years research experience or Master’s + 6 years; transnational mobility rule |
Focus Areas | Social Sciences, Humanities, interdisciplinary research with SSH |
Application Deadline | Spring 2025 (for 2026–2027 cycle); check official site for updates |
Official Link |
For updates on future application cycles, please check the FIAS website in Spring 2025.
FIAS Fellowship FAQs
A 10-month funded residency in France for global researchers in social sciences, humanities, and interdisciplinary fields.
Researchers with a PhD +2 years or Master’s +6 years experience who meet the mobility rule.
Applicants must not have lived in France for more than 12 months in the past 3 years.
€2,700 per month, plus €2,500 research budget and relocation support.
Stipend, health insurance, research funds, housing or relocation aid, and access to academic resources.
Yes, FIAS is open to all nationalities who meet eligibility and mobility criteria.
In Aix-Marseille, Loire Valley, Lyon, Montpellier, Nantes, Paris, and Rennes.
No, the 2025–2026 cycle is suspended. Updates expected in Spring 2025.
Highly competitive—only 40 fellowships are awarded each year.
Each cycle begins September 1 and ends June 30 the following year.
Peer review based on scientific excellence (40%) and project quality (60%).
Yes, but you must handle logistics and visas independently. FIAS helps with relocation, not family-specific needs.
No, it is a one-time 10-month opportunity.
Yes, you select your preferred institute based on research alignment.
Research freedom, interdisciplinary exchange, and access to top French institutes with no teaching duties.
