For doctoral students eager to elevate their academic pursuits, the Chateaubriand Fellowship emerges as a golden opportunity. Sponsored by the Embassy of France in the United States, this prestigious program bridges American and French research communities, fostering collaboration and innovation. Whether you’re immersed in STEM disciplines or passionate about humanities and social sciences, this fellowship invites you to conduct transformative research in France.

In this detailed guide, we’ll uncover the Chateaubriand Fellowship’s structure, eligibility, benefits, and application process, empowering you with everything needed to seize this academic adventure.

What Defines the Chateaubriand Fellowship Program?

The Chateaubriand Fellowship is a competitive, merit-based grant tailored for exceptional PhD students from U.S. universities. Established in 1981 by the Embassy of France, it seeks to deepen academic connections between the two nations through collaborative research. Today, it thrives as a vital pillar of Franco-American scholarly exchange, offering two specialized tracks:

• • STEM Track: Focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Biology-Health.
  • HSS Track: Dedicated to Humanities and Social Sciences.

As of March 2025, the program remains active, with the 2025-2026 application cycle set to launch in October 2025. Over the past

four decades, it has supported more than 850 American scholars, cementing its reputation as a catalyst for groundbreaking research in France.

Program Duration and Study Format

The Chateaubriand Fellowship provides a flexible research window of 4 to 9 months. Specifically, STEM fellows enjoy a range of 4 to 9 months, while HSS fellows can stay for 4 to 8 months. This duration allows ample time to dive into complex projects and forge meaningful connections with French researchers.

Study Format

The program demands a full-time, in-person commitment. Fellows relocate to France, working directly within host laboratories or institutions. Consequently, no part-time, online, or hybrid options exist, underscoring the fellowship’s focus on immersive, hands-on collaboration.

Key Focus Areas of the Chateaubriand Fellowship

The fellowship embraces a broad spectrum of disciplines, organized into two dynamic streams:

STEM Disciplines: Pioneering Scientific Innovation

The STEM track, backed by the French Embassy’s Office for Science & Technology (OST), targets doctoral students in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and health-related fields. Partnering with renowned entities like Inserm, Inria, and the National Science Foundation’s GROW program, it supports cutting-edge research in areas such as biotechnology, computational science, and environmental engineering. Thus, it’s an ideal platform for those aiming to push scientific boundaries through international teamwork.

HSS Disciplines: Exploring Humanities and Social Sciences

Conversely, the HSS track, managed by

the Cultural Services of the French Embassy, caters to PhD students across all humanities and social sciences. Whether your passion lies in history, literature, sociology, or anthropology, this stream nurtures diverse research pursuits. By connecting fellows with French scholars, it fosters rich intellectual exchanges and access to unparalleled resources.

Together, these focus areas make the fellowship a versatile springboard for academic excellence, appealing to a wide range of doctoral candidates.

Current Status: Is the Program Still Active?

The Chateaubriand Fellowship continues to flourish, accepting applications annually with no indication of discontinuation. For the 2026-2027 cycle, expect the application portal to open in October 2025, with fellowships starting between September 2026 and April 2027. Therefore, aspiring researchers should monitor the official website for the latest updates and deadlines.

Who Qualifies? Eligibility Criteria Explained

To secure this fellowship, candidates must meet specific standards:

1. 1. Academic Status: Must be a doctoral student enrolled at a U.S. university.
   2. Nationality: Open to students of all nationalities, except French citizens.
   3. Research Alignment: Your research must align with either the STEM or HSS tracks.
   4. Host Institution Agreement: Secure co-supervision from both your U.S. advisor and a French host institution.
   5. Language Proficiency: French language skills aren’t mandatory, as requirements vary by
      host.

Benefits: What Does the Fellowship Offer?

The Chateaubriand Fellowship delivers a robust package to fuel your research journey. Notably, fellows receive:

• • Monthly Stipend: Up to €1,750 (around $1,900 USD in March 2025), adjusted based on additional funding.
  • Travel Allowance: Round-trip airfare to France.
  • Health Insurance: Full coverage throughout your stay.

Beyond financial perks, the program offers access to elite French labs, networking with top scholars, and immersion in a vibrant academic culture. As a result, fellows often gain sharpened skills, broader networks, and a standout edge in their careers.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying requires careful planning, as the window typically runs from October to January for the following year’s fellowships. Here’s how to navigate the process:

Step 1: Craft a Winning Research Proposal

Develop a concise, 3-page proposal detailing your U.S.-based research and its expansion in France. Highlight the collaborative potential with your French host to strengthen your case.

Step 2: Gather Support Letters

Secure a letter from your U.S. advisor endorsing your plan, plus an invitation from your French host. HSS applicants also need a second recommendation from a familiar professor.

Step 3: Compile Essential Documents