Berlin Prize Fellowships
The American Academy in Berlin is an independent, nonprofit institute for advanced study in the arts, humanities, social sciences, law, journalism, and public policy. Its primary mission is to strengthen the cultural and intellectual ties between the United States and Germany. Each year, following a rigorous selection process, the Academy awards roughly two dozen semester-long fellowships to individuals who demonstrate excellence in their respective fields.
The Academy welcomes applications from a broad range of disciplines in the humanities, social sciences, law, journalism, and various areas of public policy. We also generally encourage projects that address pressing issues of the day, such as democracy, security, technology and society (especially AI), energy (including climate), and global order. Dedicated fellowships are also available to support projects in Jewish studies, German studies, and public health and biotechnology. While project proposals need not focus on topics related to Germany, candidates should explain how a residency in Berlin would enhance their work.
The Academy invites visual artists and composers via separate, nomination-based competitions. We do not accept project proposals in mathematics or the natural sciences.
Berlin Prize Fellows receive monthly stipends of $5000, roundtrip airfare, accommodation at or near the Hans Arnhold Center, partial board, and access to in-house library services and professional networking opportunities. Fellows present their work to audiences in and around Berlin via lectures, readings, public discussions, performances, and film screenings. They should also be willing to engage with relevant German institutions, organizations, and the media. These activities are integral to the Academy’s mission of fostering transatlantic dialogue.
All candidates will receive notification of the competition outcome via email in late March 2027. The Academy will announce the 2027-28 Berlin Prize recipients in May 2027.
APPLICATION MATERIAL
Fellowship candidates must complete the online application form and upload PDFs of the following materials (in English):
- project proposal of 1500 to 1750 words, plus a short bibliography (maximum one page), combined into a single document;
- curriculum vitae (maximum 10 pages);
- two writing samples, with a combined total not exceeding 60 pages.
Applicants must also provide the names and contact information of three referees. Referees will receive an automated email via the application portal SlideRoom with instructions for submitting their letters of recommendation (see below).
