Chevening-Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS) Fellowship Program Bursary 2026 – Closing Date: 7 October 2025

Hey future changemakers and global thinkers! Are you a mid-career academic or professional passionate about understanding the rich culture and civilizations of Islam and contemporary Muslim societies? If you’re looking to elevate your research and leadership skills, then the Chevening-Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS) Fellowship Program might just be your next big step!

Important Note for South African Students: While Bursaries Room focuses on opportunities for South Africans, this particular Chevening-OCIS Fellowship is specifically for citizens of other listed countries. Make sure to check the ‘Who Can Apply?’ section carefully to see if your country is eligible!

So, what’s this awesome opportunity all about? The Chevening-Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS) Fellowship Program is designed for dedicated mid-career professionals and academics. It’s not your typical classroom experience; instead, you’ll undertake a five-month period of self-directed research at the prestigious Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS) in the UK. You get to dive deep into your own project, focusing on the culture and civilisation of Islam and contemporary Muslim societies in a global context. Imagine being surrounded by a multi-disciplinary group of scholars, engaging in lively discussions, and developing invaluable connections within the Islamic world studies community. You’ll contribute to fostering dialogue and collaboration, making a real impact in your field!

Who Can Apply?

Are you wondering if you qualify for this incredible opportunity? Here’s the lowdown on who can apply for the Chevening OCIS Fellowship:

First off, this particular Chevening OCIS Abdullah Gül Fellowship is available specifically for applicants from Turkey. For the general Chevening OCIS Fellowship, you must be a citizen and resident of one of the following countries at the time of application: Afghanistan, Algeria, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Philippines, Senegal, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, or Uzbekistan.

Beyond your nationality, you also need to:

Show serious potential to become a leader and influential figure in your field.
Demonstrate strong personal, intellectual, and interpersonal skills.
Commit to returning to your country of citizenship once your fellowship ends.
Hold a postgraduate-level qualification (or equivalent professional training/experience in a relevant area) when you apply.
Have at least five years of significant professional and/or academic research experience.
Possess a good working knowledge of English (this will be assessed during your application and interview).
Not hold British or dual-British citizenship.
Not be an employee, former employee, or immediate relative (parents, siblings, children, spouse/partner) of an employee of His Majesty’s Government, the British Council, or a sponsoring UK university within the last two years from the opening of applications.

What Does It Cover?

Wondering what perks come with this prestigious fellowship? Chevening wants you to focus on your research without worrying about the finances! If you’re selected, the Chevening-OCIS Fellowship covers:

A fantastic five-month period dedicated to your research at the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies.
Living expenses to support you throughout your fellowship.
A return economy airfare from your home country to the UK – so you don’t have to worry about travel costs!
An allowance package specifically for research-related activities.
Exclusive access to a vibrant programme of cultural events and activities organised by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the Chevening Secretariat, giving you a chance to explore UK culture and network.

How to Apply?

Ready to take the plunge and apply? Here’s how you can make your application shine:

The application deadline is 7 October 2025, at 12:00 (UTC), so mark your calendars!
All applications are made online via the official Chevening portal.
Make sure to visit the official Chevening website for all the detailed guidelines, requirements, and to access the application portal. This is where you’ll find everything you need to know to submit a strong application.

Official Application Link: Visit the Official Webpage of the Chevening-Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS) Fellowship

If you’re from one of the eligible countries and this Chevening-OCIS Fellowship sounds like the perfect opportunity to boost your career and research, don’t wait — seize this chance! And remember, Bursaries Room is always here to help you explore more bursaries for your future, so keep an eye out for other amazing opportunities!