Rajawali Institute Asia Fellows Program
About the Fellowship
The Rajawali Foundation Institute for Asia Fellows Program supports visiting scholars and practitioners as they engage in independent research projects on various Asian public policy issues.
Fellows appointments generally begin in August and end in July and are by invitation only.
Fellows participate in monthly research seminars that feature guest speakers from both within and outside the Harvard Kennedy School working on various public policy issues relevant to Asia. Fellows participate in bi-weekly workshops that allow them to present their academic works in progress, network with other scholars in the greater Boston area, and present their final presentations in public panels at the end of the academic year.
Eligibility
Applicants for the Asia Fellows Program must meet the following requirements: :
- Fluency in both written and spoken English
- Independent research capabilities
- Attending the new fellow’s orientation at the beginning of the semester
- Participation in research seminars
The Rajawali Foundation Institute for Asia is a global and values-driven community that believes diverse perspectives are paramount to better understanding and addressing real-world problems. In fostering an environment of rigor, curiosity, and integrity, we value and respect different opinions, lived experiences, and diverse research and policy areas and approaches. We actively seek candidates who share our commitment and values.
Benefits
Fellows have access to a wide range of academic resources at Harvard, including libraries, e-resources, course auditing (subject to instructor’s approval), research centers, and scholars. Fellows will receive a certificate upon satisfactory completion of their program requirements at a farewell luncheon at the end of the academic year, but no degrees will be conferred. Fellows have access to shared working stations equipped with shared computers and printers that are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
In addition to academic pursuits, fellows are encouraged to explore the various cultural and historical activities available in the Boston area. Many of our fellows are also encouraged to interact with HKS degree-seeking students with overlapping research interests and professional backgrounds.
Applications to the Rajawali Foundation Institute for Asia Fellows Program are by invitation and only in research areas that are of relevance to the Rajawali Foundation Institute for Asia. We do not accept open applications.
If you have been invited to apply, please access the application portal below. To learn more about the application process, please visit our frequently asked questions (FAQ) below.
Please note that we do not provide critique/feedback on unsuccessful applications.
Meet the Current Fellows
Frequently Asked Questions
Are letters of recommendation required?
Yes, letters of recommendation will be required. Please find instructions for recommendation letters within the application.
I need to make a change to my application—can I edit it once submitted or re-submit?
Throughout the application process, the application will automatically save and you can revisit it at any time. If you are unsure of any response, we encourage you to wait (your application does autosave and you can revisit it at any time on the “My Applications” page) and only submit once you’re ready. You cannot change your application once it is submitted.
Can I confirm that my application was received?
On the “My Applications” page, the status of your application will be displayed. The status “Submitted” indicates it has been received.
Do you provide visa sponsorship for Ash Center fellowships?
Yes, Harvard University can provide J-1 visa sponsorship for eligible fellows.
When will I hear the final decision?
All fall applicants will be notified by early spring.
Will I be required to relocate to Cambridge to complete this fellowship?
Yes, we expect fellows to be in Cambridge to participate in required on-campus activities.
What costs are associated with the fellowship?
The Rajawali Foundation Institute for Asia Fellows Program does not offer any financial support or stipend for individuals’ expenses, such as living costs, health insurance, travel expenses, and mandatory fellows program fees. In the past, fellows have funded their affiliation with grants from such sources as the Fulbright/IIE, China Scholarship Council, Ford Foundation, and/or personal funds.