The Johannesburg Institute for Advanced Study JIAS Writing Fellowship 2026 is now open for its ninth program. This three month full paid writing residency gives writers, scholars and creative thinkers a quiet place in Johannesburg, South Africa to focus on their work. The 2026 theme is Global Blackness asking fellows to explore the many histories voices and ideas that shape Black experiences worldwide. The program runs from 1 April to 30 June 2026.
JIAS Writing Fellowship 2026
| Host Country | South Africa |
| Duration | 3 months (April – June 2026) |
| Theme | Global Blackness |
| Fellowship Type | Fully Funded |
| Eligible Applicants | Writers, researchers, and creative practitioners |
| Host Institute | Johannesburg Institute for Advanced Study (JIAS) |
| Application Deadline | 31 October 2025 (midnight SAST) |
About the JIAS Writing Fellowship
The JIAS Writing Fellowship offers a calm and inspiring space for people to focus on writing or research without normal work or teaching pressures. Fellows can write books, scripts, creative works or research projects during their stay.
The 2026 program focuses on the theme Global Blackness. This encourages people to think about
- How Blackness is shown in different countries and times.
- The ideas theories and creative traditions that shape Black thought.
- The shared and unique experiences of Black communities around the world.
- Strong projects not about the theme will also be considered.
Also See: Maitri Fellowships 2026 in Australia | Apply Now
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
- Return flights (economy class) to and from Johannesburg
- Private accommodation in a residential suite at JIAS
- Daily breakfast and lunch (Monday – Friday)
- Access to the University of Johannesburg’s facilities
- Enrichment activities and networking sessions
- Taxable award of R90 000 (total for 3 months)
Fellows are given the time and freedom to think, write, and create without academic duties such as teaching or grading.
Eligibility Criteria
The program welcomes scholars, writers, and creative professionals from around the world, with preference for applicants from the Global South.
Academic Applicants
- Must hold a PhD in a relevant field.
- Must show active engagement in research (such as publications or academic projects).
Creative Practitioners
- A PhD is not required.
- Should have a solid portfolio of creative work such as exhibitions, performances, or writing projects.
Additional Preferences
- Applicants from or connected to the Global South.
- Women and gender diverse applicants of colour are strongly encouraged.
Expectations During the Fellowship
Fellows are expected to:
- Focus fully on your project during the 3 month stay.
- Take part in community events and discussions.
- Acknowledge JIAS support in all future publications or presentations.
All written or creative outputs will be reviewed for possible submission to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) for research subsidy consideration.
Also See: LawAI Summer Fellowship 2026 in USA (Fully Funded)
Required Documents
- CV
- Short bio (can include website or links)
- Headshot
- Motivation letter (max 250 words)
- Research or creative project outline (max 1000 words)
- Two full drafts (5 000–10 000 words each) from your proposed project
All files must be combined into one PDF document before submission.
How to Apply For JIAS Writing Fellowship 2026
- Prepare all required documents listed above.
- Combine them into a single PDF.
- Send the PDF by email to jiasinfo@uj.ac.za.
- Ensure your application reaches JIAS before the 31 October 2025 deadline.
- Online interviews for shortlisted applicants will be in the first week of December 2025.