Harvard University, through the Harvard Global Health Institute (HGHI), offers a fully funded Visiting Research Scholarship Program. This 6-week residency in Cambridge/Boston, MA brings international academic collaborators to Harvard’s campus to advance joint global health initiatives, publish manuscripts, and deepen institutional research ties.
Whether you are a researcher based in India, South America, Africa, or Europe, this program provides full financial support with $0 application fees.
Program Overview & Key Features
| Feature | Details |
| Residency Location | Cambridge / Boston, Massachusetts, USA |
| Residency Duration | 6 Weeks in Residence (During April) |
| Target Audience | International Researchers, PhD Scholars, & Faculty Collaborators |
| Application Fee | $0 / ₹0 (100% Free) |
| Application Deadline | August 23, 2026 (11:59 PM ET) |
Can International & Indian Researchers Apply?
Yes! International researchers from all countries—including India—are fully eligible to apply.
However, there is a critical application rule to keep in mind:
- No Direct Individual Applications: International scholars cannot apply directly or independently.
- Faculty Sponsoring Required: The official application must be submitted by an active Harvard faculty member who agrees to host you.
- Pre-Existing Collaboration: The program is designed to strengthen existing peer or near-peer research partnerships (e.g., co-authored papers, joint curriculum development, or shared policy projects) rather than establish brand-new ones.
Hidden Charges & Out-of-Pocket Breakdown
There are $0 hidden charges or tuition fees. The HGHI award covers all primary expenses associated with the 6-week residency via a lump-sum logistical stipend:
- Registration & Program Fees: $0
- International Airfare: Round-trip flights between your home country and Boston, MA are fully funded.
- Housing & Accommodation: Accommodation in the Boston/Cambridge area is fully covered.
- J-1 Visa & Health Insurance: Visa processing fees and mandatory health insurance coverage are provided.
- Living Expenses: Includes a daily per diem stipend for food and daily meals.
Eligibility & Qualification Requirements
To participate in the HGHI Visiting Research Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Academic Credentials: Hold a PhD or Doctoral degree in a relevant field (exceptional Master’s degree holders with extensive research records are also considered).
- Institutional Approval: Provide an official letter from your home university/institution granting a 6-week leave of absence.
- Passport & Visa: Possess an active passport and qualify for a US J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa.
- Harvard Sponsorship: Have a Harvard faculty member willing to submit the work plan and host you in their department.
How to Apply Step-by-Step
- Connect with Your Harvard Collaborator: Confirm your collaborative work plan with your sponsoring Harvard faculty member.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather your updated CV, a letter of leave approval from your home institution, and project details.
- Faculty Submission: Your Harvard sponsor submits the complete application package directly on the HGHI portal before the August 23, 2026 deadline.
Official Program Portal: Harvard Global Health Institute Visiting Scholars
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