Royal Society International Exchanges and Fellowships
Funding schemes provided by the Royal Society in the United Kingdom to support researchers at the postdoctoral level and above, fostering international and domestic scientific collaboration.
Quick Facts
Status
Funding
Full / PartialDeadline
Various dates depending on the specific scheme (e.g., International Exchanges Round 3 closes 24 September 2026)
Country
United KingdomAbout the Royal Society International Exchanges and Fellowships
The Royal Society provides a range of grant schemes to support the UK scientific community and foster collaboration between UK based and overseas scientists. As a self-governing Fellowship of eminent scientists, engineers, and technologists, the Society funds researchers pursuing discovery-led and applied research across multiple career stages.
Funding is directed primarily at researchers at the postdoctoral level and above. Undergraduate, Master's, and PhD students are not eligible to apply for Royal Society funding. Research must fall within the natural sciences remit, which includes biological research, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, and physics.
The application process is managed through the Flexi-Grant system. Applications require eligibility checks, host organisation approval from the Research Office and Head of Department, and adherence to specific scheme notes and criteria.
Applications are assessed by Selection Committees chaired by Fellows of the Royal Society. Depending on the specific scheme, the assessment process may involve independent peer review or candidate interviews, with final funding decisions approved by the Grants Committee.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Funding provided by the oldest scientific academy in continuous existence
Supports freedom, support, and flexibility for researchers in the UK and internationally
Encourages international collaboration with leading overseas scientists
Provides tailored career development and engagement opportunities for grant-holders
What the Scholarship Covers
Eligibility Requirements
5 requirements
Documents Checklist
4 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Find a suitable scheme using the Royal Society grant listings and review application dates
Check personal eligibility and confirm that the proposed research falls within the natural sciences remit
Verify host organisation eligibility and discuss the intention to apply with the host institution's research support office
Read the scheme notes in full for detailed award, funding, and reference requirements
Register and submit the application through the Flexi-Grant management system before the deadline
Ensure the host organisation Research Office and Head of Department provide required approvals and consent before the closing date
Application Timeline
30 July 2026
International Exchanges Global Round 3 and Cost Share Round 3 Open
Applications open on Flexi-Grant
24 September 2026
International Exchanges Global Round 3 and Cost Share Round 3 Close
Deadline for application and host approvals
March 2027
International Exchanges Round 3 Decisions
Applicants notified by email
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Consult the specific scheme pages shortly before they open to check for any updates to eligibility criteria
Discuss space, additional resources, and professional development plans with your host department well in advance if applying for longer-term fellowships
Contact the research office early if planning to collaborate with industry or overseas organizations to navigate subsidy control and national security obligations
Submit all applications and host organisation declarations through Flexi-Grant well before the deadline since late submissions are not considered
Important Links & Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions - click any to expand
No. Royal Society funding is restricted to researchers at the postdoctoral level and above. Undergraduate, Master's, and PhD students cannot apply.
All applications must be submitted through the Royal Society grants management system, Flexi-Grant.
Research must fall within the natural sciences remit, including biological research, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, and physics, with selected funding available for the history of science.
Check the Official Website
This scholarship typically opens around Varies by scheme. Confirm the current cycle and deadline on the official portal.
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