The Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellowship Programme, established in honor of Professor Wang Gungwu, supports emerging scholars and policymakers conducting policy-relevant research on how major power dynamics affect Southeast Asia. Hosted by the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, the fellowship focuses on key areas including US-China relations, Asia-Pacific security, regional economic initiatives like the Belt and Road and RCEP, etc.
Fellows engage in policy-relevant studies, contributing to ISEAS publications and seminars. The Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellowship spans two to six months, offering a monthly stipend, housing subsidy, and round-trip airfare. Applications for the 2026 intake closed on 30th July 2025.
Host Institution: ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute
- Name: ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute
- Location: Singapore
- Focus: Research on Southeast Asia’s socio-political and economic developments
- Programs: Offers fellowships and conducts in-depth regional studies
- Duration: Fellowships last between 2 to 6 months
Priority Areas of Research
The Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellowship emphasizes research in the following areas:
- US-China relations and their impact on Southeast Asia
- Asia-Pacific security issues (e.g., South China Sea, China-ASEAN relations)
- Economic cooperation initiatives (e.g., Belt and Road Initiative, RCEP)
- Rise of China and its effects on Southeast Asian communities
- Use of digital media and technology to influence Southeast Asian perceptions
Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellowship Benefits
Fellows receive:
- Monthly stipend including housing subsidy
- Round-trip economy airfare from home country to Singapore
- Access to office space, IT services, and ISEAS Library
- Opportunity to meet Professor Wang Gungwu
- Cost-sharing proposals may be considered
Expected Outputs and Publications
- Contribute to ISEAS Perspective and ISEAS Fulcrum publications
- Present research findings at an in-house seminar during the fellowship
- Join a network of regional scholars and may continue contributing after the fellowship
Benefits Not Included
The fellowship does not cover:
- Personal expenses beyond the provided stipend
- Dependent support
- Visa application fees
- Health insurance
Eligibility for Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellowship
Applicants should be:
- Open to post-doctoral researchers
- Mid-career policymakers without a Ph.D. may apply if they have relevant professional experience and research interest
- The Fellowship is open to all the Nationals.
Required Documents
- Cover letter
- CV or resume
- Research statement (3 pages, double-spaced), including:
- Area of research
- Methodology
- Timeline and expected outcomes
- Duration of fellowship at ISEAS
- Two letters of reference
- Proposal for partial/full cost-sharing (if applicable)
Submission Instructions:
- Send all application materials via email to: development@iseas.edu.sg
- Subject: Application for ISEAS Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2026 – [Your Full Name]
- Referees must send reference letters directly to the same email
- Subject: Application for ISEAS Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2026 – [Reference Letter for Your Full Name]
Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellowship Application Process
To apply:
- Prepare the required documents.
- Submit the application via email to: development@iseas.edu.sg with the subject: “Application for ISEAS Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2025 – [First Name and Last Name]”.
- Ensure that referees send their letters directly to the same email with the subject: “Application for ISEAS Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2025 – [Reference Letter for First Name and Last Name]”.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Clearly articulate the relevance of your research to Southeast Asia.
- Demonstrate how your work aligns with the fellowship’s priority areas.
- Highlight your previous research experience and publications.
- Ensure all documents are well-organized and free of errors.
- Seek strong reference letters that attest to your research capabilities
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Singapore
International students in Singapore typically incur the following monthly expenses:
- Accommodation: SGD 600–1,200
- Food: SGD 300–450
- Transportation: SGD 100–150
- Miscellaneous (utilities, internet, personal expenses): SGD 200–300
Total estimated monthly expenses range from SGD 1,200 to SGD 2,100.
Why Choose This Opportunity?
This fellowship offers a unique platform to engage in impactful research on Southeast Asia’s evolving dynamics. It provides access to a vibrant academic community, resources, and the chance to contribute to policy-relevant discourse. The program’s emphasis on contemporary issues ensures that your work has real-world applicability and influence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is the fellowship open to applicants without a Ph.D.?
Yes, mid-career policymakers without a Ph.D. but with relevant experience are encouraged to apply.
Q2: What is the duration of the fellowship?
Fellowships can last from 2 to 6 months, subject to approval.
Q3: Are there any publication requirements during the fellowship?
Fellows are expected to contribute to ISEAS Perspective and Fulcrum publications and present their research at an in-house seminar.
Q4: Does the fellowship cover health insurance?
No, fellows are responsible for their own health insurance coverage.
Q5: Can I apply for the 2026 intake now?
As of now, the application period for the 2026 intake has not been announced. It’s advisable to monitor the ISEAS website for updates.
Official Link for More Details and Application
For comprehensive information and updates, please visit the official ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute website:
