Iraqi academics, established researchers and professors in any academic field or discipline may apply. Scholars are selected for fellowship support based on (i) the quality and extent of their academic experience and (ii) the urgency of the threats they face.

Preferences will be given to scholars:

• with a Ph.D. or equivalent in their field;
• who have been employed in advanced academic activities at a university, college or other higher learning institution;
• who demonstrate superior academic accomplishment; and whose selection is likely to benefit the academic community in Iraq and in the host country; and
• who have published in their academic field.

Applications from female scholars and scholars who are members of ethnic, cultural or religious minority groups, or those otherwise underrepresented in their field, are encouraged.

Scholars currently residing in and those recently departed from Iraq may be considered. However, the length of an individual's time outside the area of danger may be a factor in the decision to award or decline a request for fellowship support.