Harvard University Research Grant 2027 for Graduate Students to Fund Travel and Research

The Harvard China Fund graduate student research travel grant provides funding for Harvard graduate students whose primary academic or research domain relates to China. Travel may take place during the spring or fall semester and may be to Greater China or another US or international destination necessary to advance the research project. Applications for travel during spring 2027 are due by November 16, 2026.

About the Harvard China Fund Research Travel Grant

The Harvard China Fund and the Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies invite graduate students to propose semester-time research travel. The grant is intended for travel during the spring or fall semester; summer and winter travel are not covered by this opportunity. A proposed destination does not have to be in China: applicants may request travel to Greater China, elsewhere in the United States, or an international destination when the trip is necessary for their research project.

Applications are submitted through CARAT. Required materials include a current CV or resume; a detailed research proposal of approximately 750 words and no more than three double-spaced pages; a comprehensive itinerary with proposed travel dates and locations; an itemized budget of projected expenses; and a recommendation letter from the applicant’s academic advisor confirming that the research and travel plans are feasible. The research proposal should explain the project, planned methodology, and timeline.

Applicants should consult Harvard Global Support Services when planning their trip so they can access the most up-to-date travel information. The Harvard China Fund and Fairbank Center state that they cannot assist with obtaining the appropriate visa, health documentation, or airline tickets. Before funding can be disbursed, recipients must confirm that they have received a visa if one is required and comply with the University’s graduate student travel policy. Applicants should submit confirmation of a successful visa application, if needed, and their flight details as soon as they receive them.

Travel plans may change after a proposal is submitted. If an applicant needs to amend or withdraw a proposal, they should notify Emmeline Liu immediately. Students intending to travel to Taiwan for research should apply for a Taiwan Study Grant instead. For other funding calls, readers can browse grants and funding opportunities or explore other opportunities for youth.

Who Should Apply

This grant is for Harvard graduate students from any school, department, or program whose primary research domain is related to China. It may suit students whose research requires travel during the spring or fall semester, whether to Greater China or another destination that supports the project. Applicants should be prepared to explain their research plans, itinerary, and projected travel expenses in the required materials.

Key Highlights

• Travel funding for graduate research during the spring or fall semester.
• Eligible destinations include Greater China and necessary US or international locations.
• Summer and winter travel are not eligible under this grant.
• Applications are submitted through CARAT.
• Deadline: November 16, 2026, for travel during spring 2027.