Are you someone who can kindle a light of inspiration within others through passion academic study, research, or creativity with a vision beyond borders? Do you aspire to charm, mingle, and drown in the Nordic spirit- Sweden, Norway, Denmark, or Iceland?
The American-Scandinavian Foundation is making this all possible through its most prestigious fellowships and grants for 2025.
What Is the ASF Fellowship and Grant Program?
For over a century, the American-Scandinavian Foundation has been enriching the lives of students, professionals, and artists providing opportunities to travel into the Nordic region. Whether or not academic research is the focus of an individual’s creative program, or of graduate study at output, ASF aims to provide financial aid.:
- Fellowships: Up to $23,000 for a year-long stint in a Scandinavian country.
- Grants: Up to $5,000 will be awarded for short-term visits (1 to 3 months) for research or study.
The awards are available in all academic and artistic fields, making the ASF one of the most inclusive international support programs available.
Who Can Apply? | Eligibility Criteria
If you’re wondering whether you qualify, here’s a quick guide:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident |
| Education Level | Must have completed undergraduate education before the project begins |
| Previous ASF Awards | First-time applicants get priority; max 2 awards in 10 years |
| Team Projects | Allowed, but each member must submit an individual application |
| Art Residencies | Only considered if strongly justified as essential to your work |
Why choose Scandinavia?
These nations are rich in culture and heritage, yet modern and innovative, and with landscapes that can take your breath away. From the fjord-dotted landscape of Norway to the artistic vibrancy of cities up to Stockholm, studying or researching here can be one of the most transformative experiences—personally as well as professionally.
From eco-sciences to creative writing or technology to music composing, you should be inspired with what Scandinavia has to offer-from education to sustainability to the arts.
Language requirements
There are projects that will require Nordic language proficiency, but not all. However, for work involving interviews or in deep cultural immersion, language ability will be demonstrated via:
- A recommendation letter from a qualified language instructor
- Evidence of functional fluency relevant to your project.
What ASF Doesn’t Fund
To ensure clarity, here’s what ASF grants will not cover:
- Tuition at your U.S. institution
- Attendance at conferences or seminars
- Beginner-level language courses
- Art exhibitions or performances
- Institutional overhead costs
- Personal purchases like bikes, phones, or computers
- Dependents’ support, housing costs, or loan payments
ASF wants every dollar to go directly toward meaningful, immersive experiences—not routine expenses.
Important Dates & Application Details
Ready to take the leap?
- Deadline: Friday, November 1, 2024
- Application Portal: Click here to apply
Make sure you prepare a well-documented application that clearly outlines your project, objectives, and how your work aligns with ASF’s mission of cross-cultural exchange.
Past Impact: Over 4,000 Dreams Realized
Since its founding, ASF has awarded over 4,000 fellowships and grants, changing the lives of countless individuals. In just one year—2019 alone—more than $725,000 in funding was distributed to 63 students, artists, and professionals.
Your story could be next.
Contact Information
Have questions or need guidance? Reach out directly:
The American-Scandinavian Foundation
58 Park Avenue @ 38th Street, New York, NY 10016
212.779.3587
info@amscan.org
www.scandinaviahouse.org | www.amscan.org
For fellowship and grant-specific queries:
grants@amscan.org