The New York Fellowship 2028 offers artists, scholars and arts professionals from eligible Asian countries an opportunity to spend six months in New York City, United States. Organized by the Asian Cultural Council (ACC), the programme provides a $38,000 USD grant to support cultural exchange, professional exploration and living expenses.
The fellowship allows participants to experience New York’s artistic and cultural environment, meet professionals from different disciplines and develop new perspectives on their creative work.
Unlike traditional academic programmes, this fellowship does not require participants to complete university coursework or produce a final artistic project.
Instead, fellows can explore cultural institutions, attend performances and exhibitions, participate in discussions and develop meaningful professional connections.
The programme offers two six-month cohorts in 2028. Applicants must be available for the full fellowship period.
The Asian Cultural Council provides financial support, assistance with the J-1 visa sponsorship process and guidance throughout the programme.
However, the $38,000 grant is intended to cover fellowship-related expenses. Certain costs, including insurance and optional arranged housing, are deducted from the award.
Applications for the 2027 ACC grant cycle opened on 1 October 2026. The application deadline is 10 November 2026, while recommendation letters must be submitted by 16 November 2026.
Interested applicants can review the official Asian Cultural Council fellowship guidelines.
New York Fellowship 2028 Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Fellowship | ACC New York Fellowship |
| Organizer | Asian Cultural Council |
| Host Country | United States |
| Location | New York City |
| Application Cycle | 2027 ACC Grant Cycle |
| Fellowship Year | 2028 |
| Duration | Six months |
| Funding | $38,000 USD grant |
| Eligible Applicants | Artists, scholars and arts professionals from eligible Asian countries and regions |
| Minimum Age | 21 years by the fellowship start |
| Experience | At least five years in an eligible discipline |
| First Cohort | 1 January – 30 June 2028 |
| Second Cohort | 1 July – 31 December 2028 |
| Visa | ACC-sponsored J-1 visa required |
| Application Deadline | 10 November 2026 |
| Recommendation Deadline | 16 November 2026 |
| Selection Results | Expected in mid-May 2027 |
| Application Method | Online through ACC GoApply |
What Is the New York Fellowship?
The New York Fellowship is an international cultural exchange programme offered by the Asian Cultural Council.
It brings together artists, scholars and cultural professionals from different Asian countries and regions.
Selected fellows spend six months in New York City, where they can explore cultural practices, meet professionals and learn from the city’s diverse artistic communities.
The programme emphasizes exploration, reflection and cultural exchange.
Rather than requiring participants to produce a film, exhibition, performance or publication, ACC encourages them to develop their knowledge and artistic perspectives.
Fellows can attend cultural events, visit institutions and engage with professionals working in their fields.
They also participate in activities organized by ACC.
The programme is designed to help participants develop meaningful connections and bring new ideas back to their communities.
About the Asian Cultural Council
The Asian Cultural Council is a nonprofit organization that supports international cultural exchange between Asia and the United States and within Asia.
Established in 1963, ACC has supported thousands of artists, scholars and cultural professionals.
Its work focuses on encouraging understanding, collaboration and meaningful dialogue across cultures.
The organization provides fellowships and grants for individuals and cultural organizations.
ACC currently offers several funding opportunities, including the New York Fellowship, Individual Fellowship, Graduate Fellowship and Organization Grant.
Each programme has different objectives, funding arrangements and eligibility requirements.
The New York Fellowship specifically supports an extended cultural exchange experience in the United States.
Is the New York Fellowship 2028 Fully Funded?
The programme provides substantial financial support through a $38,000 USD grant.
This funding is intended to support the six-month fellowship, including travel, accommodation, insurance, living expenses and cultural activities.
However, applicants should understand how the grant is administered.
The $38,000 is not an unrestricted cash award provided in addition to free accommodation and other benefits.
ACC deducts certain programme expenses from the total grant.
Grant Breakdown
| Funding Detail | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total fellowship grant | $38,000 USD |
| Travel-related advance | $3,000 USD, included in the grant |
| SEVIS fee | $220, deducted from the grant |
| Mandatory travel health insurance | Approximately $675–800, deducted |
| Optional International House accommodation | Approximately $19,400–20,600 for six months, deducted if selected |
| Estimated funds received after arrival | Approximately $10,000–31,100, depending on arrangements |
The remaining funds must support the fellow’s expenses during the programme.
Travel Advance
ACC provides a $3,000 advance for travel-related costs.
This amount is part of the total $38,000 grant.
It may help fellows pay for airfare and other pre-arrival expenses.
Accommodation
Subject to availability, fellows may stay at International House in New York.
The estimated six-month cost is deducted from the grant.
Participants may also arrange their own accommodation.
However, ACC does not take responsibility for independently arranged housing.
Health Insurance
Travel health insurance is mandatory.
ACC arranges the required coverage and deducts the applicable cost from the fellowship grant.
Visa-Related Expenses
ACC sponsors the required J-1 exchange visitor visa.
However, fellows must complete the visa application process and pay the applicable visa application fee.
Living Expenses
The fellowship grant is intended to support daily expenses during the six-month stay.
Participants should prepare a realistic budget because New York City can be expensive.
Cultural Activities
The grant can support appropriate cultural exchange activities, including visits to museums, exhibitions, performances and other relevant events.
Important: Although the fellowship is substantially funded, applicants should not assume that ACC pays every expense separately or that the full $38,000 will be available as spending money after arrival.
What Does the Fellowship Offer?
Six Months in New York City
Participants spend an extended period exploring one of the world’s major cultural centers.
Cultural Exchange
Fellows engage with different artistic communities and cultural practices.
Professional Networking
Participants may meet artists, scholars, curators and other professionals.
ACC Activities
The organization arranges group activities, visits and opportunities for discussion.
Peer Learning
Fellows join a cohort of participants from different disciplines and backgrounds.
Individual Guidance
ACC staff provide support related to fellowship objectives, cultural activities and practical arrangements.
Alumni Connections
Participants may connect with ACC alumni and other cultural professionals.
Professional Development
The experience can help fellows expand their perspectives and develop new approaches to their work.
Fellowship Dates and Duration
The New York Fellowship lasts six months.
Selected participants must join one of two cohorts.
First Cohort
1 January – 30 June 2028
Second Cohort
1 July – 31 December 2028
Applicants may indicate their preferred period.
However, ACC makes the final cohort assignment.
Fellows must arrive in the United States during the first week of their assigned programme and remain until the final week.
Applicants should therefore ensure they can take leave from their professional and academic commitments.
Eligible Countries and Regions
The New York Fellowship is intended for citizens or legal permanent residents of eligible Asian countries and regions.
The ACC eligibility list includes:
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Bhutan
- Brunei
- Cambodia
- Mainland China
- East Timor
- Hong Kong SAR
- India
- Indonesia
- Japan
- South Korea
- Laos
- Macau SAR
- Malaysia
- Mongolia
- Myanmar
- Nepal
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- Singapore
- Sri Lanka
- Taiwan
- Thailand
- Vietnam
Applicants must satisfy ACC’s citizenship or legal permanent residency rules.
Temporary student visas and renewable work visas do not automatically qualify as permanent residency.
U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents are not eligible for the New York Fellowship.
Applicants with complex citizenship or residency circumstances should contact the relevant ACC office for clarification.
Who Can Apply for the New York Fellowship?
Applicants must satisfy the general ACC requirements and additional conditions for the New York Fellowship.
Minimum Age
Applicants must be at least 21 years old when the fellowship begins.
Citizenship or Residency
Candidates must be citizens or legal permanent residents of an eligible Asian country or region.
Professional Background
Applicants must work in an eligible arts or cultural discipline.
Experience
At least five years of relevant experience are required at the time of application.
English Proficiency
Applicants must be confident communicating in English and managing everyday activities independently.
This is particularly important because the fellowship involves a J-1 visa.
Full-Time Availability
Fellows must be available for the entire six-month period.
No Paid Employment
Participants cannot undertake paid employment during the fellowship.
This restriction also applies to remote work for employers or clients outside the United States.
No University Coursework
Fellows cannot pursue university coursework during the programme.
No Teaching
Teaching activities are not permitted during the fellowship.
Previous Fellowship Participation
Applicants who have previously received an ACC New York Fellowship cannot apply for another one.
Eligible Arts and Cultural Disciplines
ACC supports applicants working in the following disciplines:
Architecture
Including architectural design, history and theory.
Archaeology
Research and cultural work involving archaeological heritage.
Art History
Study and interpretation of artistic traditions and developments.
Arts Administration
Management and administration of arts and cultural institutions.
Arts Criticism
Critical writing and analysis related to artistic practices.
Conservation
Preservation and conservation of cultural and artistic materials.
Crafts
Traditional and contemporary craft practices.
Curation
Curatorial research, exhibitions and cultural interpretation.
Dance
Dance research, practice and cultural exchange.
Ethnomusicology
Study of music in its cultural and social contexts.
Film
Film-related artistic and scholarly practices.
Literature
Literary research, writing and cultural exchange.
Museum Studies
Research and professional work connected with museums.
Music
Musical practice, research and cultural exchange.
Theater
Theater practice, research and performance-related study.
Visual Art
Visual artistic practices, including photography and video art.
Applicants should select the discipline that best reflects their professional background and proposed fellowship activities.
What Activities Can Fellows Undertake?
The fellowship emphasizes cultural immersion and professional exploration.
Examples of suitable activities include:
Visiting Cultural Institutions
Fellows may visit museums, galleries, libraries and other institutions.
Attending Performances
Participants can explore different artistic traditions through performances and cultural events.
Meeting Professionals
Fellows may connect with artists, scholars, curators and other specialists.
Participating in Workshops
Relevant workshops and discussions can support professional learning.
Exploring Artistic Practices
Participants may investigate unfamiliar approaches, methods and cultural perspectives.
Developing Professional Connections
The programme encourages relationships that can continue beyond the fellowship.
Reflecting on Creative Work
Fellows have time to consider how new experiences may influence their future practice.
The fellowship is not designed primarily to finance the production or promotion of a specific commercial or public project.
Activities That Are Not Supported
ACC has clear restrictions on how fellowship funding may be used.
The programme does not support activities primarily intended to produce or promote predetermined projects.
Examples include:
- Producing a film or documentary
- Financing an exhibition
- Recording an album
- Publishing a book
- Conducting promotional tours
- Purchasing major production equipment
- Participating in a full-time residency programme
- Using the grant only to attend a single event
Applicants should propose activities that genuinely support cultural exchange, exploration and learning.
Visa Requirements
Selected New York Fellows must enter the United States on an ACC-sponsored J-1 visa.
ACC states that this requirement applies without exception.
ACC Visa Sponsorship
ACC begins the sponsorship process approximately six months before the fellowship.
Applicant Responsibilities
Fellows must provide the required information, complete the DS-160 application, pay the applicable visa fee and attend any required interview.
Work Restrictions
Paid employment is not permitted during the fellowship.
This includes remote employment for organizations outside the United States.
International Travel
Travel outside the United States during the fellowship requires ACC approval and the appropriate documentation.
Travel Planning
Applicants should follow ACC’s instructions and avoid making irreversible travel arrangements before receiving the necessary authorization.
Application Deadline and Selection Timeline
The 2027 ACC grant cycle follows the schedule below.
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 1 October 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 10 November 2026 |
| Recommendation Deadline | 16 November 2026 |
| Review and Selection | November 2026 – April 2027 |
| Expected Notifications | Mid-May 2027 |
| Fellowship Period | January–June or July–December 2028 |
The application deadline is 10 November 2026 at 9:59 AM U.S. Eastern Time.
Recommendation letters must arrive by 16 November 2026 at 9:59 AM U.S. Eastern Time.
Applicants should submit their applications early enough to give recommenders sufficient time.
How to Apply for New York Fellowship 2028
Applications must be submitted through ACC’s official GoApply platform.
Step 1: Visit the ACC Website
Open the Asian Cultural Council Grant Opportunities page.
Step 2: Review the Fellowship Guidelines
Read the eligibility, funding and programme requirements carefully.
Step 3: Check Your Eligibility
Confirm that you meet the citizenship, age, experience and discipline requirements.
Step 4: Open GoApply
Use the official application link provided on the ACC website.
Step 5: Create an Individual Account
New applicants must register for an individual account.
Returning applicants may use their existing login details.
Step 6: Select the New York Fellowship
Open the Opportunities section and choose the New York Fellowship application.
Step 7: Complete Personal Information
Provide your biographical details and contact information.
Step 8: Prepare Your Professional Profile
Include your education, professional experience and artistic or scholarly background.
Step 9: Write Your Fellowship Statement
Explain your interests, cultural exchange goals and reasons for spending six months in New York.
Step 10: Upload Supporting Materials
Submit the documents and work samples required by the application form.
Step 11: Provide Recommender Information
Enter the details of the person or people who will provide the required recommendation letters.
Step 12: Submit Your Application
Complete the online application by 10 November 2026.
Step 13: Follow Up With Your Recommender
ACC sends recommendation upload instructions after the application has been submitted.
Ensure the required letter reaches ACC by 16 November 2026.
Step 14: Prepare for Possible Interviews
Shortlisted applicants may be invited to participate in a virtual interview.
Step 15: Wait for the Final Decision
ACC expects to notify applicants in mid-May 2027.
Official application guidelines: ACC New York Fellowship
Documents Required
ACC’s application guidelines identify several important materials.
Biographical Information
Applicants must provide personal and contact details.
CV or Resume
A professional CV should describe relevant education, experience and achievements.
Biography
Applicants should provide a summary of their artistic or professional background.
Personal or Artist Statement
This statement should explain their practice, interests and professional development.
Work Samples
ACC requires three work samples.
Applicants should follow the instructions for their discipline.
Recommendation Letter
A recommendation letter is required.
The recommender submits it through the official application system after the applicant has submitted the application.
Professional Contacts
ACC requests details of two professional contacts.
Additional Information
The application may request details about fellowship objectives, proposed activities and availability.
Applicants should follow the latest GoApply instructions.
How to Write a Strong Fellowship Proposal
A strong application should demonstrate a meaningful reason for undertaking cultural exchange in New York.
Explain Your Professional Background
Describe your artistic or scholarly practice and relevant experience.
Identify Your Learning Goals
Explain what you hope to explore during the fellowship.
Show Why New York Matters
Describe how New York’s cultural institutions and communities relate to your interests.
Focus on Cultural Exchange
Discuss opportunities for dialogue, learning and professional interaction.
Avoid Production-Focused Proposals
Do not frame the fellowship mainly as funding to produce a film, exhibition or publication.
Demonstrate Independence
Show that you can manage your time and pursue meaningful activities.
Explain Future Impact
Describe how the experience could influence your future work and professional community.
Be Specific
Use realistic examples rather than broad statements about international exposure.
How Competitive Is the Fellowship?
The New York Fellowship is a selective international opportunity.
ACC reviews applications for eligibility and then involves experts from relevant disciplines in the evaluation process.
Shortlisted applicants may be invited to virtual interviews.
Final selections are approved by ACC’s Global Board of Trustees.
The selection process considers the applicant’s professional background, fellowship objectives and alignment with ACC’s cultural exchange mission.
Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee selection.
Can Students Apply?
The New York Fellowship is not a general undergraduate scholarship.
It is primarily intended for experienced artists, scholars and cultural professionals.
Applicants must have at least five years of relevant experience.
Additionally, fellows cannot continue university coursework during the six-month programme.
Therefore, a student who is unable to take leave from academic studies may not be suitable for this opportunity.
Graduate students working in relevant disciplines may consider the programme if they meet all requirements and can fully commit to the fellowship.
ACC also offers a separate Graduate Fellowship for eligible students pursuing academic degrees in the United States.
New York Fellowship vs ACC Individual Fellowship
The Asian Cultural Council offers another programme called the Individual Fellowship.
Although both support cultural exchange, they differ in structure and funding.
| Feature | New York Fellowship | Individual Fellowship |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Fixed six months | One to six months |
| Location | New York, USA | Eligible destinations in Asia or the USA |
| Funding | $38,000 | Up to $35,000 |
| Structure | Cohort-based programme | Individual or joint cultural exchange |
| Activities | Cultural immersion and exploration | Self-directed research and exchange |
| Applicants | Eligible Asian artists and cultural professionals | Eligible applicants under ACC rules |
| Application | ACC GoApply | ACC GoApply |
Applicants should select the programme that best matches their objectives.
ACC permits only one application per applicant in a grant cycle.
Other International Fellowships to Explore
Applicants interested in international professional development can also explore the Yale World Fellows Program, which brings experienced professionals together for a leadership-focused programme in the United States.
Another option is the CrossCulture Programme, which supports international professional exchange and collaboration.
Those interested in research opportunities may also explore the KAUST Global Fellowship, which supports eligible researchers in Saudi Arabia.
These programmes serve different professional groups and have separate eligibility requirements.
Applicants should compare the official information before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the New York Fellowship 2028?
It is a six-month cultural exchange fellowship offered by the Asian Cultural Council.
Who organizes the fellowship?
The Asian Cultural Council.
Where will the fellowship take place?
New York City, United States.
Is the fellowship fully funded?
It provides a $38,000 grant intended to support fellowship expenses. Some costs are deducted from the award, and participants must manage their remaining budget.
How much funding is provided?
$38,000 USD for six months.
Is accommodation included?
Accommodation can be arranged through International House, subject to availability, with the cost deducted from the grant.
Does ACC provide airfare?
The grant includes a $3,000 advance that can help cover travel-related expenses, including airfare.
Does ACC sponsor visas?
Yes. Selected New York Fellows must use an ACC-sponsored J-1 visa.
Is the visa application fee covered separately?
No. Fellows are responsible for the applicable visa application fee.
What is the minimum age?
21 years by the start of the fellowship.
Is professional experience required?
Yes. Applicants must have at least five years of relevant experience.
Can international applicants apply?
Eligible citizens or legal permanent residents of the listed Asian countries and regions may apply.
Can U.S. citizens apply?
No. U.S. citizens and permanent residents are excluded from the New York Fellowship.
Can Pakistani applicants apply?
Yes, provided they meet all other eligibility requirements.
Can Indian applicants apply?
Yes, subject to the same programme conditions.
Is IELTS required?
ACC requires sufficient English proficiency for independent communication but does not list a universal IELTS score in the general fellowship guidelines.
Can undergraduate students apply?
The programme is intended for experienced arts and cultural professionals. Applicants must satisfy the five-year experience requirement.
Can fellows work remotely?
No. Paid work is prohibited during the fellowship, including remote employment.
Can fellows study at a university?
No university coursework is permitted during the programme.
Can fellows teach?
No. Teaching is not permitted during the fellowship.
How long does the fellowship last?
Six months.
What are the fellowship dates?
January–June 2028 or July–December 2028.
Can applicants choose their cohort?
They may indicate a preference, but ACC makes the final assignment.
What is the application deadline?
10 November 2026 at 9:59 AM U.S. Eastern Time.
When are recommendation letters due?
16 November 2026 at 9:59 AM U.S. Eastern Time.
When will results be announced?
Notifications are expected in mid-May 2027.
Is there an application fee?
ACC does not advertise an application fee for submitting a fellowship application.
Can applicants apply for multiple ACC fellowships?
No. Applicants may apply to only one ACC programme per grant cycle.
Where can applicants apply?
Through the official ACC GoApply application platform.
Final Thoughts
The New York Fellowship 2028 in USA offers an exceptional opportunity for eligible artists, scholars and cultural professionals to experience six months of cultural exchange in New York City.
Organized by the Asian Cultural Council, the programme provides a $38,000 grant to support travel, accommodation, insurance, living expenses and cultural activities.
Fellows can explore New York’s cultural institutions, engage with professionals and develop new perspectives on their artistic or scholarly work.
However, applicants should understand that the grant covers programme expenses rather than providing $38,000 in unrestricted spending money.
Candidates must be at least 21 years old, have five years of relevant experience and be citizens or legal permanent residents of eligible Asian countries or regions.
They must also be available for the entire six-month fellowship and comply with the programme’s work and study restrictions.
The application deadline is 10 November 2026, and recommendation letters must arrive by 16 November 2026.
Interested applicants should carefully review the official guidelines and prepare their applications before the deadline.
Official Fellowship Guidelines and Application: Asian Cultural Council — New York Fellowship
Last verified: 24 October 2026
Pathfinderly is an independent educational opportunities website and is not affiliated with the Asian Cultural Council. Fellowship requirements, funding arrangements, deadlines and application procedures may change. Applicants should always follow the official ACC guidelines.