Launched in 2013, the Program in Buddhist Studies, administered by the American Council of Learned Societies, promotes the academic study of Buddhism, strengthens international networks of Buddhist Studies scholars, and increases the visibility of new knowledge and research on Buddhist traditions.
The program includes fellowships and grants that support research, writing, translation, teaching, and public positions in Buddhist Studies, as well as convenings, workshops, and special initiatives that foster networks and knowledge sharing amongst scholars, communities of practice, and the broader public.
With a renewed commitment from The Robert H. N. Ho Family Foundation Global in 2024, ACLS expanded the program with new initiatives designed to support the next generation of Buddhist Studies scholars, enhance public knowledge and understanding of Buddhism, and strengthen the program’s global network of scholars. The following programs have a deadline of November 20, 2025, 9 PM ET:
- Dissertation Fellowships: Ten-month stipends to PhD candidates for full-time preparation of dissertations.
- Early Career Research Fellowships: Nine-month stipends to pre-tenure scholars for research and writing.
- Public Impact Grants: One-year awards supporting collaborative or individual projects that will enhance public knowledge and understanding of Buddhism.