If you’ve ever been completely absorbed in a history book, picturing life in ancient Rome, Egypt, or Greece, you’re not alone. Ancient history has a way of pulling us in, making us wonder about the people, cultures, and events that shaped our world. But let’s be honest—pursuing a degree or research in this field can be expensive. That’s where scholarships come in! Think of them as golden tickets that help turn your passion for the past into a reality.
To support your journey, I’ve rounded up 10 amazing scholarships for ancient history enthusiasts. Whether you’re just starting out or already knee-deep in research, these opportunities can give you the financial boost you need. Let’s dive in!
1. The Rhodes Scholarship
What It Is: Imagine studying at the University of Oxford, surrounded by centuries of history and some of the brightest minds in the world. That’s exactly what the Rhodes Scholarship offers—it’s one of the most prestigious awards available, perfect for anyone passionate about ancient history.
Who Can Apply: Applicants from select countries (including the U.S., Canada, and Australia) with outstanding grades, leadership skills, and a desire to make a difference.
What You Get: Full tuition, a living stipend, and travel expenses covered. Plus, you’ll become part of a prestigious global network of Rhodes Scholars.
How to Apply: The application process is competitive—essays, recommendations, and interviews are required. Show your passion for ancient history and how you plan to contribute to the field.
2. The Fulbright Scholarship
What It Is: Ever dreamed of conducting research in Greece, Italy, or Egypt? The Fulbright Scholarship makes it possible by promoting cultural exchange and allowing scholars to immerse themselves in historical locations.
Who Can Apply: U.S. citizens with a strong academic background and a well-defined research plan. Language skills may be required depending on the destination.
What You Get: Funding for tuition, travel, living expenses, and health insurance, plus support from the Fulbright Commission in your host country.
How to Apply: You’ll need to submit a research proposal, recommendations, and complete an interview. Demonstrate how your work will deepen cross-cultural understanding and enrich historical knowledge.
3. The British Academy Postdoctoral Fellowship
What It Is: If you’ve recently completed a PhD and want to continue your research in ancient history, this fellowship allows you to work at a UK university, accessing top-notch resources and expert guidance.
Who Can Apply: Early-career researchers who earned their PhD within the last three years. Open to both UK and international applicants.
What You Get: Salary, research funding, and networking opportunities through the British Academy.
How to Apply: Submit a detailed research proposal, CV, and recommendations. Highlight what makes your work unique in the field of ancient history.
4. The Getty Foundation Research Grants
What It Is: If you’re fascinated by ancient art and material culture, the Getty Foundation provides grants to support research projects that explore the artistic legacy of ancient civilizations.
Who Can Apply: Scholars and researchers with a proven track record in ancient history.
What You Get: Funding for travel, archival work, and publishing your findings. Plus, access to the Getty Research Institute’s vast resources.
How to Apply: Submit a research proposal, budget, and recommendations. Show how your work will reveal new insights into ancient history.
5. The ASCSA Fellowships (American School of Classical Studies at Athens)
What It Is: If ancient Greece is your passion, this fellowship lets you study and research in Athens—the heart of classical civilization.
Who Can Apply: Graduate students and postdoctoral researchers focusing on ancient Greek history or archaeology.
What You Get: Tuition, housing, and research funding, plus access to the school’s renowned library, archives, and archaeological sites.
How to Apply: Submit a research proposal, CV, and recommendations. Show how your work will contribute to our understanding of ancient Greece.
6. The Rome Prize
What It Is: This prestigious award from the American Academy in Rome allows scholars to live in Rome while conducting advanced research in the humanities.
Who Can Apply: U.S. citizens or permanent residents with a strong background in ancient history or related fields.
What You Get: A stipend, housing, and access to top research resources.
How to Apply: Submit a research proposal, portfolio, and recommendations. Demonstrate how your work connects ancient history to modern culture.
7. The Loeb Classical Library Foundation Fellowship
What It Is: Supports research in classical studies, including ancient history, literature, and archaeology.
Who Can Apply: Scholars worldwide engaged in classical studies.
What You Get: Funding for research expenses, including travel and publishing.
How to Apply: Submit a research proposal, CV, and recommendations. Explain how your research enhances our understanding of antiquity.
8. The Society for the Promotion of Roman Studies Grants
What It Is: Provides funding for research and publications in Roman history and archaeology.
Who Can Apply: Scholars worldwide specializing in Roman history or archaeology.
What You Get: Funding for travel, fieldwork, and publishing.
How to Apply: Submit a research proposal, CV, and recommendations. Explain how your work advances Roman historical studies.
9. The Archaeological Institute of America (AIA) Fellowships
What It Is: Supports research and fieldwork in archaeology, including ancient history.
Who Can Apply: Scholars and researchers in archaeology or ancient history worldwide.
What You Get: Funding for research expenses, travel, and fieldwork.
How to Apply: Submit a research proposal, CV, and recommendations. Highlight how your work will preserve ancient history.
10. The Alexander S. Onassis Foundation Scholarships
What It Is: Supports studies in Greek culture, history, and language.
Who Can Apply: Graduate students and postdoctoral researchers worldwide.
What You Get: Tuition, housing, and research funding.
How to Apply: Submit a research proposal, CV, and recommendations. Show how your work deepens our understanding of ancient Greece.
Final Thoughts
Studying ancient history isn’t just about the past—it helps us understand our present and future. With these scholarships, you can turn your passion into a career without breaking the bank. Whether you’re drawn to the ruins of Rome, the temples of Greece, or the tombs of Egypt, there’s a scholarship waiting for you. So, take the leap, apply, and start your journey into the ancient world. Who knows? You might just make the next big discovery!
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