Visiting Scholars

Becoming a Visiting Scholar at POLIS

The Department of POLIS accepts applications from established scholars in higher education institutions worldwide for short-term research visits.

Please note: We cannot provide office space, secretarial services, academic supervision, housing assistance, or visa processing.

Bench Fees: £3,000 per term (or part-term) or £2,500 for summer periods (inclusive of VAT).

Payment: Fees must be paid in advance via our online store (preferred) or bank transfer (with prior notification). The applicant covers all additional bank clearance charges.
Requirement: Proof of payment is required prior to arrival.
Waivers: Fees may be waived for those making major teaching contributions or engaged in substantial research collaborations with permanent staff, subject to Departmental Executive Committee approval.

Applications are reviewed year-round. Email the following to visitors@polis.cam.ac.uk.

Completed application form
Current CV/ resumé
High-quality passport style digital photograph (for University ID card)
One-page outline of proposed research to be undertaken at Cambridge
Academic Sponsor: You must nominate a permanent POLIS staff member as a departmental liaison during the period of your stay. They will be asked to submit fill in a Declaration Form with a short supporting statement upon receipt of your application detailing the nature of your proposed research collaboration and/or teaching contribution.

Visas: Applicants are responsible for their own UK immigration compliance. Non-UK/EEA nationals typically require an Academic Visitor visa.
Housing: The Department cannot assist with housing. Please consult the University Accommodation Service.

We only host visiting students via two routes: