External fellowships are intended primarily for individuals currently teaching in or affiliated with an academic institution, but independent scholars may apply. Faculty fellowships are awarded across the spectrum of academic ranks (assistant, associate, and full professor) and a goal of the selection process is to create a diverse community of scholars. Applicants who are members of traditionally under-represented groups are encouraged to apply. There are no citizenship requirements for these fellowships; non-U.S. nationals are welcome to apply.

Research projects must be in the humanities. The Center is open to projects employing information technology in humanities research.

Fellowships are for one full academic year, and require the fellow to be in residence during Autumn, Winter, and Spring Quarters (mid-September to mid-June). External fellows are required to live within a ten-mile radius of Stanford University. Fellows are also expected to attend lunch regularly and to participate in weekly research presentations. During the year, faculty fellows are required to make an intellectual contribution to the Stanford community, usually by participating in a Geballe Research Workshop at the Humanities Center.