The National Coalition of Independent Scholars (NCIS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization providing professional affiliation, resources, and support services to scholars outside of tenured academia. Based in the United States, NCIS membership and activities extend internationally, with more than 250 scholars in 26 countries in Europe, Asia, Australia, and North and South America. Scholars across all disciplines may apply for membership; candidates are evaluated based on intellectual contribution, scholarly rigor, and independent status. At least one publication in a reputable journal should demonstrate an original contribution to the chosen discipline’s accumulated knowledge.

NCIS regularly offers online events and workshops, and periodically sponsors or holds conferences such as the September “International Conference on Creative Research Methods” (Manchester, England). In June 2019, members gathered at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, for the international conference “Making Connections, Meeting Challenges. ”NCIS also publishes an open-access, peer-reviewed journal, The Independent Scholar, now in its 11th volume.

NCIS is an affiliate of the American Historical Association and a member of the Alliance of Nonprofits.