The British Academy is the United Kingdom's national academy for the humanities and the social sciences. It was established in 1902 and received its royal charter in the same year. It is now a fellowship of more than 1,000 leading scholars spanning all disciplines across the humanities and social sciences and a funding body for research projects across the United Kingdom. The academy is a self-governing and independent registered charity, based at 10–11 Carlton House Terrace in London. The academy states that it has five fundamental purposes: To speak up for the humanities and the social sciences To invest in the very best researchers and research To inform and enrich debate around society's greatest questions To ensure sustained international engagement and collaboration To make the most of the Academy's assets to secure the Academy for the future Election as a Fellow of the British Academy recognises high scholarly distinction in the humanities or social sciences, evidenced by published work. Fellows may use the letters FBA after their names.