The Center for African Studies Visiting Fellowships offers a fully funded academic opportunity for researchers based in Africa to advance their work at a globally recognized institution. Hosted by the Center for African Studies at the University of California, Berkeley, this fellowship is supported by the Mastercard Foundation.
Designed to strengthen academic research and collaboration, the program provides selected fellows with the resources, time, and environment needed to focus on impactful research projects while building international academic connections.
Overview of the Fellowship
The Visiting Fellowship is a four-month, fully funded program scheduled to begin no later than January 19, 2027. It is specifically tailored for Africa-based scholars who are actively engaged in research or academic work.
This fellowship is non-renewable and aims to provide a focused period for intellectual growth, collaboration, and contribution to the academic community at UC Berkeley.
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Purpose and Objectives
The primary goal of the fellowship is to empower African researchers by offering them a platform to deepen their work and engage with global academic networks. Fellows will have the opportunity to:
- Conduct independent, high-quality research
- Complete a major academic article or book project
- Build meaningful collaborations with UC Berkeley faculty
- Contribute to academic discussions and knowledge exchange
In addition, fellows are expected to enrich the academic environment by mentoring scholars supported by the Mastercard Foundation during their stay.
Who is Eligible?
The fellowship is open to applicants who meet the following criteria:
- Must be residents of an African country
- Currently hold a position at:
- A university
- A research institution
- A think tank
- A non-governmental organization
- Actively engaged in academic or research-related work
This ensures that selected fellows bring valuable experience and can benefit fully from the program’s academic resources.
Fellowship Benefits
The Center for African Studies Visiting Fellowship provides a range of benefits that support both professional and personal development:
1. Fully Funded Research Opportunity
Fellows receive financial support that allows them to focus entirely on their research without external distractions.
2. Access to World-Class Resources
Participants gain access to UC Berkeley’s extensive academic libraries, research tools, and intellectual community.
3. Academic Collaboration
Fellows can engage with leading scholars, participate in seminars, and build long-term research partnerships.
4. Mentorship Opportunities
Participants will mentor Mastercard Foundation Scholars, contributing to the development of the next generation of African leaders.
5. Global Exposure
The program offers international visibility and the chance to present research in a globally respected academic setting.
Fellowship Structure
The program is structured to maximize productivity and engagement within a short timeframe:
- Duration: 4 months (one academic semester)
- Start Date: No later than January 19, 2027
- Location: University of California, Berkeley, USA
During this period, fellows are expected to actively participate in the academic life of the Center for African Studies while focusing on their research goals.
Why You Should Apply
The Center for African Studies Visiting Fellowship is an exceptional opportunity for African scholars looking to:
- Advance their research in a supportive and resource-rich environment
- Collaborate with internationally recognized academics
- Gain exposure to global research standards and practices
- Strengthen their academic profile and career prospects
By participating, fellows not only enhance their own work but also contribute to broader conversations about Africa’s development, policy, and innovation.
Application Deadline
Interested candidates should note the key deadline:
- Application Deadline: April 17, 2026
Applicants are encouraged to prepare their materials early and ensure they meet all eligibility requirements before submission.
Apply Now!
The Center for African Studies Visiting Fellowships 2027 stands out as a prestigious and impactful program for African researchers. By combining funding, mentorship, and access to a world-class academic environment, the fellowship creates a unique opportunity for scholars to elevate their work and expand their influence.
If you are an Africa-based researcher seeking to complete a major academic project while building global connections, this fellowship could be a significant step forward in your career.
For more information, visit the Center for African Studies Visiting Fellowships.
