Embarking on a new academic or professional journey can be a transformative experience, especially when it involves international collaboration. For African scholars and researchers, the opportunity to advance their work at a world-class institution is invaluable. This blog post introduces the highly sought-after, fully funded University of California (UC) Berkeley Visiting Fellowships for African scholars in 2026. This prestigious program is designed to empower emerging and mid-career academics by providing them with a platform to engage in groundbreaking research, build global networks, and contribute to a vibrant intellectual community.
Are you a researcher or academic affiliated with an African institution, holding a PhD, and passionate about your field? If so, this fellowship could be your next big step. We’ll explore the key details of this remarkable opportunity, including the generous financial support, the application process, and what makes the UC Berkeley experience so unique for visiting fellows. Read on to discover how you can become a part of this global initiative and take your scholarly pursuits to the next level.
Eligibility Criteria For The University of California (UC) Berkeley Visiting Fellowships
To be considered for the UC Berkeley Visiting Fellowships for Africans in 2026, applicants must meet a specific set of requirements.
- Nationality and Residency: Applicants must be residents of an African country.
- Institutional Affiliation: Candidates must be currently affiliated with an African institution, such as a university, a think tank, a research institute, or a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO).
- Educational Qualification: A PhD must be in possession at the time of application.
- Research Potential: Applicants must demonstrate a strong potential to make a significant contribution to their field of study.
- Field of Study: While the fellowship is open to a wide range of disciplines, preference is given to research proposals that focus on critical issues facing the continent. These include, but are not limited to, youth, labor, livelihoods, mobility, displacement, technology, democracy, and future studies.
Application Process For The University of California (UC) Berkeley Visiting Fellowships
The application process for this fellowship is straightforward and requires the submission of two key documents.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A comprehensive CV detailing your academic background, professional experience, publications, and any other relevant achievements.
- Research Proposal: A clear and concise research proposal is crucial. It should not exceed two pages in length (excluding references) and should outline your research project, its objectives, methodology, and its relevance to your field.
All application materials must be submitted via email to the Center for African Studies at the designated email address: asc@berkeley.edu.
Benefits Of The University of California (UC) Berkeley Visiting Fellowships
- Financial Support: The fellowship covers all essential expenses, including a monthly stipend for accommodation, meals, and incidental costs. It also includes support for international travel, visa processing, and health insurance.
- Academic and Research Resources: Fellows gain full access to UC Berkeley’s extensive libraries, state-of-the-art research facilities, and intellectual resources.
- Mentorship and Networking: The program offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with and be mentored by UC Berkeley faculty. Fellows are expected to engage with the Center for African Studies’ vibrant academic community and network with peers.
- Mentorship of Scholars: A key component of the fellowship is the expectation that visiting fellows will mentor Mastercard Foundation Scholars, enriching the academic experience for a new generation of African students.
- Duration: The fellowship spans one semester, approximately four months, and is a non-renewable opportunity.
Deadline For The University of California (UC) Berkeley Visiting Fellowships
The deadline for submitting applications for the 2026 University of California (UC) Berkeley Visiting Fellowships is September 5, 2025. It is highly recommended that interested applicants prepare their documents well in advance to ensure a timely submission.
Conclusion
The UC Berkeley Visiting Fellowships for Africans offer an extraordinary opportunity for scholars to advance their research and careers. This program is more than just a financial grant; it’s a gateway to a world-class academic ecosystem, a network of leading experts, and a community of passionate scholars.
By joining this fellowship, you will not only enrich your own scholarly work but also contribute to the vibrant intellectual life at one of the world’s leading public universities. The mentorship, resources, and collaborative environment are designed to empower you to make a lasting impact in your field and in your home country.