UC Berkeley Center for African Studies Visiting Fellowships 2027: Fully Funded for African Scholars

Application Deadline: April 17th, 2026.

The University of California Berkeley Center for African Studies Visiting Fellowships 2027 for African Scholars offers a fully funded chance for talented researchers. Supported by the Mastercard Foundation, this program brings two Africa-based scholars to UC Berkeley. They can focus on independent research, finish key writing projects, build links with faculty, and guide Mastercard Foundation Scholars.

This guide covers the fellowship’s goals, who can apply, what it provides, favored research areas, and steps to submit an application. Check the official webpage for all details.

Key Takeaways

• This fully funded program supports two Africa-based scholars for independent research and networking at UC Berkeley in 2027.
• Eligibility requires residing in Africa, holding a PhD by January 2022, and showing strong potential in your field.
• Fellows receive travel, accommodation at International House, living allowance, office space, and full access to libraries and events.
• Preferred topics include youth, labor, livelihoods, mobility, technology, democracy, and Africa’s futures, though all fields are welcome.

Fellowship Overview and Purpose

The fellowship lets Africa-based scholars spend time at UC Berkeley. They pursue their own research projects. Many use this stay to complete a major article or book.

Scholars also connect with UC Berkeley faculty. These ties help build lasting academic networks. Plus, fellows mentor Mastercard Foundation Scholars. This adds value to the Center for African Studies.

Two fellowships stand open for 2027. Here are the main goals:

• Conduct independent research
• Network with UC Berkeley experts
• Mentor Mastercard Foundation Scholars

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet these key points:

• Reside in an African country and work at an African university, think tank, or NGO
• Hold a PhD received on or before January 2022
• Show strong potential to advance their field
• Focus on topics like youth, labor, livelihoods, mobility, displacement, technology, democracy, or futures (preferred, but not required)

Fellowship Benefits

This program covers key needs for a smooth stay. The table below lists each benefit and its details.

Benefit	Details
Travel	Return economy class airfare to Berkeley, California
Accommodation	Stay at UC Berkeley’s International House
Financial Support	Subsistence allowance for daily living costs
Office Space	Desk and computer access at the Center for African Studies
Access to Resources	Full use of libraries, collections, online tools, and intellectual community
Academic Events	Join seminars and events by the Center and campus departments

Preferred Research Topics

The program welcomes all fields. Still, it favors work on pressing African issues. Here is a list with short notes on why they matter:

• Youth: Studies on challenges young Africans face in jobs and growth
• Labor: Research into work conditions and fair employment across Africa
• Livelihoods: Ideas for better income and daily life in tough settings
• Mobility: How people move for work, safety, or new chances
• Displacement: Effects of conflict or climate on those forced from home
• Technology: Role of tech in solving African problems or sparking change
• Democracy: Paths to stronger governance and citizen voices
• Futures: Plans for Africa’s next steps in society and economy

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Only two spots exist, so act fast. Follow these steps:

1. Read full details on the official webpage
2. Check if you meet all eligibility rules
3. Gather materials like your CV and research proposal (see official site for the full list)
4. Submit everything by April 17th, 2026

Note the mentoring duties for Mastercard Foundation Scholars.

Additional Support and Resources

Fellows gain entry to UC Berkeley’s top libraries and collections. They join a lively intellectual group. Seminars and events from the Center and other departments stay open to them.

For complete info and to apply, visit the official webpage.

The UC Berkeley Center for African Studies Visiting Fellowships 2027 provide African scholars with a fully funded opportunity to advance their research, build networks, and mentor students. With benefits like travel, housing, and access to top resources, it’s a great chance for eligible researchers. Visit the official webpage and submit your application by April 17th, 2026, to seize this spot.

Frequently Asked Questions