University of California Berkeley Visiting Fellowship 2026 | Fully Funded Opportunity for African Scholars
The Mastercard Foundation, in partnership with the Center for African Studies at the University of California, Berkeley, is offering fully funded Visiting Fellowships for African scholars in 2026. This prestigious program is designed to support academics who wish to pursue independent research in the United States and collaborate with UC Berkeley faculty, while also contributing to the academic community on campus.
If you’re an African PhD holder seeking an enriching research experience in the U.S., this article outlines everything you need to know—including eligibility, benefits, and the step-by-step application process.
UC Berkeley Visiting Fellowship Summary
- Host Institution: University of California, Berkeley, USA
- Program Type: Research Fellowship (non-renewable)
- Duration: One semester (4 months)
- Category: Postdoctoral Research / Fellowship
- Eligible Countries: All African countries
- Funding: Fully Funded – Includes travel, living expenses, and research support
- IELTS Requirement: Not Required
- Deadline: September 5, 2025
About the UC Berkeley Visiting Fellowship for Africans
The 2026 UC Berkeley Visiting Fellowship is a fully funded research opportunity sponsored by the Mastercard Foundation and administered by the Center for African Studies. Two fellowships will be awarded to African scholars interested in deepening their research, completing key publications, and engaging with UC Berkeley’s vibrant academic network.
This initiative fosters intellectual exchange, mentorship, and research excellence, while also building stronger academic ties between Africa-based institutions and UC Berkeley.
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Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the 2026 UC Berkeley Visiting Fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Residency: Must reside in an African country.
- Institutional Affiliation: Must be affiliated with a recognized African institution (e.g., university, think tank, or NGO).
- Academic Qualification: Must hold a PhD by the time of application.
- Research Potential: Must demonstrate a strong capacity to contribute meaningfully to their academic field.
- Preferred Research Focus: While all disciplines are welcome, preference is given to projects related to:
- Youth and employment
- Labor and livelihoods
- Mobility and displacement
- Technology and innovation
- Democracy and governance
- Future studies and development
Fellowship Benefits
The UC Berkeley Visiting Fellowship offers a range of benefits designed to support scholars during their stay:
- Full financial sponsorship covering:
- Round-trip airfare to the U.S.
- Visa processing fees
- Monthly living allowance
- Housing and local travel support
- Research Support: Fellows will have the opportunity to:
- Work independently on research or publications
- Collaborate with UC Berkeley faculty
- Participate in academic events and seminars
- Mentor Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Berkeley
Note: The fellowship duration is four months and must commence no later than January 20, 2026.
How to Apply for UC Berkeley Visiting Fellowship 2026
Here is a step-by-step guide to applying:
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A research proposal (maximum 2 pages, excluding references) detailing the goals and relevance of your work
- Submit Your Application:
- Email your CV and research proposal to asc@berkeley.edu before the deadline
- Application Deadline:
- September 5, 2025
Apply Now
Interested candidates should visit the official fellowship webpage or contact the Center for African Studies for further information.
This is a rare opportunity to expand your academic influence, build new networks, and contribute to impactful research at one of the world’s leading universities.
Deadline to apply: September 5, 2025
