Overview

The Visiting African Scholars Fellowship at Yale University is now accepting applications for the 2026–2027 academic year. This fellowship supports scholars based at African universities and aims to strengthen Africa-focused research, teaching, and academic exchange between Yale and the continent.

Deadline: December 15, 2025

If you are an African scholar seeking space, support, and global networks to advance your research and teaching, this fellowship provides a transformative platform. It is ideal for academics who want to deepen their scholarship, collaborate with leading thinkers, and contribute meaningfully to African studies at an international level.

Fellowship Details

Selected fellows will:

• Teach one course on an Africa-related topic in the humanities or social sciences (fall or spring semester).

• Develop and advance an individual research project.

• Deliver a public lecture to the Yale community.

• Participate fully in the academic and social activities of the Council on African Studies and the MacMillan Center.

The fellowship offers:

• A competitive stipend

• Research support

• Access to Yale’s extensive libraries and academic resources

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Hold a full-time academic position at an African university

• Have an earned doctorate in a relevant discipline

• Be able to remain in full-time residence at Yale from August 1, 2026, through the academic year

Application Requirements

Applications must be submitted through Interfolio and include:

1. Cover letter, including:

   • current email address

   • name of the Yale faculty member you wish to work with and why

2. Curriculum vitae (with publications)

3. 1,000-word research proposal

4. Names and contact information of two referees

   • Letters will be requested only if shortlisted

5. Course proposal, including a brief syllabus with readings and assignments

How to Apply

Submit your application via Interfolio here.

For inquiries, contact: rita.offiaeli@yale.edu
Subject line: Visiting African Scholars

The Yale University Visiting African Scholars Fellowship offers a rare and highly prestigious opportunity for African academics to spend a full academic year at one of the world’s leading universities. Fellows will teach, conduct independent research, engage with Yale’s vibrant intellectual community, and gain access to world-class academic resources. With a competitive stipend, research support, and global visibility, the program is designed to strengthen African scholarship and foster long-term academic collaboration.