The Wadsworth African Fellowship offers financial assistance to African students who are pursuing doctoral degrees in anthropology—including fields like archaeology and biological anthropology—at universities in South Africa. This fellowship provides a unique chance for budding scholars to access top-tier training, deepen their research skills, and contribute significantly to the field of anthropology, both within Africa and internationally.
Coverage of the Fellowship
The fellowship can be used for:
Travel, living expenses, and tuition fees
Taxes, student fees, and insurance
Books, research costs, and additional academic expenses
Recipients may renew the fellowship for up to two more years based on annual progress. An extra year of support is available for finalizing the dissertation.
Be Citizens and Residents of an African Nation
The fellowship supports African students who may lack the financial means to pursue a PhD.
Be Accepted or Applying to a PhD Program in South Africa
Candidates should have either applied to or been accepted by a South African university.
Meet Additional Eligibility Criteria
Demonstrate financial need
Have a sponsoring mentor at the chosen South African institution
Have a sponsor at the institution where they last completed a degree
Program Requirements
Candidates should illustrate that their selected host institution supports their academic and research goals and aligns with the foundation’s commitment to advancing anthropology, inclusivity, and societal impact.
Application Process
As the fellowship is highly competitive, only one candidate is selected annually. Applicants are encouraged to submit a complete, carefully prepared application that includes:
Basic applicant information
Statements of research focus, study plans, and career objectives
A detailed budget breakdown
Academic transcripts and language proficiency evidence
Curricula vitae for both the applicant and their sponsoring mentor
Letters of Recommendation
Applicants must provide letters from both their home and host sponsors. These letters should thoroughly assess the candidate’s academic potential and the strength of their support system.
Note: Applications are due by December 15 via the online portal. For those with limited internet access, alternative submission methods may be arranged if requested ahead of time.
Selection Criteria
Applications are reviewed for indicators of academic excellence, alignment with the foundation’s mission, and strong backing from both home and host sponsors. Successful applicants will show exceptional promise to contribute to anthropology and a firm commitment to enriching anthropological knowledge in their home country and beyond.
Deadline to Apply: December 15, 2024
