Deadline: 05-Oct-2025
The Fulbright South African Research Scholar Program (SARSP) is an opportunity for South African university faculty or research institute professionals to conduct research in their field of expertise at a U.S. academic or research Institution for a period of 3 to 9 months.
A research grant enables the scholar to perform high-level research at a U.S. academic or research institution, aimed at strengthening academic programs or curricula at his/her home institution.
The grant coverage includes a monthly stipend based on the cost of living at the research site, round trip airfare, excess baggage allowance for return travel, professional allowance for books, conferences, and seminars, settling-in allowance, primary medical insurance coverage, and visa application fee.
Qualifying applicants have a proven track record of productive scholarly research, teaching and publication. Research programs of 3 to 9 months are commenced between August 1, 2026 and March 31, 2027; to be completed by December 31, 2027.
Applicants must hold a doctorate or equivalent terminal degree in their fields at the time of application. Preference will be given to individuals who have a minimum of 3 years of university teaching experience and a productive scholarly record. Applicants must be a South African citizen or a permanent resident with a minimum of 5 years of permanent residency status in South Africa. The Fulbright South African Research Scholar Program is open to scholars in all disciplines except clinical medical research, and without regard to gender or age; however, proposals for clinical medical research involving patient contact cannot be approved under the Fulbright Program.
Applications for doctoral dissertation research, post-doctoral research immediately following completion of a doctorate degree, or general professional travel, are ineligible. Preference will be given to candidates who have not previously received a Fulbright scholar grant and have had no experience or only limited experience in the U.S. Applicants must have sufficient proficiency in English to carry out their projects and collaborate effectively with colleagues. Applicants must be in good health. Scholars who were unsuccessful in previous competitions may re-apply.
Applicants are discouraged from requesting affiliation with an alma mater, though the program will honor institutional preferences as far as possible. For those unfamiliar with U.S. institutions, the Fulbright Program can assist in identifying a suitable host institution. Applicants should note that laboratory fees are not part of the standard benefits package and are awarded only on a limited, case-by-case basis if funding is available.
Applications must be submitted through the online application system by completing all relevant information and uploading required documents. Each application should include a well written research proposal with well explained methodology that can be understood by a general reviewing committee, three confidential letters of reference uploaded by referees through the system, and a Letter of Invitation from a U.S. host institution, which is strongly encouraged and preferred though not required. The closing date for applications is October 5, 2025.
For more information, visit U.S. Embassy and Consulates in South Africa.
