Scholarships and Grants - Financial Aid in African Studies

The Committee on African Studies (CAS) offers a range of grants for students, both on-campus and in Africa, aimed at supporting research, language learning, and experiential opportunities. 

• Specific mention of Foreign Language Area Studies (FLAS) Fellowships for both the academic year and summer is made.
• The importance of including a letter of support from the organization when applying for an internship grant is emphasized.
• CAS grants cannot typically be used for travel to High-Risk region countries.
• Each student is required to submit their own individual application materials, and applications are reviewed separately. Proposals and letters of reference should be tailored to each applicant's academic and professional interests.
• CAS grantees come from various academic concentrations, but preference is given to students with coursework in African Studies, experience in the region, or relevant language skills related to Africa.

The Harvard South Africa Fellowship Program (HSAFP) was established by President Derek Bok in 1979 to address the educational disadvantages imposed by apartheid in South Africa. Initially designed for mid-career professionals who were denied access to advanced education, HSAFP now welcomes applicants regardless of ethnicity or race, aligning with the current South African constitution. Fellows are chosen based on their demonstrated skills in their respective fields and their potential to benefit from advanced training.

Key features of the Harvard South Africa fellowship program are:

• HSAFP aims to draw a broad range of candidates and expand its reach to institutions and organizations across South Africa.
• Fellows have diverse careers spanning education, law, public health, the arts and humanities, business, and other professions.
• Many HSAFP fellows have played prominent roles in South Africa upon their return, remaining engaged with the Harvard community both locally and globally.
• HSAFP offers fellowships for one year of study at Harvard's Professional Schools or Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.
• Tuition waivers are provided by the School once fellows are admitted.
• Administrative funds, stipends, and airfare for the fellow are provided by the Office of the President and managed by the Center for African Studies, directed by Professor John Mugane.

Eligibility criteria for the Harvard South Africa fellowship program are:

• Established by Harvard University President Derek Bok in 1979 to address the educational disadvantages imposed by the apartheid system in South Africa.
• Originally intended for mid-career professionals who were denied access to advanced education due to past laws and resource allocations in South Africa.
• Open to all South Africans who qualify, with priority given to mid-career applicants from historically marginalized or underrepresented groups, including those from rural areas.
• Ideal candidates are those who aim to model ethical leadership, knowledge sharing, and community improvement. Those solely seeking an advanced degree or professional certification for personal career advancement are not considered ideal candidates.