If you are a mid-career professional from South Africa committed to ethical leadership and community transformation, applications are now open for the Harvard South Africa Fellowship Program (HSAFP) 2025-2026 cohort. This esteemed fellowship offers an opportunity to study at Harvard University, equipping you with advanced skills to drive positive change upon your return.
Fellowship Summary
Host Institution: Harvard University, USA
Study Level: One-year graduate studies (Master's) or non-degree programmes
Funding Type: Fully funded
Award Duration: Up to one year
Application Deadline: April 15, 2025
Eligible to: South African citizens and permanent residents with at least five years of postgraduate work experience
Fellowship Overview
Established in 1979, the HSAFP aims to address educational disparities by providing South African professionals with transformative experiences at Harvard University. The program selects individuals who have demonstrated considerable skill in their fields and a commitment to public service. Fellows engage in up to one year of study at one of Harvard's professional schools or the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, with tuition provided by the participating school. The Center for African Studies manages the program, administering stipends and airfare for the fellows.
Eligible Programmes
Fellows will enroll in programmes that relevant to their professional backgrounds and leadership goals across various Harvard schools either leading to a formal degree (Master's) or a non-degree programme including:
1. Master's Programmes
Harvard Kennedy School: Mid-Career Master in Public Administration
Harvard Law School: Master of Laws
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health: Master of Public Health
2. Non-Degree Programmes
Advanced Management Program: Harvard Business School (HBS)
General Management Program: Harvard Business School
Program for Leadership Development: Harvard Business School
Special Student Status: Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
🌐 For details about each programme, navigate to this webpage and click on the link for each programme of your interest.
While the program does not necessarily lead to a formal degree, it offers a rich environment for academic growth, leadership training, and professional networking. Fellows are expected to actively participate in seminars, research initiatives, and conferences, contributing their unique perspectives to the Harvard community.
What Can Fellows Expect
Participants can anticipate a challenging and enriching experience that broadens their academic and professional horizons. The fellowship fosters an environment of intellectual rigor and cross-cultural exchange, preparing fellows to apply their enhanced skills and knowledge to address pressing issues in South Africa. Upon completion, fellows are expected to return to their home country and utilize their Harvard experience to drive societal development and transformation.
Fellowship Coverage and Benefits
The HSAFP provides comprehensive financial support, including:
Full payment of tuition fees for the duration of enrollment at Harvard
Round-trip airfare between the fellow's residence and Boston
Dormitory placement
A monthly stipend to cover living expenses
Access to Harvard's extensive academic resources and professional networks
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the HSAFP, Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Citizenship: Hold South African citizenship or permanent residency
Experience: Possess at least five years of postgraduate work experience
Academic record: Demonstrate strong academic and professional qualifications
Commitment: Show a commitment to public service and community development
English Language: Be able to conduct academic work in English at a high standard
Application Procedure
Interested candidates in the Harvard South Africa Fellowship Program (HSAFP) should follow these steps:
1. Complete the Online Application Form:
Accessible through the Harvard University Funding Portal, requiring registration for a secure login. The application opens on February 15, 2025, and closes on April 15, 2025.
2. Prepare Required Documents:
Updated curriculum vitae (CV)
Personal statement outlining career objectives and alignment with the fellowship
Two letters of recommendation from professional or academic referees
Academic transcripts (if applicable)
Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
3. Submit Application:
Ensure all components are completed and submitted by the application deadline of April 15, 2025.
⚠️ Important Note: Candidates selected as finalists must apply and gain admission to their specific Harvard program for the following academic year. For example, if you apply for the fellowship during the 2025 application cycle and are selected as a finalist, you must then apply for admission to your program in the next admissions cycle for the 2026-2027 academic year. If admitted, your fellowship will be awarded for 2026-2027. Failure to secure admission to a specific Harvard program will void the fellowship.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend HSAFP information sessions in February and March. These sessions provide insights into the program and application process and offer opportunities to ask questions before applying. To be informed of session dates, sign up for the Center for African Studies weekly newsletter or check the CAS website regularly.
ℹ️ For further information about the application process, visit this designated webpage or contact the Africa Office at [africaoffice@harvard.edu]
🔗 OFFICIAL LINK
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