OXFORD UNIVERSITY
Fully Funded African Studies Visiting Fellowship at Oxford 2027-28
- Full funding (est.)Funding Type
- Visiting fellowshipAward Type
- Bodleian Libraries, University of OxfordHost Institution
- Sub-Saharan AfricaEligible Region
- History of AfricaResearch Focus
- 2027-2028Fellowship Period
At a glance
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Funding
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Max amount
Rolling
Deadline
All countries in Sub-Saharan Africa
Country
Oxford University
Provider
The African Studies Visiting Fellowship at the University of Oxford is a fully funded research opportunity for scholars from Sub-Saharan Africa, offered by the Bodleian Libraries through the Africa Oxford Initiative. This program invites scholars affiliated with a university in Sub-Saharan Africa to conduct focused research using the extensive archival and special collections of the Bodleian Libraries, which date back to the 17th century. The fellowship aims to support research into the history of Africa, providing access to resources that may be difficult to obtain from home institutions. Successful applicants will have the chance to engage with an international academic environment and deepen their understanding of historical developments across the continent. The fellowship period is scheduled for 2027-2028, offering a unique opportunity for concentrated study within one of the world's major research libraries. The Bodleian Libraries comprise 28 libraries and hold over 13 million printed items. This initiative plays a crucial role in strengthening African scholarship by facilitating access to specialized international archives. Scholars will be able to investigate original materials, develop new interpretations, and strengthen their research outputs. Treat the figures and dates here as estimates and confirm current-cycle details on the official website.
What's covered
- Travel expenses — While not explicitly stated, visiting fellowships of this nature typically cover round-trip airfare from the scholar's home country to Oxford (est.).
- Accommodation — The fellowship is expected to provide support for accommodation in Oxford for the duration of the visit (est.).
- Living allowance — A stipend to cover daily living expenses in Oxford is usually included in fully funded fellowships, estimated at ~GBP 2,000 per month (est.).
- Visa costs — Costs associated with obtaining a UK visa for the fellowship period are often reimbursed (est.).
- Research access — Full access to the Special Collections and other resources of the Bodleian Libraries and University of Oxford.
How to apply
Prospective applicants for the African Studies Visiting Fellowship should carefully follow the official application guidelines provided by the University of Oxford. The process involves preparing a detailed research proposal and submitting all required documents before the specified deadline.
- Review Official Information — Access and thoroughly read the official fellowship announcement and application instructions on the University of Oxford or Bodleian Libraries website.
- Prepare Research Proposal — Develop a concise research proposal clearly outlining your project, its relevance to African history, and how it will benefit from the Bodleian Libraries' Special Collections.
- Gather Supporting Documents — Collect all necessary supporting materials, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of university affiliation.
- Complete Online Application — Fill out the application form online, ensuring all sections are accurately completed and all required documents are uploaded.
- Submit Application — Submit your complete application well in advance of the deadline to avoid any technical issues.
Eligibility
Nationality/AffiliationMust be a scholar affiliated with a university in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Research FocusResearch project must focus on the history of Africa and significantly benefit from access to Bodleian Libraries' Special Collections.
Academic StandingPrimarily aimed at academics and researchers, suggesting a postgraduate or postdoctoral level of expertise (est.).
Research AlignmentProposed work must align with the fellowship's focus on regional history research through Oxford's Special Collections.
Candidates should thoroughly review the official fellowship announcement for all specific requirements and supporting documents for the 2027-28 cycle. The fellowship prioritizes individuals whose research can be genuinely enhanced by on-site access to Oxford's unique historical archives.
Eligible countries
All countries in Sub-Saharan Africa
Deadlines
2027-2028 Fellowship2026-11-27
Selection
The selection process for the African Studies Visiting Fellowship focuses on the academic merit of the applicant's research project and its alignment with the resources available at the Bodleian Libraries. Candidates whose proposed work demonstrates a clear need for access to Oxford's Special Collections in African history will be prioritized. The quality of the research proposal, academic background, and potential for scholarly contribution are key factors in determining successful applicants.
Verified sources
- Fully Funded African Studies Visiting Fellowship at Oxford 2027-28globalsouthopportunities.comannouncement
- Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxfordbodleian.ox.ac.ukofficial
About the provider
The Bodleian Libraries, part of the University of Oxford, comprise a group of 28 libraries that serve the world-renowned university. Founded in 1602, the Bodleian Libraries hold over 13 million printed items and provide extensive resources for academic research across numerous fields.
Frequently asked questions
Answers below are best-effort estimates from the most recent application cycle. Values marked ~ or (est.) may shift year-to-year — confirm specifics on the official scholarship page.
What is the African Studies Visiting Fellowship?
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It is a fully funded research opportunity at the University of Oxford for scholars from Sub-Saharan Africa, enabling them to conduct research on African history using the Bodleian Libraries' Special Collections.
What does the fellowship cover?
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While specific financial details are not listed, visiting fellowships typically cover expenses such as travel to Oxford, accommodation, and a living stipend during the fellowship period (est.).
What is the value of the award?
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The fellowship is described as 'fully funded,' implying comprehensive coverage of essential expenses. An estimated living stipend could be around ~GBP 2,000 per month (est.), in addition to travel and accommodation.
Who is eligible to apply?
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Scholars affiliated with a university in Sub-Saharan Africa who have a research project focusing on African history and benefiting from Oxford's Special Collections are eligible.
Which countries are eligible?
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All countries within Sub-Saharan Africa are eligible for this fellowship, provided the applicant is affiliated with a university in one of these countries.
Which study levels does this fellowship support?
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This fellowship supports academic researchers and scholars, typically at a postgraduate or postdoctoral level, rather than undergraduate or master's students (est.).
What is the application deadline for the next cycle?
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The application deadline for the 2027-2028 African Studies Visiting Fellowship is 27 November 2026.
How do I apply for this fellowship?
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Applicants must review the official fellowship announcement and application instructions, then prepare and submit all requested materials online before the deadline.
What documents are required for the application?
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Typically required documents include a CV, a detailed research proposal, proof of university affiliation, and letters of recommendation. Academic transcripts may also be requested (est.).
How are fellows selected?
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Selection is based on the academic merit of the research project, its alignment with the Bodleian Libraries' resources, and the potential for the scholar's contribution to African history research.
What is the duration of the fellowship and can it be renewed?
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The fellowship is for a specific period during 2027-2028. It is typically a short-term visiting position and is generally not renewable (est.).
Where can I confirm the latest details and apply?
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You should confirm all current details, eligibility, and application procedures on the official Bodleian Libraries or University of Oxford website for the African Studies Visiting Fellowship.