The Harvard University South Africa Fellowship Program (HSAFP) is a distinguished initiative established to address the educational disparities imposed by the apartheid system in South Africa. Launched in 1979 by Harvard President Derek Bok, the program aims to provide mid-career South African professionals, who were educationally disadvantaged by past laws and resource allocations, with the opportunity to pursue advanced studies at Harvard University.

Dates:

• Application Deadline: April 15, 2025
• Fellowship Commencement: Academic Year 2026-2027

Location: Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA

Description:

The HSAFP provides a fully funded year of study in one of Harvard’s professional schools or the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. The program was established to address the needs of South Africans who were denied access to advanced education by the apartheid system. It is intended for mid-career professionals educationally disadvantaged by past laws and resource allocations in South Africa.

Eligibility:

To be eligible for the HSAFP, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens.
• Professional Experience: Candidates should be mid-career professionals who have demonstrated considerable skill in their chosen fields and have shown leadership potential.
• Educational Disadvantage: The program is intended for individuals who were educationally disadvantaged by past laws and resource allocations in South Africa.
• Academic Credentials: Applicants must possess a four-year bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should follow these steps to apply for the fellowship:

1. Application Submission: Complete and submit the online application form available on the Harvard University Center for African Studies website.
2. Supporting Documents: Applicants must provide the following supporting documents:
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV): An updated CV detailing academic achievements, professional experience, and extracurricular activities.
   • Personal Statement: A personal statement outlining the applicant’s professional background, career aspirations, and how the fellowship aligns with their goals.
   • Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
   • Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic and professional work.
3. Interview: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview as part of the selection process.
4. Admission to Harvard: Fellowship recipients must apply and gain admission to the Harvard school of their choice. Assistance will be provided by program administrators during this process.

Important Dates:

• Application Deadline: April 15, 2025
• Selection Process: May – July 2025
• Program Start Date: August 2026

Link to the Fellowship:

For more detailed information about the Harvard University South Africa Fellowship Program and the application process, please visit the official fellowship page on the Harvard University Center for African Studies website HERE