Fulbright South African Research Scholar Program (SARSP) 2026–2027: Exclusive Research Opportunities In The United States -

About the Fulbright South African Research Scholar Program (SARSP)

The Fulbright South African Research Scholar Program (SARSP) provides an exceptional opportunity for South African academics and research professionals to undertake advanced research at leading universities and research institutions in the United States. This fellowship supports three- to nine-month research stays, helping participants refine their scholarship, strengthen institutional programs in South Africa, and establish long-term partnerships with U.S. counterparts.

The program promotes mutual academic exchange and capacity building, empowering scholars to develop projects that contribute to their fields while enhancing teaching and research infrastructure back home.

Eligible Fields

The SARSP welcomes applications from all academic disciplines, with one key restriction:

Clinical medical research involving patient contact is not eligible.

This flexibility allows scholars in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, education, and other fields to apply.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

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Academic Qualification: Hold a doctorate or terminal degree by the application deadline.
Teaching Experience: Have at least three years of university-level teaching experience.
Research Record: Demonstrate significant scholarly research and publications.
Nationality: Be a South African citizen or permanent resident with at least five years of residency.
Exclusions:
- South Africans with dual U.S. citizenship are not eligible.
- The program does not support doctoral dissertation research, immediate postdoctoral research, or general professional travel.
Language Proficiency: Must have strong English skills to carry out research and engage in academic collaboration.
Health Requirement: Applicants must be in good health; successful candidates will submit medical documentation during the award process.
Prior Experience: Preference is given to candidates with limited or no previous U.S. research experience and no prior Fulbright Scholar grant.

Selection Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on:

Quality and clarity of the research proposal (methodology must be accessible to a general academic review panel)
Scholarly achievements and academic potential
Contribution to home institution development upon return
Ability to foster academic and cultural exchange between South Africa and the U.S.
Institutional balance: Avoiding overrepresentation from a single institution or region

Eligible Countries

This program is exclusively open to South African citizens or permanent residents. Applicants with dual U.S. citizenship or permanent residency in the U.S. are not eligible.

Documents Required

Applicants must submit the following through the Fulbright online application portal:

Research proposal with a clear methodology and expected outcomes
Three confidential letters of reference submitted directly by referees (emailed or posted references will not be accepted)
Letter of Invitation from a U.S. host institution (highly recommended but not mandatory)
Proof of English proficiency, if requested
Medical clearance documentation (for successful applicants at a later stage)

Benefits of the Fulbright South African Research Scholar Program (SARSP)

Selected scholars receive a comprehensive grant package, including:

Monthly stipend adjusted to the cost of living at the research location
Round-trip airfare and baggage allowance
Professional allowance to cover books, conferences, and seminars
Settling-in allowance to ease relocation costs
Primary medical insurance during the fellowship tenure
Coverage of visa application fees
In some cases, limited laboratory fees may be covered if funding permits

How to Apply

Access the Application Portal: Submit all materials online via the Fulbright SARSP application system.
Prepare a Strong Proposal: Ensure your research plan is clear, feasible, and relevant to your field.
Secure References: Arrange for three referees to upload confidential letters directly through the system.
Obtain (Optional) U.S. Host Invitation: A letter from your prospective U.S. institution is strongly recommended to strengthen your application.
Submit Before Deadline: Applications close October 5, 2025.

Note: Applicants are advised not to request affiliation with their alma mater in the U.S. to encourage diverse institutional partnerships. For candidates unfamiliar with U.S. universities, the Fulbright team can help identify suitable hosts.

Final Thoughts

The Fulbright South African Research Scholar Program (SARSP) is more than a research opportunity—it is a platform for building global academic bridges. Scholars gain access to world-class facilities, expand their professional networks, and contribute to South Africa’s academic growth upon return.

By enabling scholars to engage in high-impact research, this program continues to advance scientific innovation, educational development, and cultural understanding between South Africa and the United States.

Application Deadline: October 5, 2025
Research Start Dates: Between August 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027 (must conclude by December 31, 2027)