Borel Global Fellows Master’s Scholarships 2025/2026 At Iowa State University For African Students

The Borel Global Fellows Master’s Scholarships 2025/2026 at Iowa State University: Are you passionate about solving food security challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa? Do you aspire to contribute to groundbreaking research in agricultural sciences while pursuing a graduate degree? The Borel Global Fellows Master’s Scholarships 2025/2026 at Iowa State University provide an exceptional opportunity for talented African students to gain advanced knowledge and skills to address critical agricultural challenges.

With a commitment to fostering scientific leadership and innovation, this scholarship program equips its recipients to drive sustainable agricultural development and improve the livelihoods of communities across Africa.

About the Borel Global Fellows Master’s Scholarships

Launched in 2018 through the generous support of Iowa State University alumni Jim Borel (’78 Agricultural Business) and Marcia Borel (’78 Family Environment), the Borel Global Fellows Program focuses on advancing agricultural and life sciences education for students from Sub-Saharan Africa. The program reflects the Borels’ shared vision of eradicating food insecurity and enhancing the well-being of smallholder farmers in Africa.

Administered by the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at Iowa State University, the scholarship aims to train a new generation of African scientists. These scholars will gain the expertise needed to address food and nutrition insecurity, increase agricultural productivity, and promote sustainable practices. The program emphasizes practical solutions and innovative research to foster resilient farming systems and sustainable food systems in Sub-Saharan Africa.

By supporting graduate education for students with a strong commitment to their communities, the Borel Global Fellows Program seeks to empower individuals to become knowledge leaders who live and work in Africa after completing their studies.

Eligible Fields

Recognizing Africa’s pressing agricultural and environmental challenges, the program is centered on critical disciplines that directly contribute to sustainable food security and environmental stewardship. For 2025/2026, the program prioritizes research in the following fields:

Plant Breeding and Genetics: Enhancing crop resilience, yield, and adaptability to meet the needs of smallholder farmers.
Agricultural Economics: Developing strategies for improving market access, value chains, and financial sustainability in agriculture.

Soil Science: Addressing soil fertility, erosion, and land management to optimize agricultural productivity.
Microbiology: Investigating microbial processes and innovations for improved crop and livestock health.
Wildlife Ecology: Balancing agricultural development with biodiversity conservation.

Entomology: Controlling pests and promoting pollinators to ensure food security and ecosystem health.

Projects within these fields are particularly encouraged if they focus on improving the productivity and sustainability of smallholder farms—a vital component of food security in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Borel Global Fellows Master’s Scholarships, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Admission to Iowa State University: Applicants must be admitted into a graduate program within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS).
African Citizenship: Only citizens of Sub-Saharan African countries, particularly Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Uganda, are eligible to apply.
Commitment to Food Security: Candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in contributing to food security in Sub-Saharan Africa through their graduate studies and subsequent careers.

Research in Sub-Saharan Africa: Scholars are expected to conduct the majority of their graduate research in Sub-Saharan Africa, addressing real-world challenges within their chosen field of study.
Post-Study Intentions: Applicants must express a clear intention to live and work in Sub-Saharan Africa upon completing their graduate studies, using their expertise to drive meaningful change.

Faculty members at Iowa State University’s CALS are required to submit applications on behalf of their graduate students.

Documents Required

A complete application package for the Borel Global Fellows Program includes:

Cover Letter from the Major Professor:

The letter should outline the professor’s commitment to securing the remaining required funding for the student, which typically covers tuition, fees, and research costs.

It should also highlight the professor’s support for facilitating the student’s research in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Curriculum Vitae (CV) of the Student:

A comprehensive resume showcasing the student’s academic background, research experience, and relevant accomplishments.

Goal Statement:

A personal statement from the student explaining their academic and career aspirations, their passion for solving food security issues in Africa, and how their graduate studies align with these goals.

Completed Application Form:

This form includes the student’s personal details, research interests, and other pertinent information.

Applications should be submitted to Dr. David Acker, Associate Dean for Global Engagement, at dacker@iastate.edu.

Deadline: All applications must be received by January 15, 2025. Late submissions will not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to prepare their materials well in advance.

Scholarship Benefits

The Borel Global Fellows Master’s Scholarships provide robust financial support to ensure scholars can focus on their studies and research. Key benefits include:

Generous Funding:

Scholars receive up to $25,000 per year to support their academic journey. This funding can be used for graduate stipends, research expenses, or a combination of both.

Funding is available for a maximum of 30 months for Master’s students and 42 months for PhD students.

Travel Support:

Additional funding is available for both students and their advisors to travel between Africa and Iowa State University for research purposes.

Comprehensive Coverage:

The funding package is designed to cover accommodation, tuition fees, research costs, and other essential expenses.

Research Opportunities:

Scholars gain the chance to conduct meaningful research in Sub-Saharan Africa, contributing directly to solving local challenges.

Networking and Mentorship:

Students work closely with leading faculty at Iowa State University, gaining mentorship and access to global networks in agricultural sciences.

The Borel Global Fellows Program goes beyond funding—it is a platform for cultivating future leaders in agricultural sciences who are deeply committed to driving sustainable change in Sub-Saharan Africa. By joining this program, you will:

Develop advanced skills in your field of study while working on projects that have a direct impact on food security and rural livelihoods.
Engage in collaborative research with faculty and peers, building a strong professional network.

Contribute to addressing some of Africa’s most pressing challenges, such as low agricultural productivity, soil degradation, and pest management.
Gain the tools and knowledge needed to lead innovative initiatives in your home country after graduation.

Final Thoughts

The Borel Global Fellows Master’s Scholarships are a remarkable opportunity for aspiring scientists and changemakers in Sub-Saharan Africa. By supporting graduate education and fostering research in critical areas, this program empowers scholars to create lasting impacts in their communities and beyond.

If you are passionate about agricultural innovation, committed to improving food security, and eager to make a difference, don’t miss this chance to apply. Prepare your application materials and submit them by January 15, 2025, to take the first step toward a transformative academic and professional journey.

How To Apply

To complete your application for the Borel Global Fellows Master’s Scholarships, ensure that you have prepared the required documents thoroughly and in alignment with the program’s guidelines.

All application materials should be submitted via email to Dr. David Acker, Associate Dean for Global Engagement, at dacker@iastate.edu.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Good luck!