Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for the Fulbright Visiting Research Scholar Program aimed at providing grants for South African graduates to enroll in a visiting scholar program at a United States university.
Students are selected through a rigorous application and interview process and receive a high level of support ranging from visa processing and health insurance to a comprehensive pre-departure orientation and re-entry session.
SUMMARY:
- Scholarship Sponsor(s): U.S. Embassy & Consulates in South Africa
- Scholarship Type: Full funding
- Host Institution(s): Universities in USA
- Scholarship Worth: Not specified
- Number of Awards: Several
- Study Level: PhD
- Nationality: South Africans
See Also: Fulbright Scholarship Program 2026/2027 [Fully Funded]
South African Fulbright Foreign Student Program | DETAILS
The SARSP is an opportunity for South African university faculty or research institute professionals to conduct research in their field of expertise at a U.S. academic or research Institution for a period of 3 to 9 months.
A research grant enables the scholar to perform high-level research at a U.S. educational institution, aimed at strengthening academic programmes or curricula at his/her home institution. Applicants need to have a proven track record of productive scholarly research, and publications.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Fulbright South African Research Scholar Program 2026, applicants must meet the following:
- Applicants must have a doctoral degree or equivalent professional/terminal degree in their field. Preference will be given to individuals who have a minimum of 3 years of university teaching experience and a productive scholarly record;
- Be a South African citizen OR a permanent resident with a minimum of 5 years of permanent residency status in South Africa (Please note: S.A. nationals with dual citizenship from the U.S. are not eligible for the programme);
- Applicants may be affiliated with local universities, research institutes, or other institutions that have educational and/or research objectives;
- Applicants must have sufficient proficiency in the English language to carry out the project required. TOEFL exams are not required. English Language Proficiency may be tested by Fulbright Offices;
- Applicants must be in good health. Successful candidates will be asked to submit a Medical History and Examination Report;
- Applicants who were unsuccessful in previous competitions may re-apply. Repeat applicants should revise their proposals, update curriculum vitae, and obtain current letters of reference.
Scholarship Benefits
- Monthly stipend based on the cost of living at the research site;
- Round trip airfare;
- Excess baggage allowance for return travel;
- Professional allowance for books, conferences, and seminars;
- Settling-in allowance;
- Primary medical insurance coverage for the grantee;
- U.S. Visa application fee.
Application Procedures
How-to-Apply: Interested applicants for the Fulbright Visiting Research Scholar Program are to complete an online application by the application deadline.
Required documents:
- A well written research proposal with well explained methodology that can be understood by a general reviewing committee;
- Three confidential letters of reference (submitted directly by referees through the online system);
- Curriculum Vitae;
- Supporting academic documentation.
Application Deadline: August 30, 2026
