The Fulbright South African Research Scholar Program (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 programs or curricula at his/her home institution. Applicants need to have a proven track record of productive scholarly research, and publications.

Eligibility Requirements for Fulbright South African Research Scholar Program

• Be a South African citizen OR a permanent resident with a minimum of 5 years of permanent residency status in South Africa
• Scholars from all disciplines and without regard to gender or age. However, proposals for clinical medical research involving patient contact are ineligible under the Fulbright Program.
• Also, applications for doctoral dissertation research, post-doctoral research immediately following completion of a doctorate degree, or general professional travel, are ineligible.
• Preference will be given to candidates who have not previously received a Fulbright scholar grant.
• In addition, preference will be given to candidates who have had no experience or only limited experience in the U.S.
• Applicants must have sufficient proficiency in English.  TOEFL exams are not necessary.  However, the U.S. Embassy reserves the right to administer an English language test, if necessary.
• Applicants must be in good health. Successful candidates need to submit a Medical History and Examination Report.
• Moreover, scholars who were unsuccessful in previous competitions may re-apply.

How to apply

You need to fill out the application and submit it through an online application system.  Submit all supporting documents through the online application system as well.

Include a well-written research proposal with a well-explained methodology that can be understandable for a general reviewing committee.

Include three confidential letters of reference. Your referees must upload these through the online application system.

A Letter of Invitation from a U.S. host institution is a plus but it is not a requirement.

The Fulbright Program will honor institutional affiliation preferences as far as possible. Applicants unfamiliar with U.S. institutions may request that the Fulbright Program identify a suitable host institution.

Applicants should note that laboratory fees are not part of the standard benefits package for the Fulbright SARSP.

Research Grant Coverage

• Monthly stipend based on the cost of living at the research site.
• Monthly dependent allowance for accompanying dependents.
• Also, a round trip airfare for the grantee.
• Round trip airfare for one dependent accompanying the grantee for a minimum period of 80% on an eight- to nine-month grant.
• Excess baggage allowance for return travel.
• Professional allowance for books, conferences, as well as seminars.
• Settling-in allowance.
• In addition, primary medical insurance coverage for the grantee.