2025 WASMF West African Research Association Fellowship

Are you a curious mind with big dreams of making an impact through research? Then the West African Scholar Mobility Fellowship (WASMF) is perfect for you! Designed for young West African scholars, this fellowship supports those who want to dive deeper into their studies, prepare a doctoral research proposal, or conduct groundbreaking doctoral research. Let’s break it down and see how this program can help you achieve your academic goals.

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What is the WASMF West African Research Association Fellowship?

The WASMF Program, created by the West African Research Association (WARA), is a unique research fellowship that funds aspiring researchers. This fellowship helps scholars spend 2-3 months in West Africa during the summer, focusing on their doctoral research or proposal development.

With a grant of $4,000, this program is all about helping scholars explore ideas, gather data, and connect with the research community in West Africa. Plus, it’s part of WARA’s mission to support academic exchange and collaboration across the Atlantic.

Why Should You Apply?

Here are some great reasons to consider applying for this scholarship:

• Boost Your Research: This fellowship gives you the financial backing to focus on your academic work without distractions.

• Expand Your Network: You’ll get to meet and collaborate with other scholars, researchers, and institutions in West Africa.

• Advance Your Career: A fellowship like this adds credibility and value to your academic journey.

• Experience West Africa: Whether it’s gathering local insights or connecting with cultural perspectives, this experience is unmatched.

• Be Part of Something Bigger: You’ll contribute to the goals of WARA, which aims to enhance education, research, and understanding in the region.

What Subjects Are Covered?

The scholarship is open to the following programs at the participating universities:

• All courses 

Benefits of the 2025 WASMF West African Research Association Fellowship

The 2025 WASMF West African Research Association Fellowship offers several benefits to eligible students:

• Generous Funding: You’ll receive $4,000 to cover expenses like travel, accommodation, and research materials.

• Focused Time for Research: The program provides the perfect environment to concentrate on your doctoral work.

• Access to Resources: You’ll have opportunities to work with institutions, libraries, and communities that enrich your research.

• Skill Development: Learn practical research techniques, build confidence, and sharpen your academic abilities.

• Global Recognition: Being a WASMF fellow enhances your credibility and opens doors for future opportunities.

Who Can Apply?

This scholarship is intended for fellowship students who fall into the following categories:

• Citizenship: You must be a citizen of a West African country.
• Graduate Enrollment: You should be enrolled in a graduate program at a U.S. institution of higher education.
• Research Focus: Your proposed research should align with WARA’s mission to promote knowledge and understanding of West Africa.

Required Documents: below is the list of the needed documents for the scholarship:

• Abstract: A short summary of your research idea (50-80 words).
• Proposal: A detailed explanation of your research goals and methodology (6 pages, double-spaced).
• Resume or CV: Highlighting your academic and professional experience.
• Budget: A breakdown of estimated costs, including travel, housing, food, and other expenses.
• Graduate Transcripts: Scanned copies of your official transcripts.
• Bibliography: References and sources relevant to your research.
• Reference Letters: Two signed letters from academic or professional referees.
• Statement of Contribution: A clear explanation of how your research aligns with WARA’s mission and how it impacts your field of study.

How to Apply for 2025 WASMF West African Research Association Fellowship

Interested in joining the 2025 WASMF West African Research Association Fellowship? Here is a straightforward guide to help you apply: 

• Visit the WARA Fellowship Application Portal on Cognito Forms.

• Carefully fill out the application form and upload all the required documents.

• Double-check that all your details and attachments are correct.

• Submit your application before the deadline.

Application Deadline(s)

The application deadline is February 23, 2025.

Conclusion

The WARA West African Scholar Mobility Fellowship is more than just funding—it’s a chance to explore, grow, and contribute to knowledge in meaningful ways. With $4,000 in support and access to resources in West Africa, this program empowers you to take your research to the next level.

So, what are you waiting for? Visit the 2025 WASMF West African Research Association Fellowship page via the ‘HOW TO APPLY’ link above.