African Oxford Initiative AfOx Visiting Fellowship Program 2025

About the scholarship

The African Oxford Initiative (AfOx) Visiting Fellowship Program is a prestigious opportunity for African researchers to collaborate with the University of Oxford, one of the world’s leading academic institutions. Fully funded, the program covers travel, accommodation, and living expenses for fellows during their stay in Oxford, typically lasting up to six months. It fosters academic exchange, strengthens research networks between African institutions and Oxford, and supports high-impact research addressing critical challenges in Africa, such as health, climate change, and sustainable development. Fellows gain access to Oxford’s world-class libraries, research facilities, and academic community, enabling them to advance their projects, publish in top journals, and build long-term collaborations.

The AfOx program is designed to empower African researchers by providing mentorship, networking opportunities, and professional development workshops. Fellows are hosted by Oxford departments or colleges, working closely with leading scholars in their fields. The initiative also encourages fellows to engage with Oxford’s vibrant interdisciplinary community, including events at the Africa Oxford Initiative hub. By fostering partnerships and knowledge exchange, AfOx aims to amplify African perspectives in global research and support fellows in creating sustainable impact in their home countries. This fellowship is ideal for researchers committed to addressing Africa’s developmental challenges through innovative, evidence-based solutions.

Eligibility

Eligibility for the African Oxford Initiative (AfOx) Visiting Fellowship Program includes the following requirements:

• African Affiliation: Applicants must be researchers based at an African academic or research institution, typically holding a PhD or equivalent research experience.
• Research Proposal: Candidates must submit a clear, high-impact research proposal aligned with AfOx themes, such as health innovation, sustainable development, or technology, and identify a host department or supervisor at Oxford.
• Academic Excellence: Applicants should have a strong academic record, evidenced by publications, conference presentations, or other scholarly achievements.
• Career Stage: Both early-career and established researchers are eligible, with priority given to those demonstrating potential for long-term impact in Africa.
• Nomination or Invitation: Some fellowships require a nomination or invitation from an Oxford department or faculty member, ensuring alignment with Oxford’s research priorities.
• English Proficiency: Proficiency in English is required, typically demonstrated through academic work or standardized tests (e.g., IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL iBT 100).

Applications are submitted through the AfOx online portal, requiring a CV, research proposal, and two recommendation letters. Candidates must secure a letter of support from their Oxford host. Selection is highly competitive, based on academic merit, research quality, and potential to strengthen Africa-Oxford collaborations. Fellows are expected to return to their home institutions post-fellowship to apply their research outcomes.