Africa Student Fund

The online application process includes:

• Personal Statement
  • Your personal statement should address the following:
    • How has your background such as personal history, professional experience, academic and leadership experience, etc. shaped you, and how has it informed why you are applying to this award?
    • How does your proposed experience connect to your future goals?
  • Format:
    • maximum one page single-spaced, Times New Roman 12-pt font
• Statement of Grant Purpose
  • Your Statement of Grant Purpose should address the following:
    • What is the purpose of your travel?
    • How have your previous academic, leadership and/or professional experiences prepared you for this opportunity?
    • What deliverables do you intend to produce as a result of this opportunity? (e.g. capstone project, published research paper, portfolio, conference presentation)
    • If you are part of a study abroad program, what are your plans for civic engagement and/or community impact outside of the classroom experience? Why do you want to gain a better understanding of the peoples and cultures in your host country? (Note: Simply participating in a pre-arranged study abroad program is not competitive enough for funding)
    • If you are participating in a Maymester, Julymester, or other faculty-led research, what specific contributions will you make as an individual to the project?
  • Format:
    • maximum one page single-spaced, Times New Roman 12-pt font
• 1-page Resume / C.V. 
• 1 Letter of Recommendation 
  • Letters should be written on official USC letterhead by USC faculty or staff who are either directly involved in your travel experience or can speak to how your trip to Africa will contribute to your future learning. Recommenders should email the letter to Academic Honors and Fellowships at ahfstaff@usc.edu by the deadline.
• Verification Documents OR Affiliation Letter
  • If you are participating in a study abroad program or internship, you must provide official documents verifying your acceptance into the program.
  • If you are conducting an independent research or volunteer service trip, you must submit a letter of affiliation from the individual(s) or organization in the host country. The affiliate(s) should confirm that they will support you during your time abroad (e.g. access to research facilities, lodging, supervision, etc.)

Note: If you are applying for a project you are attending as a group, each member needs to fill out their own application for funding. Funding is provided to individuals, not groups.

Apply by Sunday, March 10, 2024 at 11:59PM (PST)