Fulbright Scholar Award

All Disciplines

Gambia, The

Application Deadline
closed
Award Code
25004-GM
Activity Type
Teaching
Teaching includes classroom teaching, as well as giving guest lectures, workshops, and seminars, and engaging in other related activities. Classroom teaching is typically at the undergraduate and graduate level, and courses may be designed by the scholar or prescribed by the host institution and may be taught or co-taught by the scholar. The teaching load varies by award, as well as the host institution. Scholars may also consult on building research capacity, advise graduate students, and assist with thesis advising.
Teaching/Research
A combination of teaching and research as described above. Refer to the award description for any specifications on percentages of time that should be devoted to teaching vs research.
Degree Requirements
Ph.D. (or other terminal degree) not required
Career Profile
Artists
Awards are open to individuals who have more than seven years of experience in an artistic profession.
Early Career Academics
Awards are open to those who have been working in the capacity of a teacher or scholar for no more than seven years.
Mid-Career Academics
Awards are open to those who have been working in the capacity of a teacher or scholar for more than seven, and less than 13, years.
Professionals
Awards are open to individuals who have more than seven years of experience in a particular profession.
Senior Academics
Awards are open to those who have been working in the capacity of a teacher or scholar for more than 13 years.

Number of recipients

Up To
2
Award Start Period
October 2026 - February 2027
Award Length
6 months
Flex Option
No
Multi-Country/Area Award
No
Disciplines
Projects are sought in all disciplines
Scholars selected for this award can choose to
Advise and/or mentor students
Assist in faculty, curriculum, and/or program development
Conduct a research project designated by the host institution
Conduct a research project of the applicant’s choosing
Teach graduate and/or undergraduate courses designated by the host institution
Award Activity

Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in a wide range of disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, natural and physical sciences, and business and communications. Supervise student theses and collaborate with faculty on research and program development. Conduct research in area of specialization, in addition to teaching responsibilities. 

Locations
Location Selection: Applicant may propose an appropriate host
Locations Detail

The University of The Gambia has demonstrated particular enthusiasm for hosting a U.S. Scholar and offers both Bachelor's and Master's degree programs. Please reach out to the Embassy staff (see Contact Information) for direction in contacting the university. 

Award Length and Period

The academic year begins in October. Therefore the grant start date is flexible and can be arranged in accordance with the academic calendar at the host institution, within the stated period of October 2025- February 2026.

Areas of Interest

Applications are sought in all disciplines. Applications in agriculture, biology, business administration, communication, engineering, environmental sciences, human resource management, information technology, journalism, law, medicine, public health, social work, and teacher education are encouraged.

All applicants must meet the Program eligibility requirements (click to review the requirements).

Citizenship/Residency Requirement
Applicants residing in the award country at the time of application or thereafter are not eligible to apply for this award.
Permanent residents of the award country are not eligible to apply for this award.
Invitation Requirement
A letter of invitation is optional.
Language Proficiency Requirements
None, English is sufficient
Additional Qualification Information

All teaching will be in English. 

Additional Comments

Scholars with two or more years of university teaching experience are preferred. Prior experience in developing countries is strongly preferred.

You may be asked to participate in an interview as part of the in-country selection process.

Researcher and Professional Project Monthly Allowances
$5270
$6670
Teaching or Teaching/Research Award Monthly Allowances
$6040
$7660
Estimated Travel and Relocation Allowance for Grantee

Round-trip, economy-class international travel arranged by travel agent designated by IIE, for scholar and up to two accompanying dependents. A $2,050 allowance will be provided to cover the costs associated with relocation and excess baggage.

Estimated Book and Research Allowance

$1,000 books and educational materials allowance; if possible, educational materials should be donated to the host institution (or other entity) upon grantee's departure. (For Teaching and Teaching/Research awards) 

Do you offer additional dependent benefits
Yes

Additional living and housing allowance is provided for grantees with one accompanying dependent or two or more accompanying dependents. These amounts range from $200/month to $500/month. 

In addition, round-trip, economy class travel is provided for up to two dependents. 

Dependent education allowance of up to $12,500 per child or $25,000 per family for accompanying dependents in grades K-12 is reimbursed for a full academic year, upon submission of receipts, and depending on funding availability. Amount may be adjusted for shorter grant periods. Reimbursement is based on actual cost of tuition and fees only.

Dependents must accompany the grantee for at least 80% of the period abroad and a minimum of one semester in order to qualify for additional dependent benefits. Dependent benefits are not provided to Flex grantees.

Special Award Benefits

When university housing is provided to Fulbright Scholars, grantees will receive a supplemental housing allowance in lieu of a full housing allowance for refurbishments, utilities, and other miscellaneous expenses that arise. The full housing allowance will not be provided to grantees if they elect to decline on-campus or university housing.

Gambia, The

What is life like for Fulbrighters in your country?

Life for Fulbrighters in The Gambia offers a unique and enriching experience. The country has undergone a significant transformation from autocracy to democracy, and this transition has positioned The Gambia as a beacon of democracy in West Africa.

The partnership between The Gambia and the United States has flourished, with the United States providing substantial support through initiatives such as the Millennium Challenge compact and various grants focused on health, agriculture, and education. In addition to these sectors, technology and tourism are also emerging as promising areas of growth.

The historical ties between the United States and The Gambia further contribute to the Fulbright experience. Kunta Kinteh, the protagonist of the iconic American saga Roots, hailed from The Gambia, and a significant number of Gambians and their descendants now reside in the United States. Many members of the diaspora return to The Gambia to reconnect with their roots and heritage.

The University of The Gambia serves as the country's primary university, and the School of Business and Public Administration is one of the largest schools on campus. Fulbright scholars can engage with the vibrant academic community and contribute to the intellectual and educational development of the country.

The U.S. Embassy in Banjul provides valuable support to Fulbrighters, offering guidance on visa processes, housing arrangements, and security considerations. For scholars with dependent children in grades K-8, there are several local schools available to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of education.

Overall, Fulbrighters in The Gambia can expect a dynamic and rewarding experience, with opportunities to contribute to the country's ongoing development and immerse themselves in its rich culture and history.