Kenya Open Study/Research Award

The Fulbright U.S. Student Program in Kenya aims to strengthen educational and cultural relationships between the United States and Kenya. This Open Study/Research Award supports U.S. students and scholars conducting independent research or study projects in Kenya for 6-9 months. Fulbright grantees affiliate with a university department as graduate students for non-credit coursework, or as research associates who may teach in a classroom at the department's discretion. Affiliations with Kenyan government ministries or research institutions are also acceptable. Grants will begin between August 2026 and March 2027, subject to the approval of the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi. The program provides a monthly stipend, international travel benefits, health coverage, and mental health support. Previous Fulbright grantees have had positive experiences in Kenya, with Nairobi being described as cosmopolitan and modern, while other towns are vibrant at a smaller scale. Candidates must be committed to carrying the grant through to completion and should be open to helping bridge working relationships between their host institution and the Embassy. Many Kenyan universities have constituent colleges outside of Nairobi with acute capacity-building needs, and candidates are strongly encouraged to consider affiliations with these colleges wherever possible. The candidate must secure their own affiliation with an appropriate host institution, with affiliation letters strongly recommended at the time of application.