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The WARA Pre-doctoral Fellowship supports U.S. graduate students conducting 2 to 3 months of research in West Africa during the summer. The fellowship is designed for two purposes: preparing a doctoral research proposal or carrying out research related to the completion of another terminal degree program such as MFA or MPH. The program aims to enhance transatlantic exchange and collaboration between U.S. scholars and West African research communities. This competition is open to U.S. citizens currently enrolled in graduate programs at U.S. institutions of higher education. Priority is given to applicants at the pre-dissertation stage who will be returning to their institution to complete coursework and exams before beginning their fieldwork. Applicants are advised to be conversant in an African language spoken where they will conduct research. The fellowship provides round trip travel to a West African country (not to exceed $2,500) and a stipend of up to $3,500. The West African Research Center (WARC) in Dakar, Senegal may assist fellows with academic contacts, affiliations, and recommendations for lodging in the country chosen by the fellow. The program is funded by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. State Department through a grant from the Council of American Overseas Research Centers.