Who Can Apply: Dr. Joseph A. Towles was a respected Black social anthropologist and a leading expert on African cultures. Born in Virginia, he earned his doctorate from Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda. This scholarship honors his legacy by supporting students who want to deepen their academic and cultural understanding by completing a study abroad program in Africa during Spring 2027.
- Be a full-time enrolled undergraduate student at any accredited UNCF member institution as a sophomore, junior or senior including 5th years
- Be a graduate student or faculty member at a UNCF member institution who is studying traditional or contemporary African societies
- Be a U.S citizen, international or DACA student
- Have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Have a demonstrated, unmet financial need as verified by their college or university
- Be approved by your institution to participate in a Spring 2027 accredited study abroad program in Africa
- Ensure your chosen African country is approved for safety and travel
- Provide proof of acceptance to approved African Institution and area or course of study e.g Study abroad acceptance letter
Submission: You’ll need to complete the online application and submit the following:
- Two essays; the prompts are as follows:
- Please provide a 350-500 word essay detailing what you will gain during your African Study Abroad experience.
- Please write at least 350-500 word personal essay about yourself, your achievements, and your goals.
- Current unofficial transcript
- Current Resume(1-2 pages)
- An Acceptance Letterfor your perspective program that you have been admitted to
- Study Abroad Program Acceptance Lettermust be for a program in spring 2027.
- One academic reference who can confirm your institution’s approval for your study abroad semester
- One general reference letterfrom a non-relative
Deadline: October 16, 2026
Amount: $10,000
Learn More: https://opportunities.uncf.org/s/program-landing-page?id=a2iVJ00000isvklYAA
