1. GENERAL INFORMATION
Q: What is the African STARS Fellowship Programme?
A: The African STARS Fellowship Programme is a training initiative led by the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch University and the Institut Pasteur de Dakar (IPD) in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. This Programme aims to build African expertise in genomics, diagnostics, and vaccine design while expanding employment opportunities for young scientists in Africa.
Q: Who is eligible to apply for the fellowship?
A: Applicants must be African citizens and/or resident in Africa, aged 35 years or younger at the start of the fellowship, with a background in genomics, diagnostics, vaccine design, economics, or biotechnology. They should hold at least a Bachelor’s degree, but an MSc or PhD may be advantageous for other short term programmes such as the YPP and ATT.
Q: Who is funding the training?
A: The fellowships for this programme are supported by the Mastercard Foundation.
2. APPLICATION PROCESS FOR MSC DEGREE
Q: How do I apply?
A: You must complete two separate applications:
- MSc Fellowship application
Q: How do I apply for the fellowship?
A: Applicants must complete the official online application form and submit all required documents (CV and recommendation letter). No e-mailed or hard copy applications will be considered.
- University application for admission at Stellenbosch University (SU)
Important: Admission to SU is a separate process and is required to finalize the fellowship.
Q: What is the application deadline?
A: The deadline for applications is at the end of the day on 26 June 2025 (00h00 GMT). Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Q: What documents must I submit?
A: All documents below are required for an application to be complete (in word or PDF):
- Completed application form
- Updated CV (use the provided template)
- Academic transcripts and qualification certificates
- Reference Letter (addressed to: African STARS Selection Committee)
- Article summary
- Motivational letter
- Proof of identity (e.g., passport or national ID)
Q: I’m outside South Africa. Do I need SAQA certification?
A: Not initially. If your university is accredited, SAQA certification isn’t required for the application. However, Stellenbosch University may request it later.
Q: Will the outcome of successful scholarship applicants be communicated before the MSc application closing date?
A: No. The scholarship and university admission timelines are independent. You must apply to both on time.
Q: What about those graduating in August this year? Can they apply?
A: Yes, but you will need to submit interim results or an official letter confirming your qualification.
Q: Is there room for students with a microbiology background and limited programming experience?
A: Yes. While programming is an advantage, it is not a requirement. Enthusiasm and willingness to learn are important.
Q: Can students in their final year of a Bachelor’s degree in Bioinformatics apply?
A: If the degree is at NQF level 8 and you can provide proof of interim results, then yes.
Q: I am still await the honours results, can I apply?
A: Yes, but you would need to provide some proof of interim results.
Q: I am a final year Doctor of medical laboratory sciences student. I would be done with my course work in June, 2025. Please am I eligible…?
A: Yes, but you would need to provide some proof of interim results at the level of NQF level 8 or above.
Q: What about those who graduate in August this year?
A: Would need to provide some proof of interim results.
Q: I’m now awaiting my graduation. Bsc in medical laboratory science. Am I eligible to apply?
A: If this is NQF level 8, and you are able to provide some proof of interim results, then yes.
Q: I don’t have my Honours certificate at the moment but I have the academic transcript, will my application be considered?
A: You can ask your institution for a letter that confirms you have been awarded the degree even if you don’t have the certificate.
3. MSc PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
Q: What is the duration of the MSc?
A: It is a full-time, 2-year research-based Master’s programme.
Q: Do I need to propose my own project?
A: No. You will be assigned to a project based on existing datasets and research needs. You don’t need to pitch your own project.
Q: Do I need to secure a supervisor?
A: No, should you be selected for the fellowship- we will allocate you a supervisor.
Q: What to do if you have difficulties attaching files to the google form?
A: Should you experience difficulties in uploading attachments, please try one of the solutions suggested in this blog” and the link for the blog is: https://www.exabytes.sg/blog/how-to-fix-google-forms-file-upload-failed/.
Q: To whom should the letter of recommendation be addressed?
A: Please address the letter of recommendation to the African STARS Fellowship Programme Selection Committee.
Q: Is there an application fee required?
A: There is no fee associated with the application for the Fellowship.
Q: Can I apply if I have dual citizenship?
A: Candidates with dual citizenship can apply. However, preference will be given to candidates who are born in and / or resident in Africa and have a strong commitment to remain in Africa.
4. SELECTION & NOTIFICATION
Q: How will I know if I’ve been accepted?
A: Shortlisted applicants will be contacted via email within two months after the application deadline. Only successful applicants will be notified.
Q: What happens if I’m selected for the scholarship but not accepted at SU?
A: You must be accepted into the MSc programme at Stellenbosch University to receive the scholarship. Scholarship offers are conditional on university admission.
5. FOREIGN QUALIFICATION EVALUATION
Q: Why do I need to have my foreign qualifications evaluated for the MBA and MSc fellowships?
A: South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) evaluation is required to ensure that your foreign qualifications are recognised in South Africa for employment, further studies, or professional registration.
Q: Who needs to apply for SAQA evaluation?
A: Only candidates accepted for the MBA and/or MSc degree programmes at Stellenbosch University will need to apply for SAQA evaluation.
Q: How long does the SAQA evaluation process take?
A: The process typically takes 4-6 weeks, but it can vary depending on the complexity of the qualification and the completeness of your application.
Q: How much does it cost to apply for SAQA evaluation?
A: The fee varies depending on the type of evaluation. As of 2025, the cost is approximately R668 for a standard evaluation of a tertiary record. Please consult the SAQA website for current fees https://www.saqa.org.za/services/evaluation-of-foreign-qualifications/.
Q: What documents are required for SAQA evaluation?
A: You typically need:
- Certified copies of your qualifications (certificates, diplomas, degrees)
- Academic transcripts.
- A certified copy of your ID or passport.
- A completed application form.
- Proof of payment for the evaluation fee.
Q: Can I apply for SAQA evaluation if I am not in South Africa?
A: Yes, you can apply from abroad. SAQA accepts online applications, and you can upload certified copies of your documents.
Q: What happens if my qualifications are not recognised by SAQA?
A: SAQA will inform you if your qualification does not meet South African standards. You may need to provide additional documentation or pursue further studies to meet the requirements.
Q: Do I need to apply for SAQA if I am applying to the ATT or YPP Fellowship?
A: No, you do not need to apply for SAQA if you are applying to the Advanced Translational Training (ATT) or Young Professionals Program (YPP) fellowships.
6. FUNDING AND SUPPORT
Q: Is the scholarship need-based or merit-based?
A: It is a merit-based scholarship. Financial need is not a primary criterion.
Q: What does the scholarship cover?
A: Tuition. Accommodation, Stipend/living allowance, health insurance, travel, research expenses.
Q: Can I fund myself if not selected?
A: Yes, you can apply for the MSc with SU.
Q: Does the fellowship cover travel and accommodation costs?
A: Yes, selected fellows will receive full funding, which includes travel (i.e., return economy ticket from your country of residence in Africa), accommodation, and a stipend to support living expenses during the training period.
Q: Is there any financial support for visa applications?
A: Yes, the programme provides support for visa applications for selected fellows. A letter of invitation will be provided to facilitate the visa application. Fellows will be responsible for applying for and paying for the visa in their home country. Expenses for the visa application will be reimbursed, provided valid receipts are provided. Please note that only the cost of the application will be covered. Travel expenses to reach to the visa offices will not be reimbursed.
Q: Will I need health insurance during the Fellowship and is it also covered?
A: All Fellows will be provided with medical insurance for the duration of the Fellowship and will be assisted in applying for the insurance cover before their Fellowship commences.
Q: Does the Fellowship include childcare support?
A: No family care support will be provided for the ATT and YPP Fellowships. However, for the longer-term Fellowships (MBA and MSc), some support may be provided for childcare. Requests for childcare support will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Q: Do I need to bring my own laptop or equipment?
A: It is advisable to bring your own laptop. The long-term Fellowships (>12 months) will be provided with a laptop, if needed.
Q: Can I extend my fellowship if I need more time to complete my MBA or MSc project?
A: The projects should be completed within the fellowship. Under exceptional circumstances, an extension may be possible but would also need to comply with Stellenbosch University rules and regulations for degree training.
7. POST-FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Q: Will I receive a certificate upon completion of the fellowship?
A: Yes, all fellows who successfully complete the ATT and YPP programmes will receive a certificate of completion from CERI and IPD. Fellows who successfully complete the MSc or MBA will be awarded degrees from Stellenbosch University.
Q: What happens after the fellowship?
A: Fellows will join the African STARS Alumni Network, gain access to career development opportunities, and receive ongoing mentorship and support in their professional journey. They are encouraged to contribute to scientific leadership and epidemic response efforts in their home countries.
7. OTHER QUESTIONS
Q: Can I apply if I am currently enrolled in a PhD or Master’s programme?
A: Yes, but you must provide evidence of your ability to complete the fellowship without interfering with your academic commitments.
Q: Can I apply if I am currently employed?
A: Yes, but this is an in-person training programme and trainees will be expected to commit to the full training period. If employed, you will be required to provide evidence that your employer is supportive of you participating in the fellowship without it interfering with your work commitments.
Q: Can I apply if I have previously participated in a Genomics Africa Fellowship or similar programme?
A: Yes, but priority will be given to new applicants who meet the eligibility criteria.
Q: Can I apply to multiple fellowship programs at the same time?
A: It is possible to apply for more than one fellowship at the same time. It is the Fellow’s responsibility to ensure that they comply with conditions of any Fellowships they receive.
Q: Can I work or study while participating in the Fellowship?
A: It may be possible to participate in some of the Fellowship types (e.g., ATT, YPP, MSc, MBA) if you are studying or working. However, all of the fellowships will require some in-person attendance. Hence, it will be the Fellow’s responsibility to obtain the required permission from their University / Employer to be away from their studies or employment to participate in the fellowship. It will not be possible to study or work while completing the MSc degree as it is an in-person, full time degree.
Q: Where will I stay during the Fellowship?
A: Suitable accommodation will be arranged for the duration of the Fellowship.
Q: Can I bring my family with me?
A: It may be possible to bring your family members with you. However, the Fellow would be responsible for all travel, visa and accommodation costs for their family.
Q: Can people with disabilities participate?
A: Yes. Candidates will be asked to indicate if they have a disability on the application. Any information collected on the disability is only for planning purposes to ensure we are equipped to accommodate the specific circumstances.
Q: Do I need to return to my home country after the Fellowship?
A: Yes. Candidates with a strong commitment to remain in Africa following their fellowship will be prioritised.
Q: Who do I contact for further inquiries?
A: For any additional questions, please email starsfellows@sun.ac.za.
Q: If I apply for one of the four programs and am successful, will I still be eligible to apply for the other programs? For example, if I am selected for the ATT program, will I still be eligible to apply for the MBA?
A: Yes, you can still apply for the other programmes. However, some of the programmes will run concurrently and it will not be possible to participate in two programmes at the same time.
