The African Studies Centre Leiden (ASCL), in partnership with academic publisher Brill, has officially opened applications for the 2026 Africa Thesis Award. The prestigious annual award recognizes outstanding master’s theses focused on Africa and offers emerging scholars an opportunity to gain international recognition, publication, and financial support.
For more than two decades, the Africa Thesis Award has celebrated exceptional academic research on African issues while promoting African Studies globally. The initiative continues to encourage high-quality scholarship that contributes to a deeper understanding of the continent and its diaspora.
About the Africa Thesis Award
The Africa Thesis Award is designed to reward innovative and impactful master’s research conducted within the social sciences and humanities. The winning thesis receives a cash prize of €500 and is published in the respected Afrika-Studiecentrum Series, providing the recipient with significant academic visibility.
The award attracts submissions from students across Africa and the Netherlands whose research addresses critical issues affecting African societies, cultures, economies, histories, and political systems.
Award Benefits
The successful candidate will receive:
- A cash prize of €500
- Publication of the thesis in the Afrika-Studiecentrum Series
- International academic recognition
- Opportunity to present research during the official award ceremony
- Enhanced visibility among scholars, researchers, and policymakers interested in African Studies
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the 2026 Africa Thesis Award, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Academic Institution and Completion Period
- The thesis must have been completed between 31 August 2025 and 31 August 2026.
- The degree must have been awarded by:
- A university in the Netherlands, or
- A university located in an African country.
Research Focus
The thesis must:
- Be based on empirical research.
- Focus on an African country, region, or the African diaspora.
- Fall within the Social Sciences or Humanities disciplines.
Eligible fields include, but are not limited to:
- Geography
- Political Science
- Anthropology
- Development Studies
- Economics
- History
- Religious Studies
- Literature
Academic Performance
Applicants must have achieved:
- A minimum grade of 8/10 under the Dutch grading system; or
- An equivalent grade of A or higher from non-Dutch universities.
Language Requirements
The thesis must be written in one of the following languages:
- English
- French
- Dutch
Candidates submitting theses written in Dutch must also provide a five-page summary in English.
Selection Criteria
The jury will assess submissions based on several key factors:
- Originality and innovation of the research
- Strength of the theoretical framework
- Quality and appropriateness of the methodology
- Scientific contribution and academic relevance
- Societal impact and practical significance
In addition, special consideration will be given to:
- Writing quality
- Readability
- Ability to communicate research findings to a broader audience
The organizers emphasize that well-written and engaging theses capable of reaching audiences beyond academia will have a competitive advantage.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a complete application package containing the following documents:
- A digital PDF copy of the thesis
- A summary of the thesis (maximum 300 words)
- A signed recommendation letter from the thesis supervisor
The supervisor’s recommendation letter should include:
- Assessment of the thesis quality
- Final grade awarded
- Institutional information confirming eligibility
For theses written in Dutch, applicants must additionally submit:
- A five-page English-language summary
Only complete applications will be considered for evaluation.
How to Apply
All application materials should be submitted electronically via email.
Applicants must send their complete submission package to:
The organizers encourage candidates to ensure all required documentation is included before submission to avoid disqualification.
Application Deadline
The deadline for applications is:
30 September 2026
Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Award Ceremony
The winner of the 2026 Africa Thesis Award will be recognized during a special award ceremony hosted by the African Studies Centre Leiden.
As part of the event, the recipient will have the opportunity to:
- Present their research findings
- Engage with academics and researchers
- Showcase their work to a wider audience interested in African Studies
Continuing a Tradition of Excellence in African Studies
Since its establishment more than twenty years ago, the Africa Thesis Award has become one of the most respected recognitions for emerging scholars conducting research on Africa. By rewarding exceptional master’s theses and supporting publication opportunities, the award contributes to the growth of African Studies scholarship while encouraging young researchers to produce impactful and policy-relevant work.
Students who have recently completed outstanding master’s research on Africa are encouraged to submit their applications and compete for this prestigious international award.
