Application Deadline: 30 September 2025.
Applications are now open for the 2025 African Studies Centre Leiden Africa Thesis Award. The Africa Thesis Award is an annual initiative by the African Studies Centre Leiden that recognises outstanding master’s theses on African topics. Established more than 20 years ago, the award aims to encourage research and writing on Africa and to promote African Studies worldwide.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible, the thesis must meet the following criteria:
- Completion date and institution: The thesis must have been completed at a university in The Netherlands or at a university in an African country between 31 August 2024 and 31 August 2025.
- The thesis should be based on empirical research within the Social Sciences or Humanities, including (but not limited to) geography, political science, anthropology, development studies, economics, history, religion, and literature.
- The thesis must focus on an African country, region, or its diaspora.
- The thesis must have been graded at least an 8/10 grade following the Dutch grading system or an equivalent grade (A or higher) from non-Dutch universities.
- The thesis must be written in English, French, or Dutch. If submitted in Dutch, a five-page summary in English must be included.
Selection criteria
The jury will evaluate the theses based on the originality of the research, theoretical framework and methodology, and scientific and societal relevance. Special consideration will be given to style and readability, with a well-written and engaging text that appeals to a broader audience considered an asset.
How to apply
A complete submission must include:
- a digital version of the thesis in PDF
- a summary (maximum 300 words)
- a signed letter of recommendation from the student’s supervisor, detailing the thesis’ quality, the awarded grade, and institutional details
For theses written in Dutch, please also include a five-page summary in English.
Only complete applications will be processed. All documents should be submitted via email to [email protected](link sends e-mail).
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the African Studies Centre Leiden Africa Thesis Award
