Umoja International Student Fellowship

Study Abroad for Everyone, rooted in the African Diaspora

Quality education, incredible destinations, and culturally grounded learning communities. Cut the cost, not the experience.

Apply Now How it works Oct 15 to Dec 15, 2025
 

By the Voices of Our Fellows

Fellows describe ISFP as transformative. They return with deeper identity awareness, intercultural competence, and a commitment to serve their communities. These reflections summarize recurring themes from the most recent cohort.

Transformative learning

Life-changing and eye-opening. I realized how I am connected to Africa and the strength that comes from that connection.

It did not meet my expectations, it over-exceeded them.

Students highlighted growth in patience, self-awareness, and purpose clarity that carried into their academics and leadership.

Identity and cultural connection

I learned about Pan-Africanism and decolonization in Ghana.

I met others in the diaspora and gained new understanding of our shared history, culture, and expression.

Experiences strengthened belonging while expanding perspectives on the African world and its contributions.

Leadership and community impact

I plan to attend Umoja meetings and events to talk about my experience and answer questions for future students.

I plan to step into leadership to advocate for the program and encourage more students to go.

Fellows return prepared to mentor, present, and organize on their campuses.

Resilience and growth

I had to distance myself for my mental health and peace.

The biggest challenge was adjusting my attitude and managing money, but I learned to be patient and take care of my health.

Students practiced self-care, communication, and adaptability, skills they now apply across academic and personal contexts.

The Sankofa spirit

Guided by Sankofa, fellows bring their learning home through vlogs, blogs, campus talks, and peer coaching.

  • I am compiling my journal reflections and vlogs to inspire future applicants.
  • I will present at orientations and workshops to expand access to global learning.

How it works

Explore options

Browse partner programs that align with your goals and major. Prioritize destinations in the African Diaspora when available.

See partner institutions

Apply to ISFP

Submit your application during the window below. Include your essay, transcript, recommendation, and supplemental documents.

Apply Now

Prepare and go

If selected, complete predeparture steps, finalize course registration with the host, and launch your global learning experience.

Review requirements

Key program components

  • Financial support for eligible credit-bearing partner programs
  • Cultural immersion and community engagement in host locations
  • Professional development for leadership and career readiness
  • Network building across Umoja colleges and universities

Eligibility

  • Minimum 2.25 GPA
  • Community college Umoja student with at least 12 units completed
  • Declared certificate, associate, or transferable degree major
  • Demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and community engagement
  • Credit-bearing course at an institution with an Umoja Program

Application essay prompts

  • Goals for studying abroad and how the program will help you reach them
  • Why an African Diaspora focus matters for your learning and growth
  • How fellowship support will help you persist and complete your program

Two to three pages, up to fifteen hundred words.

What to submit

  • Unofficial academic transcript
  • Recommendation from Umoja Coordinator, Staff, or Faculty
  • Financial aid award letter, resume, brief bio, and professional photo
  • Agreement to weekly vlogs, website features, and presentations upon return

Umoja Sankofa Service Project

  • Post-study abroad survey
  • Ten short videos while abroad capturing your experience
  • Presentation at an approved venue and at a campus event

A deposit is made when the grant is awarded and refunded upon completion of the service project.

Study anywhere in the African Diaspora

Ghana landscapeGhana
Egypt pyramidsEgypt
Spain cityscapeSpain
France architectureFrance
United Kingdom skylineUnited Kingdom
Application Window October 15 to December 15, 2025 Apply Now

Study abroad FAQs

How can I afford to study abroad

Combine Umoja fellowship funds with financial aid, scholarships, and affordable destinations. Many partner programs include housing and on-site support to reduce surprise costs.

Will studying abroad delay graduation

Programs are credit-bearing and selected to support timely degree or transfer. Meet with a counselor to map courses to your plan.

Is it safe to study abroad

Partner institutions monitor conditions, provide orientations, and maintain on-site support. Register travel as advised and follow host guidance.

How do I choose the right program

Align destination and courses with your major and goals, and prioritize African Diaspora locations when available. Consider language, cost, and term length.