The African Research Academies for Women (ARA-W) is now accepting applications for its Undergraduate Research Program (URP) 2025. This prestigious summer initiative is exclusively designed for female students in STEM disciplines who are currently attending universities in Ghana. The program aims to support the professional and academic development of outstanding female undergraduate students by immersing them in intensive research under the guidance of faculty mentors.
If you are a motivated female student in a STEM field looking to gain hands-on research experience, this is a remarkable opportunity to build your research skills, contribute to scientific knowledge, and join a network of driven young women across Africa.
Eligibility Criteria
Only applicants who meet all of the following requirements will be considered:
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Gender: Female only
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Country: Must be studying at a recognized university in Ghana
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Field of Study: Must be majoring in a STEM discipline (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics)
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Level of Study: All levels may apply, but sophomores (Level 200) and juniors (Level 300) are preferred
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Academic Standing: Must submit current cumulative GPA or CWA (Level 100 students without GPA may enter “0.00”)
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Commitment: Must be available for the full duration of the 2-month summer program
Program Details
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Program Duration: 2 months during the summer (Exact dates TBA)
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Location: Various universities across Ghana
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Format: In-person, full-time research under the supervision of a faculty member
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Stipend: ARA-W will provide a stipend to cover living costs during the program
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Research Topics: Determined by participants and their chosen faculty mentors
Participant Responsibilities:
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Dedicate significant time to research for 2 months
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Participate in a final research symposium to present findings
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Submit a written report and data analysis to ARA-W coordinators
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Complete an experience survey post-program
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Attend weekly meetings with a faculty mentor or Student Advisor
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Join all sessions geared towards women empowerment and leadership
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Serve as an ARA-W alumna and ambassador after the program to mentor future participants
Application Process
Applicants must complete the online application form and submit supporting documents. Required steps include:
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Fill out basic information: Name, contact, email, etc.
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Educational details: Institution, year, GPA, coursework, prior research experience
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Upload documents:
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Resume (PDF or Word, max. 10MB)
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Personal statement (max. 500 words) outlining:
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Your STEM interests
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Future career goals
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Motivation for applying
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Preferred research areas: Select your top 3 fields
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Recommendation Letter:
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University holidays/breaks: Must be disclosed
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Agree to Honor Code and Student Contract
Note: All submitted information must be accurate. Misrepresentation can result in disqualification.
Important Dates
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Application Deadline: April 20th, 2025 at 11:59PM GMT
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Acceptance Notification: Decisions will be emailed after the application deadline
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For Questions:
Why You Should Apply
This is more than just a research program—it’s a platform for transformation. By participating in URP 2025, you will:
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Receive personalized mentorship in your chosen field
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Be empowered through leadership training and STEM exposure
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Join an elite network of ARA-W Ambassadors across Africa
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Contribute to the mission of closing the gender gap in STEM research
Don’t miss this opportunity to become part of a pioneering movement to elevate women in science and research. Apply today and take a bold step toward your future in STEM!
Your STEM journey begins now. Be part of the change. Apply to the ARA-W URP 2025 today.