Language Proficiency in French is required; local languages (e.g., Fon or Yoruba in the south; Bariba, Dendi, or Hausa in the north) may also be needed depending on the area of research.

Grant period 10 months, October through June. Fulbright grants will begin between August 2010 and March 2011, subject to the approval of the U.S. Embassy in Cotonou.

Affiliation It is strongly recommended that applicants identify appropriate host institutions for their projects and that they include affiliation letters with their Fulbright applications. The Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy is willing to assist with this, but candidates should recognize that securing affiliations is ultimately their responsibility.

Research clearance A letter requesting authorization of research should be addressed and sent to the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research along with the affiliation letter. The Public Affairs Section is willing to help with this.

Dependents The basic amount of the Fulbright grant is increased by US$200 per month for grantees with one accompanying dependent and by US$300 per month for two or more accompanying dependents.

Contact Taibatou Osseni, ossenit@state.gov.

Website http://benin.usembassy.gov