# AfroGrad > AfroGrad builds AI for how Africa learns and works. Its first product is Jeli, a curriculum-linked AI tutor for learners of every age and for teams learning new software; it also builds apps and AI systems with universities and organisations. The company is building African tech talent alongside its products. Jeli lives at https://jeli.afrograd.com; the AfroGrad blog publishes field notes on graduate admissions, scholarships and learning. --- Source: https://afrograd.com/ Launching soon # We're building AI for how Africa learns and works. We make our own products, build with universities and organisations, and grow the African talent that will build what comes next. See examplesWork with us Built by African talentLearns · Works In practice ## What that looks like How Africa learns: Jeli, a tutor for learners of every age that follows their curriculum. How Africa works: software and AI training for teams, and solutions we build for you. How Africa learns · Jeli · for learners ### A tutor that follows your curriculum From basic school to university, Jeli works through the syllabus a learner is on: WASSCE maths here, BECE science or a first-year course elsewhere. It asks for their first step, gives a hint when they are stuck and explains once they have tried. How Africa learns · Jeli · grad school ### Grad school applications, start to finish Find schools that fit you, then plan, draft and edit every part of your application with feedback along the way. How Africa works · Jeli for Teams ### Your team, fluent in new software We're building Jeli for Teams: the same tutor, taught your software from your manuals and workflows, so each employee learns by doing real tasks at their own pace. Today we run hands-on software and AI training for your team. How Africa works · Solutions ### We build your solutions for you Bring us the problem. We design, build and test the AI tools and apps that solve it, then hand them over ready to use. For learners ## A clearer path from learning to opportunity Everything a graduate needs in one place, with learning, mentors and jobs all served through Jeli. [01School subjects02AI03Data and software04Career readinessLearning pathsA tutor for school subjects that follows the learner's syllabus (WASSCE, BECE and more), plus structured tracks for AI, data, software and career readiness.](https://jeli.afrograd.com/learning)[Mentor networkProfessionals across the diaspora who understand the African talent journey.](https://jeli.afrograd.com/mentorship)[Jobs and internshipsEarly-career roles, remote work, internships and startup placements.](https://jeli.afrograd.com/jobs)[University bridgeAcademic communities connected with practical industry opportunities.](https://jeli.afrograd.com/universities)[AI career toolsSupport for resumes, statements of purpose, interviews and networking.](https://jeli.afrograd.com/login)[Events and sprintsHackathons, workshops and deadlines that create momentum.](https://jeli.afrograd.com/events) Our products ## What we're building JeliEarly testing An AI tutor for African learners of every age. It follows their curriculum and adapts to what they already know. - Basic school - Secondary school - University and adults [Visit Jeli](https://jeli.afrograd.com/)[Join the testing](mailto:afrograd@gmail.com?subject=Testing%20Jeli%20with%20our%20school) Testing now with schools and learners. Jeli for Teams is next. For organisations ## Work with AfroGrad We work with universities, schools, nonprofits and companies to build AI that holds up in real conditions. We learn the problem first, build something real in weeks, test it with real users, then ship it and train your team. ### Training on your software Hands-on training that gets your staff productive in the software you've adopted, and in using AI at work. Jeli for Teams will make it self-paced. ### Specialised training programmes Deeper programmes built around your field, your tools and your team. ### Solutions built for you We design, build and test the AI tools and apps you need, then hand them over. Join us ## Built by African talent. AfroGrad began in 2024 as a community of African scholars helping each other. Today engineers, designers, researchers and educators build real products here and learn by shipping them. We're a small team and grow carefully. If you want to build AI for Africa, tell us what you'd like to work on. [Careers at AfroGrad](https://afrograd.com/careers)[Join the community](mailto:afrograd@gmail.com?subject=Joining%20the%20AfroGrad%20community) People we work with - Engineers - Product designers - Researchers - Educators Learning blog ## Learning notes for the age of AI. Practical ideas for students, teachers, and the people building better learning across Africa. [Field note · 8 Nov 2025Personalizing Your Approach to Graduate School ApplicationsAfroGrad editorial](https://afrograd.com/blog/personalizing-graduate-school-applications)[Field note · 8 Nov 2025Start here: Selecting a grad programAfroGrad editorial](https://afrograd.com/blog/start-here) Featured 8 Nov 2025 · Learning in public ### How to Prepare for Fall 2025 Scholarships and Admissions A definitive checklist of actions, documents, and outreach strategies to secure funded placements across the US, Canada, and Europe. Recent posts --- Source: https://afrograd.com/careers Careers # Build AI for how Africa learns and works. AfroGrad is a small team of engineers, designers, researchers and educators. We build real products and learn by shipping them. Open roles None right now We grow carefully. When a role opens, it will be listed here first. ## How we work The same way on our own products and on partner projects: small steps, each one tested with the people it is for. - 01Learn the problem firstWe start with the people who have it, not with the technology. - 02Build something real in weeksA working thing people can use beats a long plan nobody can test. - 03Test it, then ship itWe put it in front of real users in real conditions before calling it done. ## People we work with AfroGrad began in 2024 as a community of African scholars helping each other. That is still who we build for. - EngineersBuild Jeli and the apps and AI systems we make with partners. - Product designersDesign for the phone people carry and the data they pay for. - ResearchersWork out what actually helps people learn, and what does not. - EducatorsShape how Jeli teaches, so the learner does the thinking. ## No role yet? Say hello anyway. If you want to build AI for Africa, tell us what you'd like to work on. We read every message. [Email afrograd@gmail.com](mailto:afrograd@gmail.com?subject=Careers%20at%20AfroGrad)[Join the community](mailto:afrograd@gmail.com?subject=Joining%20the%20AfroGrad%20community) Worth including - What you would like to work on - Something you have built, written or taught - Where you are based --- # How to Prepare for Fall 2025 Scholarships and Admissions > A definitive checklist of actions, documents, and outreach strategies to secure funded placements across the US, Canada, and Europe. - By AfroGrad Team, 2025-11-08 - Original: https://afrograd.com/blog/fall-2025-scholarships-and-admissions Are you aiming for Fall 2025 admissions in the USA 🇺🇸, Canada 🇨🇦, Europe, or other regions? The Fall semester is the largest intake for most institutions worldwide, offering more admissions and scholarship opportunities than other semesters. If you’re targeting Fall 2025, now is the time to ensure your application is strong and complete. Here’s a guide to help you gather the necessary documents, take important actions, and optimize your chances for a successful application. ## Key Documents to Prepare A well-rounded application should include these essential documents: - **Transcripts** - **International Passport** - **Structured Academic CV** - **References**: Recommendation letters from professors or mentors - **Statements and Letters**: A Statement of Purpose, Research Statement, Motivation Letter, or Cover Letter - **Achievements and Experience**: Any awards, publications, leadership experience, memberships in professional organizations, and relevant work experience - **Professional Online Profiles**: LinkedIn, ResearchGate, Google Scholar, etc. - **Standardized Test Scores**: GRE, TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, GMAT, etc. While some institutions don’t require these tests, they can be helpful, especially if you have a lower GPA. Consider taking these tests to strengthen your application. Key Steps for Your Application Process Once your documents are prepared, follow these steps to maximize your chances (in no particular order): - **Research Schools and Programs** Explore schools based on location, acceptance rates, the international student ratio, and rankings. - **Send Cold Emails to Professors** Don’t wait for scholarship listings—many MSc and PhD programs in the USA and Canada offer full or partial funding for strong candidates. Reach out directly to professors with a tailored email that highlights your skills and interests in their research area. This can help you stand out and is an effective strategy for getting noticed. - **Apply Early** Many applications open as early as August. Submitting early increases your chances, especially for competitive programs with limited resources. Early applications can also make you eligible for application fee waivers. - **Apply to a Range of Schools** Diversify your applications by including top, mid-tier, and lower-ranked universities. Some lower-ranked schools have strong research programs and may offer more accessible funding options. - **Tailor Each Application** Customize your application materials for each school to make them stand out. Seek feedback from friends or mentors to refine your submissions. - **Follow Up on Applications** If you have questions or need clarity on certain aspects, contact program coordinators or administrative offices. Don’t hesitate to ask for information. - **Adopt the Right Mindset** Confidence, focus, faith, stamina, and passion are all critical to sustaining your motivation throughout the application process. - **Leverage Connections** Connect with current graduate students in your target programs. They can provide valuable insights and tips that may improve your application. ## Additional Resources Social media platforms like Twitter are excellent for scholarship tips and application updates. Follow accounts dedicated to scholarship information for regular insights and tips. Good luck with your application process! Fall 2025 might seem far away, but a proactive approach will help you create a compelling application and increase your chances of success. --- # Personalizing Your Approach to Graduate School Applications > Why boilerplate SOPs fail and how tailoring your unique academic story turns committee doubt into acceptance. - By AfroGrad Team, 2025-11-08 - Original: https://afrograd.com/blog/personalizing-graduate-school-applications Applying to graduate school is a major decision, and with so many options available, it can be overwhelming. However, what’s important is not just where you apply but ensuring that the schools you choose aligns with your personal academic and professional goals. While factors like prestige can sometimes dominate decision-making, here are some key things to consider as you navigate this process. ## Focus on What’s Important to You When considering graduate programs, one of the most crucial steps is identifying what factors matter most to you. Do you have the money to pay application fees? Do you want to write the GRE? Are you looking for a specific type of research environment? Is funding a priority? Do you prefer a particular geographic location? Each person’s criteria are different, and by understanding what matters to you personally, you can tailor your search to find the programs that will fit your needs. ## Don’t Obsess Over the Name—Look at the Curriculum A prestigious name doesn’t always equate to the best fit for your research interests. Study the curriculum and, most importantly, the research areas of the faculty members in the department. Things such as the acceptance rates or graduation rates may not matter depending on the context. Also, name of the program is just a label, but the content, that is, what you’ll be studying and who you’ll be working with is what will shape your graduate school experience. For instance, you can conduct biology research in a chemistry department or work on chemistry projects in a mechanical engineering department and vice versa. It’s common for research to span across disciplines. Don’t box yourself in based on traditional labels; look at the actual research being done in the department and see if it aligns with your interests. **Application Requirements: Follow Them to the Letter** Ensure you meet the application requirements for the programs you’re applying to. Graduate programs often have very specific criteria, and meeting those is essential. If a program requires you to be accepted by a faculty member before admission, make sure to contact faculty in advance, as building these connections is critical to your application’s success. Similarly, if a program mandates official transcript evaluations, submit those promptly. Failure to follow these steps could result in your application being excluded. Attention to detail is key. However, if you do not meet the requirements, it is important not to give up as there is always another school that will fit you and your credentials. **English Proficiency and Other Test Requirements** Some programs, particularly if you’re applying for teaching assistantships, may recommend or require an English proficiency test. Even if it’s not a strict requirement, submitting the test results can boost your application. If the program values this skill for future teaching roles, it’s in your best interest to provide evidence of your proficiency. However, even if you do not have these proficiency test done, you can still demonstrate proficiency in other ways especially if you are from a country where English is the default language of instruction at schools. **Narrowing Down Your Options** There are more than a thousand universities offering graduate programs worldwide. While that number seems huge, if you narrow your choices based on your field of interest, research goals, and other preferences, you may still have hundreds to choose from. This is where identifying your priorities, researching faculty, and understanding application requirements becomes crucial. You want to find the programs that not only align with your career goals but also with your personal preferences. Applying to graduate school requires careful consideration, and by prioritizing what matters most to you, you can focus your energy on finding the right program. From understanding application requirements to focusing on research over program names, keeping these tips in mind will help you through the process and set you up for success. --- # Start here: Selecting a grad program > The decision matrix for picking graduate programs aligned with funding, post-study mobility, and research interests. - By AfroGrad Team, 2025-11-08 - Original: https://afrograd.com/blog/start-here Graduate School. Image from Pexels. Selecting a graduate program is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your academic career. Whether you’re pursuing a master’s degree or a PhD, the program you choose will decide you future research options, mentorship opportunities, and overall graduate experience. With hundreds of universities offering graduate programs, narrowing down to the most personally suitable choice can be overwhelming. Here we have put together a guide to walk you through four key factors to consider when choosing a graduate program. **Research Alignment: Find Your Intellectual Match** One of the most critical aspects of choosing a graduate program is ensuring that the program’s research focus aligns with your interests. This is especially important if you’re pursuing a PhD or a research-based master’s degree, as the bulk of your time will be spent on your research project and ending u working on something you are not really interested in will not only affect your academic growth but your mental health as well. Start by exploring the research areas of the departments you’re interested in. Make an excel sheet of the list of departments and the research areas most compatible with your interests over there. Look beyond the program’s name or prestige and delve into the specific topics that faculty members are working on. For example, you may find cutting-edge biology research happening in a chemistry department, or interdisciplinary work between mechanical engineering and materials science. Make sure the program’s core strengths align with your intellectual passions. ## Action steps you should take include: - Review the faculty profiles on the department’s website. - Look at recent publications, ongoing research projects, and collaborations to see if the topics excite you. - Ask yourself if the program offers flexibility in research direction, especially if you’re someone whose interests may evolve over time or likes to work in a collaborative environment. If the program’s research strengths don’t align with your current or potential interests, it may not be the best fit, regardless of its ranking or reputation. ## Faculty Mentorship: Choose the Right Advisor This can never be overemphasized. The relationship between a graduate student and their advisor can make or break a graduate experience. Having an advisor who is not only an expert in their field but also a supportive and accessible mentor is crucial to your success. When choosing a program, look for faculty members who are not only renowned in their areas of expertise but who are also committed to mentoring students. Academic expertise is essential, but mentorship is equally important. A good mentor will provide guidance, offer constructive feedback, and support your career development beyond just completing the program. To gain insight into a faculty member’s mentorship style, connect with current or former students. They can provide firsthand experiences and share insights into what it’s like to work with that professor. It’s essential to understand whether the faculty member is approachable, accessible, and invested in the success of their students. It is important to note that a lot of highly renowned professors and top universities barely have time for their students so it is important to understand the dynamics of how mentorship works in such professor’s groups. ## Action steps you should take include: - Reach out to current graduate students or alumni to ask about their experiences with faculty members. - Review the faculty member’s track record of supporting students in achieving their career goals (e.g., graduation rates, publications, job placements). - Look for potential advisors who have experience mentoring students with similar research interests and academic backgrounds. **Funding and Resources: Ensuring Financial and Academic Support** Pursuing graduate studies is a long-term commitment, and financial stability is a critical factor to consider. Unlike undergraduate programs, which often offer broad financial aid packages, graduate programs vary widely in terms of the funding they offer. Ensure that you thoroughly investigate the financial packages available to you, including scholarships, teaching assistantships (TAs), research assistantships (RAs), and fellowships. **Teaching assistantships** and **research assistantships** often provide a stipend, tuition remission, and health benefits, making them a vital source of funding for many graduate students. Additionally, some programs offer fellowships that provide funding without the requirement of teaching or assisting with research, which allows you to focus solely on your studies and research. Beyond financial stability, ensure that the program provides adequate resources to support your research. Access to state-of-the-art labs, libraries, research grants, and conference funding are essential for your academic and professional development. ## Action steps you should take include: - Review the program’s website or contact the admissions office to understand the types of funding available. - Inquire about the availability of fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships. - Ask about additional funding for research travel, conferences, or equipment. ## Program Culture and Environment: Find Your Academic Home The program’s culture and environment will be your academic “home” for several years, and feeling comfortable and supported in this space is crucial for your success. Graduate school is a rigorous and often stressful experience, so choosing a program where you feel welcomed and encouraged to grow is vital. Consider the size of the program and the diversity of the student body. Larger programs may offer more resources and a wider variety of research opportunities, while smaller programs may offer more individualized attention and a tighter-knit academic community. Both have their advantages, so think about which environment best suits your learning and working style. Diversity is another essential factor. A program that promotes diversity in its faculty, student body, and research will expose you to a wider range of perspectives and ideas. It’s also important to assess the program’s commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment. Speak with current students to get a sense of the program’s overall atmosphere and whether you’d feel comfortable and motivated in that space. ## Action steps you should take include: - Visit the campus, if possible, to get a feel for the environment. If you are applying to another country, visit the schools website and check out the student life section of the website to have a feel of campus activities and the atmosphere. - Reach out to current students about the program’s culture, workload, and work-life balance. - Research the program’s initiatives to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. ## Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for You It is not just about academic prestige or rankings; it’s more about finding the program that aligns with your research interests, offers strong mentorship, provides financial and academic support, and fosters a welcoming and supportive environment. By carefully considering these factors, you can make a more informed decision that sets you up for success, both during your graduate studies and in your future career. Graduate school is a long and challenging journey, but with the right program, it can be one of the most rewarding and transformative experiences of your academic life. Take your time, do your research, and choose a program that will help you grow, both as a scholar and as an individual.