DAAD In-Country/In-Region Masters Scholarship 2026/2027 for Sub-Saharan Africa
Are you a student from Sub-Saharan Africa dreaming of a master’s degree that boosts your career in teaching or research? The DAAD In-Country/In-Region Masters Scholarship Programme 2026/2027 offers a fully funded chance to study close to home. This program targets graduates who want to build stronger universities in their region and support sustainable growth.
Program Overview
The DAAD In-Country/In-Region Masters Scholarship Programme 2026/2027 helps develop top-notch higher education in Sub-Saharan Africa. It funds master’s studies in fields linked to development. Scholars must plan to work as teachers or researchers at universities in Sub-Saharan Africa after graduation.
This initiative splits into two types of scholarships. In-Country awards go to those studying in their home country or where they hold a residence permit. In-Region awards support study in another Sub-Saharan African country, outside their home or permit area. Both paths keep talent in the region to drive local progress.
Who Qualifies?
Applicants need a first academic degree, like a bachelor’s, to apply for a master’s. They must come from Sub-Saharan Africa. The program welcomes graduates and postgraduates ready for master’s-level work.
Women stand out as priority candidates. People from less privileged areas or groups also get special encouragement. This focus helps level the playing field and brings diverse voices into academia.
Check specific rules for each host university, as they may vary by location.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
Funding lasts for the standard length of the master’s program, usually up to two years. Scholars receive a monthly payment to cover living costs. Extra support includes study and research allowances, plus costs to publish a thesis.
Tuition fees get paid directly, easing money worries. This package lets students focus on learning without financial stress.
Supported Master’s Programs
The program backs select development-related degrees at partner universities. Here are key examples:
West and Central Africa – Nigeria
- Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB): Master of Science in Physics. This course builds skills in physics for agricultural and environmental challenges.
Southern Africa – South Africa
- University of Cape Town (UCT): Master of Philosophy in Urban Studies – Southern Urbanism. Students explore city planning tailored to African contexts, tackling housing and infrastructure issues.
- University of Pretoria (UP): Master of Science in Mathematics. The program sharpens math expertise for research and teaching roles in education or industry.
More programs exist across regions. Each has its own call for applications with full details.
Application Process
Start by reviewing the call for applications from your chosen host institution. Procedures differ by region and university. Some require online forms, others need paper submissions or interviews.
Gather these basics: academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, and references. Explain your career goals in teaching or research. Highlight ties to Sub-Saharan Africa.
Submit by the deadline for your program. Late applications do not count.
Key Dates and Tips
The main application deadline is April 29, 2026. But confirm exact dates for your target program, as they can shift.
Apply early to avoid last-minute issues. Contact the host university for questions. Strong applications show clear plans for using the degree back home.
This scholarship opens doors for African scholars to gain skills and give back to their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the DAAD In-Country/In-Region Masters Scholarship?
Graduates from Sub-Saharan Africa with a bachelor’s degree who plan to teach or research at regional universities qualify. Women and people from less privileged groups get priority.
What does the scholarship cover?
It pays tuition fees, gives a monthly stipend for living costs, and includes study allowances, research support, and thesis publication costs for up to two years.
Which master’s programs does it support?
It funds development-related degrees like MSc in Physics at FUNAAB in Nigeria, MPhil in Urban Studies at UCT in South Africa, and MSc in Mathematics at UP in South Africa.
What is the application deadline and process?
The main deadline is April 29, 2026, but check your program’s dates. Submit transcripts, CV, motivation letter, and references through the host university’s process.