The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) has opened applications for its 2027 In-Country/In-Region Master’s Scholarship Programme, offering financial support to eligible students pursuing development-related postgraduate studies at selected universities across Sub-Saharan Africa.
The programme aims to strengthen higher education systems across the region by supporting graduates who intend to build careers in teaching and research at higher education institutions.
Interested applicants must submit their applications by November 12, 2026.
The scholarship supports eligible candidates studying in their home countries or other participating African countries, depending on the available programme and the applicant’s residency status.
What the DAAD Scholarship Covers
The DAAD scholarship provides financial support to successful applicants for the regular duration of their Master’s programmes, generally up to two years.
The funding package generally includes:
- Monthly scholarship payments.
- Study and research allowances.
- Thesis publication costs.
- Tuition fees.
Students receiving In-Region scholarships may also qualify for travel allowances and health insurance.
Applicants should confirm the specific benefits and conditions attached to their chosen programme before applying.
Who Can Apply?
The programme targets graduates and postgraduate candidates from Sub-Saharan Africa who want to pursue development-related Master’s degrees at participating institutions.
Applicants must hold a first academic degree to qualify for a Master’s scholarship and meet the admission and eligibility requirements of their selected programme.
The scholarship offers two study options:
- In-Country scholarships: For candidates studying in their home country or in a country where they hold a residence permit.
- In-Region scholarships: For candidates studying in another participating Sub-Saharan African country where they do not hold a residence permit.
DAAD particularly encourages applications from women, recognised refugees and candidates from marginalised regions or groups.
Available Courses and Participating Universities
The 2027 scholarship programme lists selected development-related Master’s courses at universities and institutions across West and Central Africa, Eastern Africa and Southern Africa.
West and Central Africa
Burkina Faso
Institut International d’Ingénierie de l’Eau et de l’Environnement (2iE)
- Master of Science in Water and Environmental Engineering.
Ghana
West African Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI), University of Ghana
- Master of Philosophy in Seed Science and Technology.
West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), University of Ghana
- Master of Philosophy in Molecular Cell Biology of Infectious Diseases.
University for Development Studies (UDS)
- Master of Philosophy in Agricultural Economics.
Eastern Africa
Ethiopia
Jimma University
- Master in Environmental Health.
Kenya
Chuka University
- Master of Science in Plant Breeding.
Moi University
- Master of Education in Research.
Rwanda
University of Rwanda
- Master of Science in Electrical Power Systems.
Tanzania
Ardhi University
- Master of Science in Geomatics.
Uganda
Busitema University
- Master of Science in Climate Change and Disaster Management.
Southern Africa
Malawi
Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS)
- Master of Science in Environmental Health.
Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR)
- Master of Science in Aquaculture and Fisheries Science.
- Master of Science in Irrigation Engineering.
Prospective applicants should verify the availability of their preferred courses and the specific requirements of each institution through the official DAAD scholarship listing.
Scholarship Duration
DAAD generally provides funding for the standard duration of the selected Master’s programme, which can last up to two years.
The scholarship focuses on development-related disciplines and seeks to equip graduates with the knowledge and research skills needed to contribute to sustainable development across Sub-Saharan Africa.
How to Apply for the DAAD Scholarship
Interested candidates should follow these steps:
1. Review the available programmes
Check the participating universities and eligible courses to identify a programme that matches your academic background and career goals.
2. Confirm your eligibility
Review the requirements for your chosen institution and determine whether you qualify for an In-Country or In-Region scholarship.
3. Prepare your application documents
Gather the academic and supporting documents required by the relevant programme. Requirements may differ between participating institutions.
4. Submit your application
Follow the application instructions provided for your selected scholarship and institution. Ensure you complete all required steps before the deadline.
5. Check the official deadline and requirements
Submit your application by November 12, 2026, and verify any programme-specific deadlines or additional instructions on the official DAAD website.
Application Deadline
November 12, 2026.
Applicants should begin preparing their documents early to avoid missing the deadline.
Where to Apply
Visit the official DAAD scholarship webpage to review the scholarship details, participating institutions and application requirements.
TIPZ tip: Do not apply blindly. First, identify an eligible course, check the university’s admission requirements and confirm exactly how to submit your scholarship application. Pay particular attention to whether your chosen programme offers an In-Country or In-Region scholarship and which benefits apply to that category.
