Applications open for the DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme
Applications are now open for the 2026 DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme, offering fully funded Master’s and PhD opportunities to talented Sub-Saharan African scholars. With a deadline of 27 November 2025, this prestigious initiative supports individuals committed to advancing sustainable development through teaching and research careers at universities across the region. Whether you choose to study in your home country or another Sub-Saharan African nation, the programme provides the financial freedom and academic resources needed to excel.
About the DAAD and Its Commitment to African Higher Education
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the world’s largest funding organisation for international academic exchange, supporting over 100,000 scholars annually across the globe. In Sub-Saharan Africa, DAAD has invested heavily in building resilient, high-quality higher education systems since the 1970s. The In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme, launched over two decades ago, specifically targets capacity-building in universities by training future lecturers and researchers who will remain in the region and drive local innovation. With thousands of alumni now holding senior academic positions, DAAD’s efforts have significantly strengthened research output, curriculum development, and institutional leadership across Africa—contributing directly to the continent’s sustainable development goals in health, agriculture, engineering, governance, and beyond.
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship targets outstanding graduates and postgraduates from Sub-Saharan Africa who:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s applicants) or a Master’s degree (for PhD applicants) with strong academic performance.
- Plan to pursue development-related Master’s or PhD programmes that align with national or regional priorities.
- Intend to build long-term careers in teaching and/or research at higher education institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Two study options are available:
- In-Country: Study at a recognised university in your home country or country of legal residence.
- In-Region: Study in another Sub-Saharan African country (ideal for accessing specialised programmes not available locally).
The programme actively encourages applications from women, candidates from disadvantaged regions, and members of under-represented communities.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
Successful candidates receive comprehensive support tailored to their needs:
Standard benefits (In-Country & In-Region):
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Generous monthly living stipend
- Allowance for study and research materials
- Funding for thesis printing/publication
Additional benefits for In-Region scholars:
- Return travel allowance
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
Master’s scholarships last up to 2 years; PhD awards extend up to 3 years, ensuring ample time to complete high-quality research.
Eligible Fields and Programmes
Only development-relevant disciplines offered at participating universities qualify. Popular areas include:
- Agriculture & Food Security
- Public Health & Medicine
- Engineering & Technology
- Environmental Sciences & Climate Change
- Governance, Law & Economics
- Education & Social Sciences
Nigeria
- Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University Makurdi (formerly Benue State University Makurdi)
Subject fields:
Master: Food Chemistry
PhD: Food Chemistry
A full list of approved programmes and host institutions is available on the official DAAD scholarship database.
Application Deadline & Process
All applications must be submitted online via the DAAD Portal by 27 November 2025. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Required documents typically include:
- Completed online application form
- CV (Europass format)
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Two academic reference letters
- Proof of admission (or application) to an eligible programme
- Research proposal (PhD applicants)
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Beyond financial support, recipients gain:
- Access to world-class supervision and research facilities
- Membership in a vibrant pan-African alumni network
- Enhanced employability in academia and development sectors
- Opportunities to contribute directly to Africa’s knowledge economy
- If you’re a driven Sub-Saharan African scholar ready to shape the continent’s future through teaching and research, the 2026 DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship is your gateway to excellence.
- Closing Date: November 27, 2025
- Apply today and join thousands of alumni transforming African higher education—one classroom and one discovery at a time.
- For full programme details, eligibility criteria, and the online application portal, visit the official DAAD scholarship website.
