The 2026 DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships are now open to students across Africa. This programme supports talented graduates who want to pursue Master’s or PhD studies in strong African universities. It is fully funded and designed to build skilled professionals who can drive development in their home countries.
The scholarship covers full tuition, research support, health insurance, travel expenses (for In-Region candidates), monthly stipends, and academic allowances. It remains one of the most reliable postgraduate funding opportunities for African students.
This guide explains the programme, eligibility, benefits, and how to apply.
Scholarship Summary
Host: German Government (DAAD)
Study Location: Universities within your home country or other African countries
Level: Master’s and PhD
Eligible Countries: All African nations
Benefits: Fully funded | Stipends up to €8,920 per year | Tuition fees | Research allowances | Travel and health insurance
IELTS: Not required
Deadline: November 27, 2025
About the DAAD In-Country/In-Region Programme
This scholarship is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Its main goal is to strengthen African higher-education systems by supporting the training of researchers, lecturers, and professionals.
The programme does the following:
• Builds strong postgraduate training within Africa
• Supports universities with research-focused students
• Helps younger academics grow into future lecturers
• Encourages long-term development within African countries
Depending on your choice, you can study:
• In your home country (In-Country Scholarship)
• In another African country with a strong research programme (In-Region Scholarship)
For many students who cannot afford to travel to Europe, this is a realistic path to quality postgraduate education with full sponsorship.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must:
• Hold a first degree if applying for a Master’s programme
• Hold a Master’s degree if applying for a PhD
• Be from any Sub-Saharan African country
• Intend to study in their home country or another African country
• Apply to an eligible DAAD-supported programme
• Present complete academic and identification documents
Female applicants and candidates from less-privileged regions are strongly encouraged.
Note: South African applicants must apply through NRF.
Scholarship Benefits
Funding covers the standard duration of the programme:
For Master’s Degree (up to 2 years)
For PhD (up to 3 years)
General benefits include:
• Monthly stipend (about €600)
• Research allowance (€920)
• Printing allowance (€800)
• Full tuition fees
Extra benefits for In-Region scholars:
• Travel allowance
• Health insurance
This is enough support to help you focus on your studies without financial pressure.
How to Apply for the 2026 DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships
Follow the steps below:
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Visit the official DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships portal.
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Select your country or region.
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Choose the eligible programme you want to apply for.
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Check that you meet both the DAAD and university requirements.
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Create an account on the DAAD portal.
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Fill in your personal profile.
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Upload all required documents, including academic transcripts, certificates, CV, and recommendation letters.
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Submit your application before the deadline.
It is important to apply early, as some universities require pre-admission.