The DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme supports the development of strong, internationally oriented higher education systems in Sub-Saharan Africa. It equips graduates with the skills needed to contribute to sustainable development across the continent.
Funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the programme offers scholarships for development-related Master’s (and in many cases PhD) studies at selected high-quality universities and research institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa. Recipients study either in their home country (In-Country scholarships) or in another Sub-Saharan African country (In-Region scholarships).
This opportunity is ideal for graduates who plan to build careers in teaching and/or research at higher education institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa. Female applicants and candidates from less privileged regions or groups are particularly encouraged to apply.
Key Benefits of the DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships
The scholarship provides comprehensive funding for the regular duration of the programme (generally up to two years for Master’s degrees). Coverage typically includes:
- Monthly scholarship allowance (amounts vary by programme; often around €600 or as specified in individual calls)
- Study and research allowance
- Thesis publishing costs (printing allowance)
- Tuition fees
For In-Region scholarship holders only:
- Travel allowance
- Health insurance
Exact amounts and additional benefits are detailed in the specific call for applications for each degree programme. The funding helps remove financial barriers so scholars can focus on academic excellence and future contributions to Africa.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships, applicants must meet these criteria:
- Be a graduate or postgraduate from a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Hold a first academic degree (Bachelor’s) if applying for a Master’s programme.
- Plan to pursue studies in a development-related field at a participating institution.
- Intend to return to or contribute through a career in teaching and/or research at a higher education institution in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Apply for In-Country scholarships (study in home country or country of residence permit) or In-Region scholarships (study in another Sub-Saharan African country).
Note: Specific programmes may have additional requirements, such as minimum grades or relevant work experience. Always check the individual call for applications.
Available Programmes and Fields of Study
Scholarships support selected development-related Master’s programmes at top African institutions. Current open examples include:
- Master of Science in Physics at Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Nigeria
- Master of Philosophy in Urban Studies – Southern Urbanism at the University of Cape Town (UCT), South Africa
- Master of Science in Mathematics at the University of Pretoria (UP), South Africa
Many more programmes across disciplines such as natural sciences, engineering, agricultural sciences, public health, social sciences, and governance are available or will open in various countries. Further calls for additional institutions and fields are expected in autumn 2026.
How to Apply for the DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships – Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these clear steps to submit a strong application:
- Visit the official DAAD scholarship database: Go to the programme page → Here.
- Review available programmes: Select your desired country, region, or specific degree programme. Carefully read the full call for applications (PDF links are provided on the page) to confirm eligibility, deadlines, and requirements.
- Check the application deadline: The main portal deadline for many programmes is 29 April 2026. Some individual calls have earlier deadlines (e.g., November 2025 for certain 2026 intakes). Always verify the exact deadline in the specific programme call.
- Register on the DAAD Portal: Create an account or log in at the DAAD application portal (use a desktop computer for best compatibility, as mobile functionality is limited).
- Complete your application: Fill in your personal details, academic history, and motivation. Upload all required documents in PDF format. Documents usually include:
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Motivation letter or research proposal (if required)
- Proof of language proficiency (if applicable)
- Letters of recommendation
- Any additional documents specified in the call
- Submit your application: Ensure everything is complete before the deadline. Applications are submitted only via the DAAD portal – submissions by other means will not be considered.
- Apply for admission at the host university: In many cases, you must also apply separately for admission to the chosen programme at the host institution. Follow their specific admission process and deadlines.