DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme Sub-Saharan Africa 2026
About this scholarship
DAAD's In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme for Sub-Saharan Africa supports postgraduate study and research at selected African universities, helping students and university staff build regional academic capacity.
The DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme Sub-Saharan Africa is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and administered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). It is designed to strengthen higher education and research capacity in Sub-Saharan Africa by supporting talented graduates and early-career academics to study at selected host institutions within the region.
The programme typically funds Master's and PhD study at participating universities in Sub-Saharan Africa. Depending on the specific call and host institution, scholarships may support applicants to study in their home country (in-country) or in another eligible country in the region (in-region). The scheme especially encourages applications from university staff, public-sector candidates, and women, while aiming to promote development-oriented teaching and research.
Funding generally includes a monthly stipend and may also provide support for tuition fees, study and research costs, travel, and health insurance, depending on the award type and the terms of the host institution's call. Exact benefits can vary by university, degree level, and funding line.
Eligibility usually depends on the specific university call, but applicants are commonly expected to be nationals or permanent residents of an eligible Sub-Saharan African country, to hold the academic qualifications required for admission to the chosen programme, and to demonstrate strong academic performance and a commitment to contributing to higher education or development in the region after graduation.
Applications are generally submitted through the participating host university offering the DAAD-funded place, rather than through a single central application portal for all awards. Because subjects, deadlines, and requirements differ by institution and programme, applicants should carefully check the current DAAD call and the website of the relevant host university before applying.
Eligibility
Who can apply for this scholarship
Eligibility varies by host university and call. Applicants are typically nationals or permanent residents of an eligible Sub-Saharan African country, must meet the admission requirements of the selected Master's or PhD programme, and should show strong academic merit and development-oriented motivation. Some calls give preference to university staff, candidates from least developed or fragile contexts, and women.
Requirements
Documents typically needed to apply
Where you can use this
Open positions accepting DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme Sub-Saharan Africa.