The DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme 2026-27 offers a transformative opportunity for ambitious students and researchers from Sub-Saharan Africa to pursue their Master’s and PhD degrees in development-related fields. Hosted by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), this fully funded scholarship to strengthen African universities, promote sustainable development, and build future leaders aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Successful candidates will study either in their home country (In-Country) or in another Sub-Saharan African nation (In-Region), supported with tuition, living stipend, research funds, travel allowances, and insurance.

This initiative supports scholars in fields such as engineering, life sciences, education, energy, public health, and social sciences, building academic networks that drive Africa’s progress.

About DAAD

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is one of the world’s largest funding organizations supporting international academic cooperation. DAAD promotes excellence in higher education and research by supporting talented scholars worldwide. With a strong presence in Africa, DAAD fosters partnerships between African and German institutions, enhancing the capacity of universities and research centers across the continent.

DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship 2026-27 Overview

Category	Details
Name	DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme 2026–27
Host Organization	German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
Degree Levels	Master’s and PhD
Eligible Region	Sub-Saharan Africa
Eligible Applicants	Graduates and postgraduates from Sub-Saharan Africa
Fields Covered	Development-related and SDG-oriented fields
Scholarship Type	Fully Funded
Application Deadline	27 November 2025
Host Countries	Sub-Saharan African nations (In-Country or In-Region options)

Scholarship Benefits

The DAAD In-Country/In-Region Programme provides full financial support to help students focus on their academic growth and research.

For Master’s Students

• Full coverage of tuition fees
• Annual study and research allowance of 460 EUR
• One-time thesis publication support of 400 EUR
• Monthly stipend for living expenses:

1. In-Country: 400 EUR
2. In-Region: 500 EUR

• Travel allowance for In-Region students (round trip)
• Health insurance (In-Region students only)

For PhD Students

• Full coverage of tuition fees
• Annual study and research allowance of 920 EUR
• One-time thesis publication support of 800 EUR
• Monthly stipend for living expenses:

1. In-Country: 500 EUR
2. In-Region: 600 EUR

• Travel allowance for In-Region students (round trip)
• Health insurance (In-Region students only)
• Optional short-term research stay in Germany (3–6 months)

Duration of Funding

• Master’s Degree: Up to 2 years
• PhD Degree: Up to 3 years

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following eligibility conditions:

1. Citizenship: Must be a Sub-Saharan African citizen.
2. Education Background:
   • For Master’s: Bachelor’s degree with good academic standing.
   • For PhD: Master’s degree in a relevant field.
3. Field of Study: Must apply for a programme listed under the development-related or SDG-focused areas in participating institutions.
4. Location of Study:
   • In-Country: Study in your home country.
   • In-Region: Study in another Sub-Saharan African nation.
5. Gender and Equity Focus: Female candidates and applicants from less privileged regions or groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
6. Commitment: Must demonstrate dedication to contribute to sustainable development and higher education capacity in Africa.

Application Process

Follow these steps carefully to submit a successful application:

1. Check the available programmes via the official Degree Programmes List.
2. Confirm eligibility according to your country, academic background, and level (Master’s or PhD).
3. Register for info sessions to understand the programme details:
   • 15 October 2025 (11 am – 12:30 pm GMT) – Programme overview
   • 29 October 2025 (2 pm – 3:30 pm EAT) – Application portal demo
   • 12 November 2025 (11 am – 12:30 pm GMT) – Portal walkthrough
   Register here
4. Create your profile and apply through the DAAD Portal.
5. Upload required documents, including:
   • Academic transcripts and certificates
   • CV and motivation letter
   • Recommendation letters
   • Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
6. Submit your application before 27 November 2025.

Comparison of DAAD In-Country/In-Region vs Similar Scholarships

Feature	DAAD In-Country/In-Region (2026–27)	AfDB Japan Africa Scholarship	Mandela Rhodes Scholarship
Funding	Fully funded	Fully funded	Fully funded
Eligible Region	Sub-Saharan Africa	African countries	Africa
Fields Covered	Development-related, SDG-focused	STEM, Development, Policy	Leadership, Humanities
Host Locations	African Universities	AfDB Partner Institutions	South Africa
Monthly Stipend	400–600 EUR	Variable	Full tuition + allowance
Duration	2–3 years	1–2 years	1–2 years
Additional Support	Research stay in Germany	Internships with AfDB	Leadership training

FAQs About DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship 2026-27

1. Who can apply for the DAAD In-Country/In-Region Programme 2026–27?
   Students from Sub-Saharan Africa with a Bachelor’s (for Master’s) or Master’s (for PhD) degree are eligible to apply.
2. Can I study outside Africa under this programme?
   No, this scholarship supports study within Sub-Saharan Africa — either in your home country or another African country.
3. What are the main benefits of the scholarship?
   Full tuition, stipends, travel allowance, research grants, and health insurance for In-Region students.
4. Are female applicants encouraged to apply?
   Yes, DAAD strongly encourages women and candidates from underprivileged regions to apply.
5. What is the deadline for applications?
   The final deadline is 27 November 2025.
6. Is prior admission required before applying?
   Yes, you must apply for an eligible programme listed in the DAAD overview.
7. How long does funding last?
   Two years for Master’s and up to three years for PhD programmes.
8. Is a research stay in Germany included?
   Yes, selected PhD students can undertake a 3–6 month research stay in Germany.
9. Which expenses are not covered?
   Personal expenses beyond the stipend amount are not covered.
10. How do I join the info sessions?
    Register for upcoming sessions using the official link.

The DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship 2026–27 is your chance to transform your academic career while contributing to Africa’s sustainable development. Review the programme list, prepare your documents, and apply before 27 November 2025 to secure your spot. APPLY NOW.

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