2026 DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships: Fully Funded Master’s & PhD for African Students
Are you an African student dreaming of advanced studies without the financial burden? The 2026 DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships offer a fully funded path for Master’s and PhD programs right in Africa. These scholarships support talented individuals from Sub-Saharan Africa to build skills that aid their countries’ growth.
Scholarship Overview
The DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships come from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). They receive funding from Germany’s Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The goal is to train skilled professionals and future university teachers for sustainable development in Africa.
This program targets Sub-Saharan African countries. Students study at strong universities in their home country (In-Country) or nearby African nations (In-Region). Some host institutions form networks for top-quality education. It covers Master’s degrees, which last up to two years, and PhD programs, up to three years.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships, meet these key points:
- Hold a first degree if applying for a Master’s, or a Master’s if applying for a PhD.
- Come from Sub-Saharan Africa and plan to study in your home country or another Sub-Saharan African country.
- Women and people from less privileged areas or groups get special encouragement.
Note that South African applicants handle their In-Country scholarships through the National Research Foundation (NRF). No IELTS test is needed, which makes it easier for many.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
These scholarships provide full support for the standard program length. Here’s what recipients get:
- Tuition fees paid directly.
- Monthly stipend of up to €600.
- Study and research allowance up to €920.
- Printing allowance of €800.
For In-Region scholars only:
- Travel allowance.
- Health insurance.
Earlier details mention stipends up to €8,920 per year, along with other allowances. This package lets students focus on their studies without money worries.
Benefits for Africa
By studying locally or regionally, scholars gain expertise while staying connected to their communities. The program builds strong higher education systems across Sub-Saharan Africa. Graduates often become teachers or leaders who drive sustainable change. This setup helps the whole continent grow.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Ready to apply for the 2026 DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships? Follow these steps:
- Go to the official DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships webpage.
- Pick your country or region and the matching program.
- Check that you meet the program’s eligibility rules.
- Set up an account on the DAAD portal.
- Fill out your personal profile and upload all needed documents.
Submit everything before the deadline. Best of luck!
Important Deadline
The application closes on November 27, 2025. Start early to gather your documents and avoid last-minute stress. Check the DAAD site for updates on specific programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the 2026 DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships?
You can apply if you hold a first degree for Master’s or a Master’s for PhD, come from Sub-Saharan Africa, and plan to study in your home country or another Sub-Saharan African country. Women and people from less privileged groups get special encouragement.
What does the scholarship cover?
It covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend up to €600, study and research allowance up to €920, and printing allowance of €800. In-Region scholars also get travel allowance and health insurance.
When is the application deadline for these scholarships?
The application closes on November 27, 2025. Start early to gather documents and check the DAAD site for updates.
How do I apply for the 2026 DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships?
Visit the official DAAD webpage, pick your country or region program, check eligibility, create an account on the DAAD portal, fill your profile, and upload documents before the deadline.