Are you a citizen or permanent resident of South Africa who is working for a master’s or doctoral degree? An outstanding chance to continue your education at a South African university and obtain international research experience in Germany is offered by the NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship Programme 2025.
This esteemed scholarship offers full financing for your postgraduate studies and is jointly given by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the National Research Foundation (NRF). Additionally, it provides access to short-term study trips to Germany and multidisciplinary summer schools.
Full-time Master’s and PhD candidates in all academic fields are eligible to apply for the NRF-DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Program, as long as they are enrolled in a recognized South African university. This program is a component of DAAD’s effort to improve South Africa-German academic relations.
This fellowship offers you more than just financial assistance; it’s your ticket to global academic cooperation. Being an NRF-DAAD scholar will allow you to join a vibrant academic community, receive access to prestigious German research institutes, and acquire invaluable international experience that will help you in your future academic and professional endeavors.
Host Country: Germany, South Africa
University: German Universities, South African Universities
Opportunity Type: Masters, PhD
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligibility Criteria:
- Citizenship or Residency Status: At the time of application, candidates must be either citizens of South Africa or those who are currently residents of the country permanently.
- Age Requirements: Applicants for master’s degrees must be 30 years of age or younger in the year of application.
- Applicants for PhDs must be 32 years of age or younger in the application year.
- Enrollment Status: Candidates must be enrolled in or plan to enroll in a South African public university that has earned accreditation as a full-time postgraduate student (Master’s or PhD).
- Academic Performance: To demonstrate good academic potential, a minimum average of 65% is necessary in your most recent completed qualification (for example, honors for master’s applicants or master’s for PhD applicants).
Benefits:
- Full tuition reimbursement for full-time master’s or PhD programs at any South African university with accreditation.
- A monthly stipend is given to help with living expenses while you’re a student.
- Possibility of short-term, DAAD-funded research in Germany with the following advantages:
- Duration of research: three to six months
- Master’s students receive €992 per month, while PhD students receive €1,300.
- Extra assistance consists of a travel allowance and full health insurance.
- Application requirements: You must use the DAAD Portal to apply at least four months in advance.
Deadline: 04 July 2025
