DAAD “Leadership for Africa” Master’s Scholarships 2026 in Germany
The German “Leadership for Africa” (LfA) scholarship programme by DAAD is now officially open for applications for the 2026 academic year. If you are a highly qualified graduate, then this is your moment to pursue a fully-funded Master’s degree in Germany and contribute to shaping the future of your region.
What Is the Leadership for Africa Programme?
The DAAD “Leadership for Africa” initiative aims to support outstanding young academics and refugee scholars by providing them with the opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree in Germany, ultimately preparing them to become leaders and changemakers in their home countries and beyond. This scholarship is not just a study opportunity—it’s a mission to empower Africa’s future leadership.
Who Can Apply?
There are two eligible groups:
1# Refugees
- Must hold official refugee status granted before April 2, 2024
- Country of asylum must be Cameroon, Senegal, or Togo
- Must have completed a Bachelor’s degree at the time of application
- Refugee status must remain valid until April 2026
2# National Graduates
- Must be a citizen and resident of Cameroon, Senegal, or Togo
- Must hold a completed Bachelor’s degree by the time of application
Note: Applicants with medical degrees may only apply for Public Health or Biomedical Science programs. Programs in Medicine, Law, Fine Arts, Architecture, and similar healthcare fields are excluded.
Lfa Scholarship Benefits
- Up to 6 months of intensive German language training in Germany
- Full tuition coverage for a public/state-recognized German Master’s degree
- Monthly stipend of €992
- Travel allowance and yearly study allowance
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- Rent subsidy and family allowance, if applicable
Duration of Funding
- Language course: Starting as early as April 2026
- Master’s studies: Commencing around October 2026, lasting 2 years.
Application Requirements
- Completed DAAD online application form (https://www.daad.de/en/the-daad/intersecting-dimensions-topics/sustainable-development/funding-programmes/funding-programmes-for-students-a-z/leadership-for-africa/)
- Curriculum Vitae (max. 3 pages)
- Motivation Letter (1–3 pages)
- Study Course Profile Form with 3 tuition-free Master’s programmes
- Language certificates (TOEFL, IELTS, DSH, or TestDaF)
- University degree and transcripts
- National ID/passport
- Refugee documents (for refugee applicants)
Additional documents (optional): recommendation letters, proof of employment/internships, certificates, previous scholarship records.
Application Timeline
- Applications open: 2 April 2025
- Deadline to apply: 10 June 2025
Visit daadscholarship.com for More Fully-funded Scholarships 2026 News.
