In an exciting development for international students and researchers, the DAAD-NRF Joint Scholarship Programme is still welcoming new applications for the upcoming academic year. If you’re aiming for a Master’s or PhD degree and have your sights set on South Africa—and a potential research stint in Germany—this could be the opportunity that changes your academic journey.
The programme, a collaboration between Germany’s DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) and South Africa’s National Research Foundation (NRF), is one of the few scholarship schemes that offers a truly dual-country experience. Scholars pursue full-time postgraduate studies at a South African public university, while PhD candidates may also conduct part of their research in Germany, fully funded.
What’s on offer?
- Full coverage of tuition and university registration fees
- Monthly living stipend
- Medical insurance
- Research visit funding for PhD candidates to spend time in Germany
- Academic development and networking opportunities.
The scholarship is open to foreign nationals residing in South Africa who are enrolling for full-time Master’s or PhD degrees. The focus areas range from science and technology to the social sciences and humanities. A solid academic background and a clear research direction are essential.
The clock is ticking. With limited slots remaining and a growing number of applicants, prospective students are encouraged to act quickly to submit applications here (https://www2.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148-scholarship-database/?detail=10000279). All applications must be submitted through the NRF’s online system, with supporting documents including transcripts, a well-prepared research proposal, and academic references.