The German Academic Exchange Service is offering fully funded postgraduate scholarships under the In-Country/In-Region Programme for students in developing countries. These scholarships support Master’s and PhD studies at selected regional universities. The goal is simple. Build strong academic systems. Train future lecturers. Strengthen research capacity across the region.
If you are searching for fully funded opportunities in 2026, this programme deserves attention. It funds study within your home country or another regional country, making it one of the most accessible options for regional mobility.
About the DAAD In-Region Programme
The programme supports postgraduate education in development-related fields. It targets graduates who want careers in teaching, research, and leadership roles. Scholars study either in-country or in-region at preselected institutions.
The initiative also focuses on strengthening universities and improving higher education quality in developing countries. By funding future academics, it helps address the shortage of highly qualified lecturers across Sub-Saharan Africa.
In 2025 alone, over 250 new scholarships were awarded under the programme. This shows consistent yearly opportunities for applicants.
Scholarship Benefits
The DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship typically includes:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Study and research allowance
- Thesis printing allowance
- Travel allowance for in-region scholars
- Health insurance support (usually for in-region study)
These benefits make the programme effectively fully funded for most selected candidates.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be from a Sub-Saharan African country
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree for Master’s applications
- Hold a Master’s degree for PhD applications
- Apply to eligible programmes at participating institutions
- Show interest in academic or development-related careers
Women and candidates from disadvantaged backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
Duration of Funding
- Master’s programmes: usually up to 2 years
- PhD programmes: usually up to 3 years
Funding typically covers the full duration of the degree.
Fields of Study
The scholarship focuses on development-related disciplines. These vary by host institution but often include:
- Engineering and technology
- Agriculture
- Natural sciences
- Public health
- Economics and development studies
- Environmental sciences
Available programmes differ by country and partner universities.
How to Apply
Applications follow two steps:
- Apply to an eligible Master’s or PhD programme
- Apply for the DAAD scholarship through the host institution
Remember the deadline is 29th April 2026. Apply today before the deadline and you stand a chance to study your dream program without living your region.
Shortlisting is done by universities, then final selection by DAAD.
Why This Scholarship Stands Out
This programme is ideal if you want:
- Fully funded study in Africa
- Regional academic mobility
- Strong research training
- Career pathways in academia
It is especially useful for applicants who prefer studying closer to home while still receiving international funding.
For more opportunities, you can also explore 30 Fully Funded Masters Scholarships for International Students in 2026 which includes additional programmes open this year.
Final Thoughts
The DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships offer a rare chance to study fully funded without leaving Africa. The funding is strong. The selection is competitive. But the benefits for academic careers are significant.
If you meet the requirements, this is worth applying for early.
