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Applications are now open for the NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship 2026, a prestigious, fully funded opportunity designed to support South African Master’s and PhD candidates pursuing postgraduate studies at accredited South African universities. This scholarship is co-administered by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) as part of the broader In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme, which fosters academic collaboration between South African institutions and leading German research centers.

Successful applicants will receive full tuition coverage, a monthly stipend, and the chance to apply for a DAAD-funded short-term research stay in Germany, enriching their academic experience with international exposure.

Scholarship Details

• Coverage: Fully Funded
• Host Country: South Africa
• Scholarship Providers: National Research Foundation (NRF) & German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
• Degree Level: Master’s & PhD
• Eligible Institutions: Public South African universities
• Application Deadline: Expected to be July 2025 (please check the official website for updates)
• Official Website: NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship

Scholarship Benefits

Recipients of the NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship will receive:

• Full Tuition Funding: Coverage of all tuition fees for the Master’s or PhD program at a South African university.
• Monthly Stipend: Competitive NRF stipend for living expenses throughout the duration of the degree.
• Short-Term Research Stay in Germany:
  • Living allowance (€992/month for Master’s students; €1,300/month for PhD students).
  • Health, accident, and personal liability insurance.
  • Lump-sum travel reimbursement for round-trip airfare.
• Interdisciplinary Summer School Grants:
  • Opportunity to apply for DAAD-sponsored summer schools in Germany, covering program fees, accommodation, and travel costs.
• Networking & Capacity Building:
  • Access to NRF and DAAD research networks, workshops, and seminars—both in South Africa and Germany—enhancing academic collaboration and career prospects.

Eligibility

To qualify for the NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Citizenship/Residency: Must be a South African citizen or hold permanent South African residency.
• Age Limit:
  • Master’s applicants: 30 years or younger in the year of application.
  • PhD applicants: 32 years or younger in the year of application.
• Academic Performance: Minimum NRF-required academic average of 65% (or equivalent) in prior degree coursework.
• Enrollment: Must be registered as a full-time Master’s or PhD student at an accredited South African university.
• Research Project: Scholarship holders should plan to incorporate any research conducted in Germany into their South African degree project, maintaining at least 4 months of study time after returning.

How To Apply

1. Visit the Official Scholarship Page:
   • Begin your application process by visiting the NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship official website: NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship.
2. Review Eligibility & Requirements:
   • Carefully read through the eligibility criteria, required documentation, and detailed guidelines provided on the website.
3. Prepare Your Application Materials:
   • Gather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, proof of nationality, a well-crafted research proposal, and letters of recommendation.
4. Complete the Online Application Form:
   • Fill out the application form available on the official website. Ensure that every section is completed accurately and that all required details are provided.
5. Submit Your Application:
   • Upload your documentation and submit your application before the deadline (July 2025). Double-check all information to avoid delays.
6. Await Further Communication:
   • After submission, shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further evaluation. Official communication regarding the outcome of your application will be sent through the designated channels provided in your application.

The NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for South African students to pursue postgraduate studies with full financial support while gaining international research exposure in Germany. If you’re eager to advance your academic career and contribute to groundbreaking research, this fully funded scholarship is your gateway to success.