The DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded program designed to support the academic advancement of young African graduates and refugees at German higher education institutions. The scholarship aims to cultivate future leaders essential for the development of their home countries.
Key Features of the Scholarship:
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Coverage: The scholarship includes a tuition-free Master’s degree (M.A. or M.Sc.) at a public or state-recognized university in Germany, starting in the winter term of 2025 (September/October).
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Preparatory Language Course: A German language course of up to six months in Germany before the commencement of the study program, covering test fees for language certificates (TestDaF or DSH test), pocket money, and accommodation during the language course.
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Monthly Stipend: Scholarship recipients receive monthly payments of €992.
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Additional Benefits: The scholarship offers adequate health, accident, and personal liability insurance, travel allowance, yearly study allowance, and participation in the mandatory “LEAD!” training program focusing on good governance, civil society, and career development.
Eligibility Criteria:
The scholarship targets two main groups:
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Highly Qualified Refugees:
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Holding refugee status granted before April 2, 2024.
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Country of asylum must be either Benin, Cameroon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, or Mauritania.
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Completed a Bachelor’s degree at the time of application.
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Highly Qualified Graduates:
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Citizenship and residence in Benin, Cameroon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, or Mauritania.
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Completed a Bachelor’s degree at the time of application.
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Applicants with a degree in Medicine can apply for Public Health or Biomedical Master’s programs only. Those from artistic disciplines and the field of architecture should refer to DAAD’s subject-specific scholarship programs.
Application Process:
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Registration: Register on the DAAD portal.
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Online Application: Complete and submit the online application form.
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Document Submission: Upload all required documents in PDF format, including a curriculum vitae, letter of motivation, proof of language skills, university degree certificates, transcripts, passport or national ID, and, if applicable, proof of refugee status.
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Submission Deadline: Ensure all application materials are submitted via the DAAD portal by the specified deadline. Incomplete applications or those submitted through other channels will not be considered.
Important Considerations:
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Applicants are responsible for securing admission to a Master’s program at a German university. The scholarship award is contingent upon admission to such a program.
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The language of instruction may be German or English. Applicants must provide proof of necessary language skills as required by the chosen Master’s programs.
For detailed information, application guidelines, and specific deadlines, please refer to the official DAAD scholarship database.
This scholarship presents a remarkable opportunity for aspiring leaders from Africa to pursue advanced studies in Germany, contributing to their personal development and the progress of their home countries.
