The University Of The Western Cape, South Africa PhD Scholarship Applications For Africans 2026 - Apply Now!

About The University of the Western Cape PhD Scholarship

Are you passionate about driving development in Africa through research? The University of the Western Cape, South Africa opens up a PhD scholarship. Do you aspire to earn a PhD in Development Studies from a top-tier South African university? The opportunity you’ve been waiting for is here! Applications are now open for the 2026 intake of the University of the Western Cape’s (UWC) South African-German Centre for Development Research’s In-Region Scholarship Programme for Sub-Saharan Africa. Seize this fully funded chance to advance your academic and professional career!

The In-Region Scholarship Programme for Sub-Saharan Africa is a prestigious initiative funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and administered by DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service). It aims to foster advanced research and academic capacity in Sub-Saharan Africa by supporting outstanding PhD candidates in Development Studies at the University of the Western Cape (UWC), South Africa.

The programme is designed to enhance research on pressing development issues across the African continent while strengthening collaboration between African and German higher education institutions. Scholars will receive financial support and have access to academic resources, mentorship, and professional networks that will contribute to their scholarly and professional success.

Eligible Fields

The scholarship is available for candidates pursuing a PhD in Development Studies.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this scholarship, applicants must:

Be nationals or permanent residents of a Sub-Saharan African country (excluding South African nationals).
Hold a Master’s degree (minimum two years) in a related field with above-average academic results (at least Second Class/Upper Division or its equivalent).

Demonstrate strong academic motivation and commitment to their research.
Have completed their last university degree within the past six years.
Have proficiency in English, as it is the language of instruction.

Possess a strong research proposal aligned with development-related themes.
Show commitment to working on development issues and contributing to African research capacity.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on the following factors:

Academic Excellence – Strong grades and research potential.
Relevance of Research Proposal – Alignment with development issues in Africa.
Commitment to Development – Potential to contribute to academic and social development.

Professional & Leadership Experience – Evidence of previous engagements in research, teaching, or development projects.

Eligible Countries

Citizens or permanent residents of Sub-Saharan African countries (excluding South Africa) are eligible to apply.

Benefits of The University of the Western Cape PhD Scholarship

Selected scholars will receive comprehensive funding that includes:

Full Tuition Fees – Paid directly to the University of the Western Cape.
Monthly Living Allowance – €700 per month to cover basic expenses.
Study and Research Allowance – €920 per year to support academic resources.
Thesis Publishing Costs – A one-time grant of €800.
Travel Allowance – Covers round-trip airfare for in-region candidates at the beginning and end of the scholarship period.
Health Insurance – Provided for in-region students.
Short-Term Research Stay in Germany – A funded research visit of 3 to 6 months (subject to availability of funds).
Access to Summer Schools and Training in Germany – Beneficiaries may participate in DAAD-sponsored academic and professional development programs.

This scholarship provides not only financial support but also access to a global network of researchers, faculty mentorship, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring scholars receive a well-rounded academic experience.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should follow these steps to complete their application:

Review the full application details and requirements on the official DAAD/UWC website.
Prepare the necessary documents, including:
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Research proposal outlining the focus of the PhD study.
- Motivation letter explaining career goals and research interests.
- English proficiency proof (if required).
- Recommendation letters from academic referees.
Complete the online application through the designated portal.
Submit the application before the deadline: April 09, 2025.

If you meet the eligibility requirements and are eager to contribute to development research in Africa, don’t miss this incredible opportunity to study at one of South Africa’s leading universities with full funding! Apply now and take a step toward shaping Africa’s future through academic excellence and research.