Applications are currently being accepted for the 2025/2026 DAAD Leadership for Africa Master’s Scholarship Programme. This initiative is designed to support the academic and professional growth of young refugees and national scholars from South Sudan and Uganda by offering them the opportunity to pursue higher education in Germany. In response to the challenges brought about by conflict and forced displacement, this programme aims to contribute to the development of future leaders who will play a vital role in driving progress within their communities and beyond. The scholarship provides funding for Master’s degree studies at German universities in a wide range of disciplines. However, certain fields, including Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Dentistry, Law, Fine Arts, Architecture, Nursing, Midwifery, and related healthcare studies, are not eligible under this programme.

This opportunity is open to two specific groups. The first category includes refugees who have obtained official refugee status before April 2, 2024, and who meet the academic qualifications necessary for Master’s level studies in Germany. To be eligible, applicants must currently reside in either South Sudan or Uganda as their country of asylum. Additionally, they must hold a completed Bachelor’s degree at the time of application and provide proof that their refugee status remains valid until at least April 2026. If renewal is required, applicants must submit sufficient documentation as evidence.

The second group consists of highly qualified graduates from South Sudan or Uganda who also meet the academic criteria required for admission to a Master’s programme in Germany. To qualify, applicants must be citizens of either South Sudan or Uganda and currently reside in one of these two countries. They must have completed a Bachelor’s degree that meets the academic standards set by German universities for postgraduate admission, with a minimum classification of second-class upper division. Additionally, no more than six years should have passed since obtaining their last academic qualification. Proficiency in either English or German is also required.

For those who hold a background in Medicine, the scholarship allows applications only for Master’s programmes related to Public Health or Biomedical Sciences, as Medicine itself is not covered under the funding. Meanwhile, applicants from artistic fields or architecture may explore alternative funding opportunities offered by DAAD that are specific to their disciplines. Refugees must submit a valid copy of their Refugee ID card, which must have been issued before April 2, 2024, as part of the application process.

Successful candidates will begin with an intensive German language course of up to six months before starting their university studies. This preparatory language programme, held in Germany, includes coverage for language certification exams such as TestDaF or DSH, as well as accommodation and financial support during the course period. The scholarship covers full tuition fees for a Master’s degree at a public or state-recognized university in Germany, with studies commencing in the winter semester of 2026, typically around September or October.

In addition to tuition-free education, scholarship recipients will receive a monthly stipend of 992 euros to support their living expenses. The funding also includes comprehensive health, accident, and liability insurance coverage throughout the duration of the programme. Further financial support is provided through a travel allowance and an annual study grant to help cover academic-related costs. Depending on individual circumstances, scholars may also be eligible for additional benefits such as a rent subsidy and financial assistance for accompanying family members, including spouses and children.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached to apply for this opportunity