The DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity designed to empower young refugees and national scholars from Africa to pursue their Master’s degrees at top universities in Germany.
This initiative by the German government supports the academic and leadership development of future change-makers from Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, and Uganda. Scholars benefit from tuition-free education, financial support, and training in good governance and civil engagement.
Host Country: Germany
Eligible Applicants: Nationals and refugees from East African countries
Level of Study: Master’s Degree
Fields of Study: All fields (excluding medicine, veterinary medicine, dentistry, law, fine arts, and architecture)
Funding Coverage: Full
Monthly Stipend: €934
Additional Benefits: Travel allowance, accommodation, health insurance, family support stipend
What the Scholarship Covers
Up to 6-month German language course (before the academic program begins)
Full tuition and academic fees
Monthly stipend of €934
Comprehensive insurance (health, accident, personal liability)
Yearly study materials allowance
Travel and relocation costs
Additional monthly support for dependents (if applicable)
Mandatory training in leadership and governance (LEAD! Programme)
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 2025 DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholarship, applicants must:
Hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least Second Class Upper (2:1) or equivalent
Have completed their undergraduate degree within the last 6 years
Possess good English or German language skills
Be a national or refugee in one of the eligible East African countries
For refugees: Present a Refugee ID card issued before April 3, 2024
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents via the DAAD online portal:
1. Completed DAAD Application Form
2. Curriculum Vitae (max. 3 pages, using the EU Europass format)
3. Motivation Letter (1–3 pages explaining academic and personal goals)
4. Study Course Profile Form (list of 3 chosen tuition-free
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