For African students looking to earn a fully funded Master’s or PhD within the continent, the Intra-Africa Scholarships offer one of the most generous mobility programs available today. Officially known as the Intra‑Africa Academic Mobility Scheme, this initiative supports academic exchange and full degrees at leading universities across Africa.
Backed by the African Union and implemented through university partnerships, the program is designed to strengthen research, innovation, and regional collaboration in higher education.
If you are an African national planning postgraduate study abroad within Africa, here is what you need to know.
Deadline: Varies by program
WhatsApp ChannelWhat is the Intra-Africa Scholarship?
The Intra-Africa Scholarship is a fully funded academic mobility program that allows students to:
- Complete a full Master’s degree in another African country
- Pursue a PhD at a partner university
- Join short-term academic exchanges
- Participate in staff mobility programs
Unlike global schemes that send students outside the continent, this program focuses entirely on Africa-to-Africa mobility, building regional expertise and academic networks.
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Financial Benefits
The scholarship covers nearly all major study expenses. Selected candidates typically receive:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Around €600 per month for Master’s students
- Around €900 per month for PhD candidates
- Round-trip airfare
- Visa costs
- Comprehensive health and travel insurance
- Settling-in allowance
- Research support for doctoral students
In some consortia, additional support is available for female scholars and students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
This makes it one of the most comprehensive, fully funded Scholarships in Africa.
Host Countries and Universities
Scholarships are offered through university consortia across multiple African countries, including:
- South Africa
- Ghana
- Nigeria
- Ethiopia
- Tanzania
- Kenya
- Zimbabwe
Each consortium focuses on specific academic disciplines and research themes.
Also Check: AFAS Master’s Fellowship 2026 for Africans
Fields of Study
Eligible academic areas vary by consortium, but commonly include:
- Engineering and technology
- Agriculture and food security
- Climate change and sustainability
- Data science and ICT
- Natural sciences
- Business and economics
- Public health
Many programs prioritize themes aligned with Africa’s development agenda, including green transition, innovation, and sustainable development.
Also Check: Loughborough Development Trust Africa Scholarship 2026 in UK
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Intra-Africa Scholarship, applicants must generally:
- Be a citizen and resident of an African Union member state
- Apply to study in a different African country, not their home country
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree for Master’s applications
- Hold a Master’s degree for PhD applications
- Meet the academic and language requirements of the host institution
Each consortium may have additional selection requirements.
Why This Scholarship Matters
The Intra-Africa Academic Mobility Scheme is more than a scholarship. It is a long-term investment in African research capacity and regional integration. By studying in another African country, students gain:
- Cross-border academic exposure
- Access to regional research networks
- Stronger employability across the continent
- Experience in diverse academic systems
For aspiring researchers, this can significantly strengthen a CV while contributing to Africa’s knowledge economy.
How to Apply
Applications are not submitted through a single central portal. Instead, candidates must apply directly to participating university consortia.
To find open calls:
- Visit partner university websites
- Search for “Intra-Africa Scholarship 2026 intake.”
- Check eligibility and field-specific requirements
- Prepare academic transcripts, motivation letter, and references
Deadlines vary by consortium, so early preparation is essential.
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship is only open to African nationals. International students from outside Africa are not eligible under this scheme.
Why You Should Consider Intra-Africa Scholarship
For African students seeking fully funded postgraduate study within the continent, the Intra-Africa Scholarship remains one of the strongest mobility programs available. With full financial coverage, cross-border academic experience, and research-focused training, it offers a practical path to regional leadership in academia and industry.
If you are planning postgraduate study in Africa in 2026, this program is worth serious consideration.
