Overview
The Leadership for Africa (LFA) Scholarship supports postgraduate studies in Germany for students from selected African countries. The program focuses on building leadership capacity and strengthening international academic cooperation.
Selected candidates will begin with a German language course before starting their academic programs. The scholarship also includes a mandatory leadership training component known as LEAD.
The program duration ranges from 12 to 36 months, depending on the selected master’s program.
About the Organization
The scholarship is offered by the German Academic Exchange Service, commonly known as DAAD.
DAAD is one of the world’s largest funding organizations for international academic exchange. It supports students and researchers by providing scholarships and promoting global collaboration in education and research.
The Leadership for Africa program is part of DAAD’s commitment to supporting education and development in Africa.
Scholarship Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | DAAD Leadership for Africa (LFA) Scholarship 2026 |
| Host Country | Germany |
| Study Level | Master’s Degree |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Duration | 12–36 Months |
| Eligible Countries | Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Uganda |
Financial Coverage
The DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support to selected candidates.
Benefits include:
- Monthly stipend of €934
- Full health, accident, and liability insurance
- Travel allowance to and from Germany
- Annual study allowance
- Tuition-free education at public universities
- German language course (up to 6 months) before studies
- Accommodation and pocket money during language training
- Additional rent subsidy (if applicable)
- Family allowance for accompanying dependents (if applicable)
This funding ensures that students can focus on their studies without financial pressure.
Available Fields of Study
The scholarship supports a wide range of academic disciplines offered at German universities.
Fields may include:
- Engineering and Technology
- Social Sciences
- Business and Economics
- Environmental Studies
- Health Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
Applicants can select up to three master’s programs, provided they are offered at public or state-recognized universities in Germany.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be from Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, or Uganda
- Must hold a bachelor’s degree with at least upper second-class honors
- Degree must have been completed within the last six years
- Must demonstrate English or German language proficiency
- Must meet admission requirements for German universities
Additional requirements for refugees:
- Provide a valid refugee identification document issued before April 2023
Applicants should also show strong motivation and potential for leadership.
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Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Completed DAAD online application form
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 3 pages)
- Motivation letter (1–3 pages)
- Study course profile (selecting up to three programs)
- Proof of language proficiency
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Copy of passport or national ID
Optional documents:
- Recommendation letters
- Internship or work experience certificates
- Proof of extracurricular activities
All documents must be submitted through the official DAAD portal.
Application Deadline
The application period for the DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholarship typically runs from:
April to June 2026
Applicants should check the official portal for exact dates and submit applications within this period.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholarship:
- Choose up to three eligible master’s programs in Germany.
- Apply directly to the selected universities.
- Prepare all required documents.
- Wait for nomination by the university selection committee.
- If nominated, submit your application through the DAAD portal.
- Complete the application process and upload all documents.
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by DAAD for further evaluation.
Official Website
Conclusion
The DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholarship 2026 provides a strong opportunity for students from selected African countries to pursue fully funded master’s studies in Germany. The program offers financial support, academic training, and leadership development.
