Study in East Africa | EAC Student Mobility Scholarship 2026/27

The Inter-University Council for East Africa has launched applications for the 2026/27 Student Mobility Scholarship Scheme. This regional programme invites qualified nationals from six EAC countries to pursue Diploma, Bachelor, Master’s, and PhD studies across 28 partner universities. The fully funded award covers tuition, stipends, and all study, living, and research expenses for selected candidates.

What the Scholarship Covers

Selected scholars receive comprehensive support through this programme:

• Full tuition costs for the entire study duration
• Living stipend for daily expenses
• Study costs including books and materials
• Research expenses for postgraduate candidates
• Travel and accommodation support

This comprehensive funding ensures scholars can focus entirely on their academic pursuits without financial distractions.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet specific criteria for consideration:

• Be a national and resident of an EAC Partner State (national ID/passport/birth certificate required)
• Apply to an eligible programme at a university in a country other than your own
• Meet the admission requirements of the chosen university
• Show excellent academic performance per the host programme’s entry requirements
• Hold Upper Second-Class Honours, Distinction, or equivalent for Master’s and PhD applicants
• Be aged below 35 for Master’s; below 45 for PhD at application time

Work experience provides an added advantage for PhD applicants, strengthening their candidacy.

Required Documents

Candidates must prepare comprehensive application materials:

• Completed application form
• Letter of motivation for the scholarship
• Up-to-date and signed Curriculum Vitae
• Certified copies of all academic certificates and transcripts
• Copy of the university application form and attachments
• Recent passport-size colour photograph
• Evidence of nationality of an EAC Partner State
• Proof of residency (certificate from local government)
• Evidence of awards (leadership, community service, etc.)
• Any other supporting evidence (medical reports, letters of reference)

Application Process

Interested candidates should:

1. Visit the EAC-SMS webpage
2. Identify a programme and host university
3. Review the admission requirements carefully
4. Compile all required documents
5. Upload each document as a PDF (or image for photos) directly in the online application
6. Complete the online application form
7. Upload all required PDFs

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Critical Deadline

The application deadline for the EAC Student Mobility Scholarship Scheme is August 20, 2026. Candidates should submit applications well before this date to ensure consideration.

Conclusion

This regional scholarship offers exceptional value for students seeking cross-border education within East Africa. The programme promotes student exchange across the East African Community, deepening regional integration through shared learning.

Selected candidates gain exposure to different academic environments, cultures, and perspectives. This experience enhances their academic development while building regional networks and understanding.

For ambitious students with strong academic records, this scholarship represents a transformative opportunity to pursue education across East Africa without financial burden. The August 20 deadline approaches quickly, so prospective applicants should begin document preparation immediately. The comprehensive funding ensures scholars can fully engage with their studies and contribute meaningfully to regional development.

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