Study in South Africa | Fully Funded KAS-SAIIA Scholarship 2027

The Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) in Germany, in partnership with the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), invites applications for the 2027 KAS-SAIIA Scholarship. This exceptional programme offers outstanding young graduates a fully funded master’s degree combined with a professional internship at one of Africa’s leading public policy think tanks.

What Makes This Programme Unique

This scholarship integrates academic study with practical policy research experience. Successful candidates pursue master’s degrees at top South African institutions while gaining hands-on experience through SAIIA internships. Consequently, scholars develop both theoretical knowledge and applied skills essential for careers in international affairs, governance, public policy, and sustainable development.

The programme operates in two locations: Johannesburg and Cape Town. Each office offers distinct research opportunities aligned with SAIIA’s specialist programmes.

Scholarship Benefits

Selected scholars receive comprehensive support:

• Full tuition fee coverage for the master’s programme
• Monthly living stipend for daily expenses
• Accommodation support for housing costs
• Professional internship at SAIIA for practical experience
• One-on-one mentoring from experienced policy researchers
• Opportunities to publish research
• Professional skills development
• Exposure to international policy networks

Eligible Fields of Study

Applicants may pursue master’s programmes in:

• Development Studies, Political Science, and Economics
• Law, Journalism, and International Relations
• Related humanities and social science programmes

Study Locations and Research Focus

• Johannesburg Office: Focuses on African diplomacy and governance, economic resilience, international relations, foreign policy, and regional cooperation. Students should seek admission to the University of the Witwatersrand.
• Cape Town Office: Specialises in climate change, futures and foresight studies, sustainable development, environmental governance, and global policy challenges. Applicants must apply to Political Science departments at the University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University, or the University of the Western Cape.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet specific criteria for consideration:

• Meet admission requirements for a master’s degree at the relevant university
• Be 30 years old or younger
• Apply to either the Johannesburg or Cape Town programme only
• Secure admission or be in the process of applying to an eligible master’s programme
• Demonstrate strong academic performance and interest in public policy, governance, or international affairs

Applicants with pending university admission decisions may still apply, but they should clearly explain their application status in their cover letter.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should:

1. Visit the programme webpage
2. Apply for admissions to partner universities and secure admission
3. Complete the official online application form before the deadline
4. Choose either Johannesburg or Cape Town programme

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THEIR OFFICIAL WEBSITE 

Critical Deadline

The application deadline for the KAS-SAIIA Scholarship is September 1, 2026. Candidates should submit applications well before this date to ensure consideration.

Conclusion

This scholarship offers exceptional value for students passionate about international affairs, governance, and public policy. The combination of full tuition coverage, living stipend, accommodation support, and professional internship creates comprehensive support for academic and professional development.

For ambitious graduates with strong academic records, this scholarship represents a transformative opportunity to pursue postgraduate education while gaining practical experience at Africa’s leading think tank. The mentorship from experienced researchers and opportunities to publish research provide invaluable career advantages. The September 1 deadline approaches quickly, so prospective applicants should begin document preparation immediately.

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