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    HomeScholarshipsNRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship Programme 2025

    If you’re a South African citizen or permanent resident pursuing a Master’s or PhD degree, the NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship Programme 2025 offers a rare opportunity. This fully funded master’s scholarship enables you to study at a South African university while gaining international research exposure in Germany. Discover how this prestigious scholarship can support your academic journey and open doors to global research collaboration.

    About NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship Programme 2025

    The NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship is a collaborative effort between the National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). It aims to strengthen academic partnerships by supporting full-time Master’s and PhD students enrolled at South African universities.

    Host Country and University

    While your degree will be completed in South Africa, the programme includes exciting research opportunities and summer schools in Germany.

    Why This Scholarship is Notable

    This scholarship is not just a financial aid package. It provides:

    • Full tuition and living expenses
    • Access to short-term research stays in Germany
    • Opportunities to attend interdisciplinary summer schools at top German universities
    • A stepping stone to academic and professional networks across continents

    NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship Summary

    DetailsInformation
    Host CountrySouth Africa
    Host InstitutionAny accredited South African university
    Level of StudyMaster’s | PhD
    Eligible Degrees / FieldsAll academic fields
    Scholarship CoverageFully funded (tuition, stipend, travel, insurance)w
    IELTS RequirementNot required for in-country study
    Eligible RegionsSouth Africa (citizens or permanent residents only)
    Application Deadline04 July 2025
    Destination CountrySouth Africa (with research opportunities in Germany)
    CategoryFully Funded, Government Scholarship

    Benefits of the NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship

    The NRF-DAAD Master’s Scholarship is fully funded and includes both financial and developmental benefits:

    Core Scholarship Coverage

    • Full tuition fees at any recognized South African university
    • Monthly living stipend for day-to-day expenses
    • Coverage for health insurance

    Optional Germany-Based Opportunities

    1. Short-Term Research Stay in Germany

    • Duration: 3–6 months
    • Monthly stipend: €992 (Master’s) / €1,300 (PhD)
    • Health/accident insurance and a travel allowance

    2. Interdisciplinary Summer Schools (2025 Dates)

    • Heidelberg University – Global Health (28 July – 22 August)
    • TH Köln – Coping with Climate Extremes (30 August – 21 September)
    • Leipzig University – Green IDEAS (20 August – 9 September)
    • Osnabrück University – GeoTraining (7 – 29 September)

    Eligibility Criteria for NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship

    To qualify for this fully funded graduate program, applicants must:

    • Be a South African citizen or hold permanent residency
    • Be 30 years or younger (Master’s) or 32 years or younger (PhD)
    • Have a minimum academic average of 65% in previous qualifications
    • Be enrolled in or applying to a full-time postgraduate program in South Africa

    Note: English language proficiency tests like IELTS are not required for this in-country scholarship.

    Required Documents for NRF-DAAD Application

    Prepare the following documents for submission on the NRF portal:

    • Certified copy of South African ID or proof of permanent residency
    • Certified academic transcripts and degree certificates
    • Proof of admission or registration at a South African university
    • Detailed CV or academic resume
    • Research proposal or study plan (if required by your department)
    • Reference letters (2 academic referees preferred)
    • Certified translations (if original documents are not in English)

    Tip: All documents should be scanned and clearly legible. Certified copies must not be older than 6 months.

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    Application Timeline for NRF-DAAD Scholarship 2025

    • Opening Date: Already open (info sessions available online)
    • Closing Date: 04 July 2025

    Important: There is a strict deadline. Late applications will not be considered.

    How to Apply for the NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship

    Step-by-Step Application Guide

    1. Visit the NRF Online Submission System
    2. Register/Login to your account
    3. Search for the call: “NRF Postgraduate Scholarships”
    4. Complete the application form and upload all required documents
    5. Submit before the deadline

    Application Tips

    • Start early to gather and certify documents
    • Attend info-sessions for clarity on the process
    • Don’t wait until the last day to submit

    FAQs about the NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship

    Who is eligible?
    South African citizens or permanent residents enrolled in full-time postgraduate studies.

    Is IELTS required?
    No, English proficiency tests are not required for this in-country program.

    Can I apply from [country]?
    Only if you are a citizen or permanent resident of South Africa.

    When will results be announced?
    Selection results are typically announced in late 2025.

    Can I apply for multiple scholarships?
    Yes, but you must disclose all other funding sources in your application.

    Final Thoughts on the NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship

    The NRF-DAAD In-Country Scholarship Programme 2025 is a prestigious opportunity for South African students looking to pursue fully funded Master’s or PhD degrees. With additional benefits like summer schools and research stays in Germany, it’s more than just financial support—it’s a global academic experience.

    Take the next step in your academic journey and position yourself for success in both local and international research spheres.

    📌Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in South Africa with international exposure in Germany.

    Application Deadline: 4th July 2025

    For more scholarship opportunities and updates, stay connected with ScholyHub.



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