DAAD Leadership for Africa (LFA) Scholarship 2025-2026 | Fully Funded

Are you looking for an opportunity to study in Germany with a fully funded scholarship? The DAAD Leadership for Africa (LFA) Scholarship 2025-2026 is an excellent chance for African students to pursue a master’s degree at top German universities. This detailed guide will walk you through the benefits, eligibility, and step-by-step application process for this prestigious scholarship.

What is the DAAD Leadership for Africa (LFA) Scholarship?

The DAAD LFA Scholarship is a fully funded program designed for young refugees and national scholars from Africa, particularly from Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, and Uganda. This scholarship aims to support the academic advancement of these individuals by providing opportunities to study for a master’s degree at some of Germany’s leading institutions.

Germany, known for its world-class educational institutions, offers these scholarships to help foster the next generation of leaders who will contribute to the sustainable development of their home countries. The LFA Scholarship helps recipients become well-trained experts, connected with international partners, and ready to make a significant impact on their nation's future.

Benefits of the DAAD LFA Scholarship

The DAAD LFA Scholarship offers a wide range of benefits that make studying in Germany an affordable and enriching experience:

• Monthly Scholarship Payments: Each recipient will receive a monthly stipend of 934 euros to cover living expenses in Germany.
• German Language Course: A German language course of up to six months will be provided before starting the academic program. This course includes accommodation, pocket money, and test fees for the German language certificate (TestDaF or DSH).
• Tuition-Free Education: The scholarship offers tuition-free education for a master’s degree at a public or state-recognized German university starting in the winter term of 2025.
• Health, Accident, and Liability Insurance: Adequate coverage for health, accidents, and personal liability during your time in Germany.
• Travel Allowance: Financial support to cover the cost of traveling to Germany.
• Additional Training Program: The LEAD! training program is mandatory and designed to enhance leadership skills.
• Allowance for Family Members: If applicable, there are monthly allowances for accompanying family members, including a spouse and/or children.

Duration of the DAAD LFA Scholarship

The funding duration depends on the chosen study program, typically ranging from 12 to 36 months. The German language course will start in April 2025, with university studies beginning around October 1st, 2025. Master’s programs generally require two years of full-time study.

Eligibility Criteria for the DAAD LFA Scholarship

Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements to apply for the DAAD LFA Scholarship:

• Nationality: Applicants must be young refugees and national scholars from Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, or Uganda.
• Language Proficiency: Applicants must have a good command of either English or German. Proof of language proficiency, such as TOEFL/IELTS for English or TestDaF/DSH for German, is required.
• Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent, with at least a second-class upper division level. Generally, applicants should have completed their last academic degree no more than six years prior to applying.
• Refugees: For refugees, a copy of the Refugee ID card issued before April 2, 2023, is required.
• Age Limit: Applicants must be younger than 36 years old at the time of application.

Application Process for the DAAD LFA Scholarship

To apply for the DAAD LFA Scholarship, follow the step-by-step process outlined below:

1. Choose the Right Course: Select the master's degree program you want to pursue at a state-recognized German university. You can apply to a maximum of three courses, and it's important to list them in order of priority.
2. Submit Your Application: Complete the online DAAD application form available on the DAAD portal.
3. Prepare Required Documents: These include your curriculum vitae (CV), motivation letter, university degree certificates, proof of language proficiency, and a completed “Study Course Profile” form.
4. Submit Documents via DAAD Portal: Submit all necessary documents through the DAAD portal. Ensure that your application is complete before the deadline.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Important Documents for the DAAD LFA Scholarship

• DAAD Online Application Form: Complete the form on the DAAD portal.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Provide a detailed CV highlighting your academic background, professional experience, language skills, and relevant achievements.
• Motivation Letter: Write a clear letter explaining your academic and professional goals, why you chose the particular course, and how the scholarship aligns with your future ambitions.
• University Degree Certificates: Include your degree certificates and transcripts, with grading systems explained.
• Proof of Language Skills: Submit the required language certificates (TestDaF, DSH, TOEFL, IELTS, etc.).
• Refugee ID Card: For refugees, provide a copy of the Refugee ID card and UNHCR registration proof.
• Optional Documents: Include any additional supporting documents such as recommendation letters, proof of employment or internships, and certificates of former scholarships.

DAAD Scholarship Deadline

The application deadline for the DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholarship 2025-2026 is June 7th, 2025. Ensure that you submit your complete application before this date.

Why Study in Germany?

Germany is widely regarded as one of the best countries to study abroad due to its high-quality education system, innovative research opportunities, and welcoming international environment. Below are just a few reasons why Germany is an excellent study destination:

1. World-Class Universities: Germany is home to some of the best-ranked universities in the world. Universities such as LMU Munich, Heidelberg University, and Humboldt University of Berlin consistently rank high globally.

2. No Tuition Fees: One of the most attractive features of studying in Germany is the absence of tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate students at public universities. This makes it an affordable option for international students.

3. Job Opportunities: After completing your studies, you can stay up to 18 months in Germany to search for a job. Germany offers excellent job prospects for international graduates, with strong links between universities and companies.

4. High Quality of Life: German cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg offer a high quality of life, with rich cultural experiences, excellent public transportation, and a strong economy.

5. International Environment: Germany attracts thousands of international students every year, creating a diverse and multicultural atmosphere. The country’s central location in Europe also makes it easy to travel and explore neighboring countries.

Conclusion

The DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholarship 2025-2026 is a fantastic opportunity for African students to gain a high-quality education in Germany without the financial burden. If you meet the eligibility criteria, this scholarship can provide you with the necessary resources to pursue your master’s degree, enhance your professional skills, and contribute to the development of your home country.

Start your application process today and take the first step toward a brighter future in Germany!

For more information and to apply, visit the official DAAD website.

Tags