Fully Funded PhD Scholarship in Germany for African Women 2025: BIGSAS–DAAD Graduate School Scholarship Programme

Application Deadline:  04 January 2026

An outstanding chance for African women scholars to become part of a distinguished research community is being offered by the Bayreuth International Graduate School for African Studies (BIGSAS) at Germany’s University of Bayreuth. The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) provides the framework for this initiative, with BIGSAS intending to equip early-career researchers in African Studies with essential resources and an academic network to progress their work and make contributions to the field.

About BIGSAS
The University of Bayreuth’s extensive dedication to African Studies includes BIGSAS. A varied community of scholars concentrating on interdisciplinary research into Africa’s historical, social, cultural, and political landscapes is hosted here. Scholars entering BIGSAS integrate into an international academic network dedicated to promoting exchange, collaborative research, and a multidisciplinary methodology for comprehending Africa’s complexities.

Key Scholarship Details

• Award: The DAAD’s Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) has made two scholarships available.
• Scholarship Duration: Funding is provided for up to four years, commencing in October 2025.
• Additional Support: Participation in a German language course during the summer of 2025 is also included for interested candidates.
• Application Deadline: All applications must be submitted by 04 January 2026.

Eligibility Criteria
African women scholars who satisfy the following conditions are the specific target for this scholarship:

• Academic Qualification: A Master’s or equivalent degree, obtained within the last six years and demonstrating academic excellence, must be held.
• Residency: Residence in Germany for more than 15 months prior to the scholarship start date should not have been maintained by candidates.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in either English, German, or French is necessary, with English serving as the primary working language.

Scholarship Benefits
A comprehensive package is received by selected scholars:

• Financial Support: Their research and academic work is fully funded for a period of up to four years.
• Language Course: An opportunity to take part in a German language course in the summer of 2025 is provided, which enriches their experience and facilitates deeper engagement with the academic environment.
• Academic Resources: Access is granted to BIGSAS’s extensive network, research support, and the collaborative academic community at the University of Bayreuth.

How to Apply
The official BIGSAS application page should be visited for comprehensive details regarding the application process, eligibility, and required documents:

Click here to apply

Step-by-Step Guide to Application

Step 1 – Check Basic Requirements
Application to BIGSAS is possible if you…

• possess a Master’s degree or an equivalent qualification, and
• have planned a doctoral research project aligned with the research interests or academic disciplines of BIGSAS Members.

Step 2 – Find a Supervisor

• Contact with one or several BIGSAS Members to discuss your proposed research project should be initiated.
• Following an agreement, a supervision agreement must be established. The form (English / German) can be downloaded on the portal, with full completion required.

Step 3 – Complete Your Application via BayDOC Portal
Submission of the application is conducted through the BayDOC portal: To access the portal click here
The following supportive documents (in English, French, or German) must be attached:

1. The finalized supervision agreement.
2. A project proposal (maximum 10 pages) incorporating a one-page English summary.
3. A one-page motivation letter detailing your reasons for applying to BIGSAS.
4. Your written and evaluated Master’s or equivalent thesis in soft copy.
5. Two letters of recommendation, personally signed by academic referees.
6. A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining your academic progress and qualifications.
7. A self-declaration confirming you are not accepted or enrolled in a doctorate program elsewhere.
8. Your Secondary School Graduation Certificate / Higher Education Entrance Certificate.
9. Your Bachelor’s Degree certificate and complete transcript of records (certified copy).
10. Your Master’s Degree certificate and complete transcript of records (certified copy).
11. Any available list of academic publications.

Application Requirements
Candidates must supply the following for their application:

• Academic Credentials: Certified documentation of an excellent Master’s or equivalent degree.
• Letters of Recommendation: Two letters originating from academic referees.
• Proof of Language Proficiency: Evidence of competency in English, German, or French.
• Additional Documents: All items outlined in the Step-by-Step Guide above.

Why Apply?
African women scholars are presented with a unique opportunity to advance their research, work alongside leading academics, and join a globally recognized institution by applying to BIGSAS. The support of researchers aiming to create a meaningful impact is a priority for BIGSAS, thanks to its interdisciplinary focus and commitment to African Studies. Not only is financial assistance furnished by this scholarship, but a supportive academic environment designed to nurture professional growth and development in African Studies is also offered.