DAAD MPhil Southern Urbanism Scholarships 2025: Open for Sub-Saharan African Students; The African Centre for Cities at the University of Cape Town, in collaboration with the Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD), is inviting applications for the 2024/2025 academic year. This initiative offers five In-Region Scholarships to Sub-Saharan African students enrolling in the MPhil in Urban Studies – Southern Urbanism program.
Application Deadline: Apply for the DAAD MPhil Southern Urbanism Scholarships by 27th April 2024.
Eligible Fields: The scholarships are aimed at supporting studies in fields that significantly contribute to national development.
Scholarship Type: These scholarships are available for pursuing a Master’s degree.
Eligibility Criteria: Candidates should:
- Have a four-year university degree with above average results.
- Demonstrate strong motivation and commitment.
- Be proficient in the language of instruction.
- Have completed their last university degree within the past six years.
- Be nationals or permanent residents of a Sub-Saharan African country (excluding South Africa).
- Preferably be university staff, prospective teaching or research staff, public sector employees, or DAFI-program alumni.
- Female applicants, refugees with recognized status, and individuals from less privileged regions or groups are particularly encouraged to apply.
Scholarship Duration and Renewal: The scholarships are typically granted for one year and can be extended up to the regular study period, contingent upon satisfactory academic progress.
Selection Process:
- The University of Cape Town will shortlist candidates based on DAAD’s formal criteria and the university’s admission requirements.
- A final selection will be made by an independent committee, assessing applicants on academic performance, extracurricular activities, motivation, and research relevance.
Study Location: The scholarships are for studies at the University of Cape Town, South Africa.
Number of Awards: Five scholarships are available.
Program Duration: The MPhil program lasts for two years, generally starting in February.
Application Process:
- Apply via the DAAD portal by 9 April 2024.
- Simultaneously, apply for university admission at the University of Cape Town.
- Ensure all necessary documents are submitted, including academic certificates, motivation letter, and research proposal.
Required Application Documents:
- DAAD application form
- Curriculum vitae
- Recommendation letter
- Letter of admission (if available)
- University degree certificates and transcripts
- Letter of motivation
- Proposal for Master’s project (if applicable)
- Passport copy or National ID
Optional Documents:
- Additional relevant documents such as proof of internships or employment.
Scholarship Confirmation: The scholarship takes effect upon issuance of the university Admission Letter and proof of commencement at the host university.
Submission Guidelines: Applications must be submitted through the DAAD portal. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Here’s an easy yet detailed step-by-step guide for applicants aiming to secure the DAAD MPhil Southern Urbanism Scholarship:
1. Check Eligibility
- Ensure you are a national or permanent resident of a Sub-Saharan African country, excluding South Africa.
- Verify you have a four-year university degree with at least Second Class/Upper Division or equivalent.
- Confirm that your last university degree was completed within the last six years.
- Identify if you belong to the preferred categories: university staff, prospective teaching/research staff, public sector employee, or DAFI-program alumni.
2. Prepare Application Documents
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Update your CV with your academic and professional history.
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Gather certified copies of your university degree certificates and transcripts.
- Letter of Motivation (1-2 pages): Write a compelling motivation letter explaining why you want to pursue the MPhil in Southern Urbanism and how you will contribute to your field.
- Recommendation Letter: Obtain a recommendation letter from a university teacher or professional supervisor.
- Research Proposal (if applicable): Prepare a short proposal for a possible Master’s project, including a timetable if the program involves research.
3. Apply to the University of Cape Town
- Start the application process for the MPhil in Urban Studies – Southern Urbanism at the University of Cape Town. Check their website for specific admission requirements and deadlines.
4. Apply for the DAAD Scholarship
- Register and complete the DAAD application form on the DAAD portal.
- Submit all required documents through the DAAD portal before the deadline (9 April 2024).
- Ensure your application on the DAAD portal is complete and submitted before closing time.
5. Monitor and Comply with Deadlines
- DAAD Scholarship Deadline: 9 April 2024
- University of Cape Town Admission Deadline: Verify on the university’s website
6. Follow Up
- After submitting your applications, monitor your email and the DAAD portal for any communication regarding your application status.
- Be prepared to attend interviews or provide additional information if required.
7. Secure Admission and Scholarship Confirmation
- Ensure you receive an admission letter from the University of Cape Town.
- The scholarship will be confirmed only after receiving the admission letter and submitting proof of your presence at the host university.
8. Plan Your Relocation
- If awarded the scholarship, start making preparations for your move to Cape Town, South Africa, including visa applications, accommodation arrangements, and travel plans.
Contact Information:
For DAAD Scholarship queries, contact Hellen Sahlmann at sahlmann@daad.de. For admission and program details, contact Dr. Anna Selmeczi at anna.selmeczi@uct.ac.za.
