The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is pleased to offer a fully funded PhD scholarship program for outstanding students from Sub-Saharan African countries to pursue a PhD degree at the University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC) in Benin. The scholarship provides full tuition coverage, a living stipend, and travel allowances, enabling exceptional students to access high-quality research opportunities and contribute to their home countries’ development.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the DAAD University of Abomey-Calavi PhD Scholarship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Be a citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country
- Master’s Degree: Hold a Master’s degree from a recognized university with a minimum GPA of 3.5 or equivalent
- Research Proposal: Have a well-structured research proposal aligned with the research focus of UAC
- English Proficiency: Demonstrate fluency in English, both written and spoken
- Leadership Potential: Exhibit leadership skills, initiative, and a commitment to making a positive impact
- Motivation and Contribution: Articulate a clear motivation for pursuing a PhD and demonstrate a willingness to contribute to UAC and the Sub-Saharan African region
Benefits
The DAAD University of Abomey-Calavi PhD Scholarship Programme provides a comprehensive package of benefits to successful applicants:
- Full Tuition Coverage: Full tuition coverage for the duration of the PhD program at UAC
- Monthly Stipend: A monthly living stipend to cover expenses such as accommodation, meals, and transportation
- Travel Allowance: Travel allowances to and from Benin for research purposes
- Research Support: Access to research facilities, resources, and mentorship from experienced faculty members
- Networking Opportunities: Opportunities to connect with fellow scholars, alumni, and industry professionals in Benin and beyond
- Contribution to Development: The opportunity to apply research findings to address real-world challenges and contribute to the development of Sub-Saharan Africa
Application Process
The application process for the DAAD University of Abomey-Calavi PhD Scholarship Programme is highly competitive and requires the submission of the following documents:
- Completed Application Form: A complete application form with all required information
- Academic Transcripts: Official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- Master’s Degree Certificate: A copy of the Master’s degree certificate
- Research Proposal: A detailed research proposal outlining the proposed research project, including objectives, methodology, and timeline
- Letter of Motivation: A compelling letter of motivation outlining academic goals, research aspirations, and contributions to Sub-Saharan Africa
- Two Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation from academic supervisors or research mentors
- Copy of Identity Document or Passport: A copy of a valid identity document or passport
- Resume: A detailed resume highlighting relevant academic achievements, research experience, and publications
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the DAAD University of Abomey-Calavi PhD Scholarship Programme is typically in March of the year prior to the intended start date of study. For the 2024/2025 academic year, the application deadline is March 31, 2024.
Selection Process
Applications for the DAAD University of Abomey-Calavi PhD Scholarship Programme are reviewed by a selection committee, which considers the following factors:
- Academic Record: Strength of academic performance, including GPA, coursework, and research experience
- Research Proposal: Clarity, originality, and feasibility of the proposed research project
- Relevance to UAC’s Research Focus: Alignment of the research proposal with UAC’s research priorities
- Leadership Potential: Evidence of leadership skills, initiative, and a commitment to making a positive impact
- Personal Statement: Clarity and persuasiveness of the letter of motivation, highlighting personal goals, research aspirations, and contributions to Sub-Saharan Africa
- References: Insights and recommendations provided by academic supervisors or research mentors
- Overall Fit: The applicant’s alignment with the scholarship’s objectives and their potential to contribute to UAC’s research excellence and the development of Sub-Saharan Africa
Start of Program
The successful applicants of the DAAD University of Abomey-Calavi PhD Scholarship Programme will commence their studies at UAC in September of the year following the application deadline.
For more information about the DAAD University of Abomey-Calavi PhD Scholarship Programme and application deadlines, please visit the DAAD website.
Leave a Reply