Overview

The KAS-SAIIA Scholarships are an internship program that provides successful candidates with the opportunity to enroll in a Master's degree with coursework at a South African university while simultaneously working at the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA). The program is funded by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), a German political foundation.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to students from Sub-Saharan Africa, including Ethiopian students. Applicants must meet the entry requirements for a Master's degree at one of the relevant South African universities. Candidates should not be older than 30 years at the time of application. Students who have already completed the first year of their Master's program are not eligible for this internship.

Requirements

Applicants must apply for and be admitted into a Master's program in International Relations, Development Studies, Political Science, Economics, Law, Journalism, or related subjects within the humanities and social sciences. The relevant universities are the University of the Witwatersrand (for Johannesburg-based internships) or the University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University, or the University of the Western Cape (for Cape Town-based internships).

How to apply

Applicants should apply online through the official application portal. It is important to note that candidates must choose to apply for either the Johannesburg-based internship (in conjunction with the University of the Witwatersrand) or the Cape Town-based internship (in conjunction with the University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University, or the University of the Western Cape). Dual applications will not be considered. Even if the status of your university application is unclear by the scholarship deadline, you should still proceed with your scholarship application, noting this in your cover letter. After submitting your contact details, an email with more information about the application process will be sent to you.

Notes

The internship program runs annually from February 1 to November 30. Scholars are assigned mentors and the program is output-focused. Prospective scholars are advised to carefully study SAIIA’s research offerings in its Cape Town and Johannesburg offices to assist in their final choice of university.

Source & Verification

Host organization: Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA)

Original source: OpportunityDesk

Official application page: https://pages.services/briefings.themidpoint.org.za/2027-kas-saiia-scholarship-application/

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

Read the full requirements

Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.

Gather your documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.

Request recommendation letters

Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.

Write your motivation letter

Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.

Proofread and submit early

Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.

Deadline: 2026-09-01 — always verify on the official website before applying.

Go to Official Application

At a Glance

Who Can Apply

Bachelor's graduates seeking a Master's

Destination: South Africa

Funding Coverage

Tuition · Living allowance · Airfare · Health insurance

Deadline

2026-09-01

31 days remaining

Typical Documents Needed

Bachelor's degree certificate
Transcripts
2–3 recommendation letters
Statement of purpose
CV/Resume
English proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL)

Full document guide →

Internship Fully Funded

Sep 4, 2026

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KAS-SAIIA Scholarships 2027

Overview

Coverage

Eligibility

Requirements

How to apply

Notes

Source & Verification

How to Apply

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At a Glance

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