South African-German Centre for Development Research (SA-GER CDR) Scholarship Application for 2026/2027
Detailed guide on South African-German Centre for Development Research (SA-GER CDR) Scholarship Application 2026/2027. Are you a motivated postgraduate student with a strong interest in development research, public policy, and sustainable development in Africa? The SA-GER CDR Scholarship 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering an excellent opportunity for talented students to pursue advanced studies and research training within a collaborative South African–German academic framework. The South African-German Centre for Development Research (SA-GER CDR) is a joint initiative that strengthens capacity in development research through high-quality postgraduate education, interdisciplinary research, and international academic cooperation.
The SA-GER CDR Scholarship provides substantial financial and academic support, which may include tuition coverage, research funding, and support for mobility and academic exchange. Scholars benefit from access to leading universities, experienced supervisors, and a vibrant research environment that focuses on critical development challenges such as governance, health systems, social protection, economic development, and sustainability. The programme is designed to equip graduates with advanced analytical, research, and policy-relevant skills that are highly valued in academia, government, international organisations, and the development sector.
By applying for the SA-GER CDR Scholarship 2026/2027, students position themselves at the forefront of development research in Africa while gaining exposure to international best practices and cross-country collaboration. This prestigious scholarship not only eases the financial burden of postgraduate study but also opens doors to impactful careers that contribute to evidence-based development policy and practice.
In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.
Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026
Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026
Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026
Keep reading to find out more about the eligibility requirements, fields of study supported, application process, and closing date for the South African-German Centre for Development Research (SA-GER CDR) Scholarship 2026/2027.
About SA-GER CDR
The South African‑German Centre for Development Research (SA-GER CDR) was established to promote advanced research and academic cooperation at Master’s and PhD level. Its core objective is to train highly skilled graduates who can respond to complex development issues arising from transformation processes in Africa and beyond.
The Centre operates as a long-standing collaboration between the University of the Western Cape (UWC) and the Ruhr‑University of Bochum, combining African and European academic excellence. Training and research draw from social sciences, economics, and administrative sciences, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to development studies.
About SA-GER CDR Scholarship Programme 2026/2027
The SA-GER CDR Scholarship is a 2-year DAAD merit-based scholarship for a Master’s degree in Development Studies.
Field of Study Covered
- Master’s in Development Studies
- Hosted at the Institute for Social Development (ISD)
- School of Government, University of the Western Cape (UWC)
This programme is ideal for candidates aspiring to careers in:
- Social development
- Economic policy and planning
- Public administration
- Research and academia
- Civil society and activism
- International development organisations
Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the official programme documents on:
- Scholarship aims and relevance
- Course structure and academic expectations
Scholarship Coverage and Benefits
The SA-GER CDR Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, including:
- Full tuition fees
- Registration fees
- DAAD-related academic support and programme benefits
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews 6–8 weeks after the application deadline, conducted in person, telephonically, or online (e.g. Skype).
Eligibility Requirements for SA-GER CDR Scholarship Application for 2026/2027
Applicants must meet all of the following minimum criteria to be considered:
- Must be a citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country (including South Africa)
- Must have completed a degree related to Development Studies
- South African applicants: must hold an Honours Degree
- Non-South African applicants: must have completed a 4-year undergraduate degree or equivalent
- Must have achieved a minimum 70% average for the most recent qualification
- Must have studied at an internationally recognised university
- Must be fluent in English (written and spoken) and provide proof (e.g. TOEFL or equivalent)
- Relevant work or voluntary experience is advantageous
- Must apply within 6 years of completing the qualifying degree
- Must be able to study full-time at UWC
- Must be available during the interview period
Applications that do not meet all requirements will not be considered.
How to Apply for SA-GER CDR Scholarship 2026/2027
Applications must be submitted online during an official open call via the SA-GER CDR application portal.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must upload clear copies of the following documents:
- Motivational letter of application
- Matric certificate
- Certified copy of South African ID (if applicable)
- Copy of passport
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (using the Europass CV format)
- Academic transcript from the most recent institution
- Certified copies of academic certificates
- One academic reference
- One professional reference (if applicable)
Mandatory Written Assignment (MA Applicants)
Master’s applicants must submit a one-page paper on one of the following topics:
- How can inequality be measured, and what are its main causes in your country?
- What are the prospects for a successful Developmental State model in an African country of your choice?
- What are the root causes of migration, and how can they be addressed?
Plagiarised submissions will result in automatic disqualification.
Important Notes for Applicants
- Women and South African students are strongly encouraged to apply
- Applicants may apply for the scholarship before applying for admission at UWC
- The online application form is only available during an open call
- Applications can only be submitted once
- References may be emailed directly by referees, clearly stating the applicant’s name
- Non-English or non-Afrikaans documents must include a certified English translation
- Applicants will be notified of outcomes by the end of August
Closing Date for SA-GER CDR Scholarship Application 2026/2027
Application Deadline: 20 June
Late applications will not be accepted. Applicants are advised to submit all materials well before the deadline.
Contact the SA-GER CDR Scholarship Office
For further information or application-related queries, contact:
Contact Person: Ina Conradie
Tel: 021 959 3845