Applications Open for the 2027 KAS-SAIIA Scholarships in South Africa: Fully Funded Master’s Scholarship and Internship Programme for Future Leaders
The 2027 KAS-SAIIA Scholarships offer a fully funded master's degree combined with a structured internship at a leading South African think tank for young graduates.
Overview
The KAS-SAIIA Scholarship Programme is a joint initiative by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) and the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA). It combines postgraduate master's studies with practical research and policy experience, preparing future leaders for careers in public policy, diplomacy, governance, and international affairs.
Applicants may choose between two programme locations:
- Johannesburg Programme: Scholars work at SAIIA's headquarters focusing on economic resilience, African diplomacy, governance, and foreign policy, with master's studies at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University).
- Cape Town Programme: Scholars work at SAIIA's Cape Town office focusing on climate change, futures studies, sustainability, and environmental governance, with master's studies at the University of Cape Town (UCT), Stellenbosch University, or the University of the Western Cape (UWC) in a Political Science master's programme.
Dual applications to both locations are not permitted.
Benefits
- Full university tuition coverage for the approved master's programme.
- Monthly living stipend covering living expenses and accommodation.
- Hands-on research experience in policy, international affairs, and economics.
- Individual mentorship and professional skills development.
- Publishing and presentation opportunities, including co-authoring articles.
- Networking with researchers, diplomats, policymakers, and civil society leaders.
Eligibility
- Meet the admission requirements for a master's degree at the relevant university.
- Be 30 years old or younger.
- Apply to only one programme location (Johannesburg or Cape Town).
- Demonstrate strong academic ability and interest in public policy, governance, diplomacy, development, or related fields.
- Be willing to undertake both postgraduate study and internship responsibilities simultaneously from 1 February to 30 November.
Note: Students who have already completed the first year of a master's programme are not eligible.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must complete the official scholarship application and apply for university admission separately. If university admission is pending by the application deadline, candidates should still submit the scholarship application and mention the status in their cover letter.
Deadline
The application deadline is 1 September 2026. Late applications are unlikely to be considered.