PERI-ACE Scholarship 2026 in Africa | Fully Funded

The PERI-ACE Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded Intra-Africa academic mobility scheme. It supports African students pursuing Master’s and PhD degrees at participating higher education institutions across Africa. Led by Stellenbosch University, the programme covers travel, visa fees, subsistence, accommodation, insurance, and academic and research costs. It focuses on climate resilience sub-themes such as sustainable agriculture, water resource management, renewable energy, and disaster risk reduction.

Applicants must be citizens of an African country and legally resident in Africa at the time of application. They must be registered at or alumni of one of the six partner universities or any recognised African higher education institution. They must also hold a degree from a core African institution within the PERI-ACE consortium. Selection considers eligibility, academic merit, and alignment with programme themes.

The eligible fields are organised around four climate resilience sub-themes. These are Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security, Water Resource Management, Renewable Energy and Green Solutions, and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management. Applicants should align their proposed Master’s or PhD research with one of these areas to strengthen their application and meet the programme’s thematic focus.

The scholarship covers full tuition fees and reimburses visa application fees. It provides a monthly living stipend for accommodation and food, airfare from the home country to the host institution, and arrival and departure allowances. Scholars also receive an annual female allowance where applicable, insurance coverage, and support for printing, academic costs, research, and fieldwork expenses.

The duration is two years for Master’s programmes and up to three years for Doctoral programmes. This period depends on the chosen mobility scheme and the academic requirements of the host institution. Scholars are expected to complete their studies within the approved timeframe and participate fully in the academic and research activities of the PERI-ACE consortium.

The PERI-ACE consortium includes six partner institutions: Addis Ababa University in Ethiopia, Cheikh Anta Diop University in Senegal, Ardhi University in Tanzania, 2iE in Burkina Faso, Eduardo Mondlane University in Mozambique, and Stellenbosch University in South Africa. Scholarship holders study at one of these universities depending on their chosen mobility scheme and host institution.

Scholars are selected based on eligibility, academic merit, and alignment with PERI-ACE themes. Applications are reviewed by host institutions and the programme secretariat. Candidates with strong academic records, relevant research interests, and support from their home institutions may have a competitive advantage during the selection process. The number of places is variable and depends on available slots per institution.

Required documents include a valid passport or national ID, university transcripts and degree certificates, two academic or professional reference letters, and a letter of support from the home institution. Applicants must also provide proof of English proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL, or a letter from the home university. Publications should be included if applicable.

To apply, visit the official PERI-ACE scholarship portal and choose your preferred mobility scheme, either Master’s or Doctoral. Apply concurrently for admission at your chosen host institution. Then complete the online scholarship form, which takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Ensure all required documents are uploaded and submit before the deadline of 17 September 2026.

The application deadline is 17 September 2026. Applicants should submit the online scholarship form and admission applications before this date. Late submissions may not be considered. Since the selection process includes host institution review and secretariat evaluation, it is advisable to apply early and ensure all supporting documents are complete and accurate.