Dreaming of advancing your academic career with a Master’s or PhD but concerned about the financial burden? Imagine pursuing advanced studies at a leading African institution, with all your expenses covered. The INTRA-AFRICA PERI-ACE Academic Mobility Scheme offers precisely this opportunity, empowering African students to excel in critical fields.
This scholarship is designed to foster academic excellence and cross-continental collaboration within Africa. It provides a pathway for talented individuals to undertake postgraduate studies without the worry of tuition fees, living costs, or travel expenses. If you are an aspiring Master’s or PhD student looking to make a significant contribution to areas like sustainable agriculture, water management, renewable energy, or disaster risk reduction, this scholarship could be your gateway.
This article will guide you through everything you need to know about the INTRA-AFRICA PERI-ACE Scholarship. We will explore what it offers, who is eligible, what documents you need, and how to successfully navigate the application process. Get ready to take the next step in your academic journey.
What is the INTRA-AFRICA PERI-ACE Scholarship?
The INTRA-AFRICA PERI-ACE Academic Mobility Scheme is a prestigious scholarship program dedicated to supporting African students pursuing Master’s and Doctoral degrees within Africa. Led by Stellenbosch University in South Africa, this initiative aims to strengthen education, research, and professional development across the continent by promoting collaboration among its partner universities. The program focuses on four key areas related to climate resilience, encouraging students to contribute to solutions for pressing global challenges.
This scholarship is more than just financial aid; it’s an investment in the future of African scholarship and innovation. By facilitating academic mobility between institutions, PERI-ACE helps build a network of skilled professionals equipped to address complex issues facing the continent. It provides a unique chance to study at a different African institution, gaining diverse perspectives and expanding your academic horizons.
Key Focus Areas for Study
The scholarship is organized around four critical sub-themes related to climate resilience. Applicants must align their chosen Master’s or PhD program with one of these areas:
- Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security: Researching methods to improve agricultural yields, ensure food availability, and promote sustainable farming practices across Africa.
- Water Resource Management: Focusing on efficient and equitable management of water resources, addressing scarcity and ensuring access to clean water.
- Renewable Energy & Green Solutions: Exploring and developing sustainable energy sources and environmentally friendly technologies to power the continent’s growth.
- Disaster Risk Reduction & Management: Developing strategies and systems to mitigate the impact of natural disasters and improve community resilience.
Benefits and Coverage of the Scholarship
The INTRA-AFRICA PERI-ACE Scholarship offers comprehensive financial support to ensure scholars can focus entirely on their studies and research. This extensive coverage aims to remove financial barriers and provide a comfortable environment for academic pursuit. The scholarship is designed to cover all major expenses associated with postgraduate study abroad.
The program provides a full tuition fee waiver, meaning you will not have to pay for your course fees at the host institution. Beyond tuition, it also covers essential living costs, travel, and research-related expenses. This holistic approach ensures that scholars can dedicate their time and energy to their academic goals without financial stress.
What the Scholarship Covers:
- Full Tuition Fees: All costs associated with your Master’s or PhD program are covered.
- Visa Application Fee Reimbursement: Expenses incurred for obtaining the necessary visa are reimbursed.
- Monthly Living Stipend: A regular stipend is provided to cover accommodation, food, and other daily living expenses.
- Airfare: Round-trip airfare from your home country to the host institution is included.
- Arrival and Departure Allowances: Support is provided for initial settling-in costs and for departure.
- Annual Female Allowance: An additional allowance is provided to female scholars to support their studies.
- Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive health and accident insurance is provided for the duration of the scholarship.
- Academic and Research Costs: Funds are allocated for printing, academic materials, research activities, and fieldwork.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
To be considered for the INTRA-AFRICA PERI-ACE Scholarship, applicants must meet specific criteria designed to identify promising postgraduate students committed to contributing to Africa’s development. These requirements ensure that the scholarship reaches deserving candidates who can benefit from and contribute to the program’s objectives. Meeting these criteria is the first crucial step in the application process.
Applicants must demonstrate their commitment to postgraduate studies within the specified climate resilience themes and their connection to African higher education. The scholarship is specifically for African citizens pursuing studies within the continent, fostering intra-African academic collaboration.
Who Can Apply:
- Citizenship: You must be a citizen of an African country.
- Residency: You must be legally resident in Africa at the time of application.
- Academic Background: You must be registered at, or an alumnus of, one of the six partner universities or any recognized African higher education institution.
- Previous Degree: You must hold a degree from a core African institution within the PERI-ACE consortium.
- Study Level: You must be applying for a Master’s or Doctoral degree.
- Field of Study: Your proposed study program must align with one of the four climate resilience sub-themes.
Partner Institutions:
The PERI-ACE consortium includes several leading African universities. You must be applying to study at one of these institutions:
- Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia
- Cheikh Anta Diop University, Senegal
- Ardhi University, Tanzania
- 2iE, Burkina Faso
- Eduardo Mondlane University, Mozambique
- Stellenbosch University, South Africa
Required Documents for Application
Preparing your application requires gathering several key documents that attest to your academic background, identity, and suitability for the scholarship. Each document plays a vital role in the selection process, providing the review committee with a complete picture of your qualifications and potential. It is essential to ensure all documents are accurate, complete, and submitted in the correct format.
Start gathering these materials well in advance of the deadline to avoid any last-minute issues. Pay close attention to any specific formatting requirements or translation needs mentioned in the official application guidelines. Having all your documents ready will make the application process smoother and more efficient.
Essential Documents:
- Valid Passport or National ID: A clear copy of your identification document.
- University Transcripts and Degree Certificates: Official academic records and proof of your previous degrees.
- Two Academic/Professional Reference Letters: Letters from professors or employers who can speak to your academic abilities and character.
- Letter of Support from Home Institution: If applicable, a letter from your current or previous African university.
- Proof of English Proficiency: This can be an IELTS/TOEFL score or a letter from your home university confirming your proficiency.
- Publications (if applicable): Copies of any academic papers or research you have published.
The Application Process: Step-by-Step
Applying for the INTRA-AFRICA PERI-ACE Scholarship involves a structured process to ensure all candidates are considered fairly. It is crucial to follow each step carefully and adhere to all instructions provided on the official scholarship portal. This systematic approach helps manage the high volume of applications and ensures that all necessary information is collected.
The application typically involves completing an online form and, in parallel, applying for admission to your chosen host institution. Understanding this dual application requirement is key to a successful submission. Make sure to allocate sufficient time for each part of the process.
How to Apply:
- Visit the Official PERI-ACE Scholarship Portal: Navigate to the dedicated application webpage for the INTRA-AFRICA PERI-ACE Scholarship.
- Select Your Mobility Scheme: Choose whether you are applying for a Master’s or Doctoral level scholarship.
- Apply for Admission: Concurrently, you must apply for admission to your chosen host institution from the list of partner universities. This is a separate process from the scholarship application itself.
- Complete the Online Scholarship Form: Fill out the comprehensive online scholarship application form accurately. This usually takes between 30 to 45 minutes.
- Submit Your Application: Ensure all required documents are uploaded and submit your scholarship application by the specified deadline.
Application Deadline
The application period for the INTRA-AFRICA PERI-ACE Scholarship is competitive, and it is vital to be aware of the closing date. Missing this deadline means your application will not be considered for the current cycle. Therefore, planning your application submission well in advance is highly recommended.
The deadline for the 2026/27 academic year is approaching. Ensure you have all your documents ready and your application form completed before this date. Early submission is often advisable to avoid any last-minute technical issues or delays.
Application Deadline: 17 September 2026
Tips for a Strong Application
Crafting a compelling scholarship application requires more than just meeting the basic requirements. It involves presenting yourself as a strong candidate who will not only succeed in their studies but also contribute meaningfully to the PERI-ACE program and their home country. Paying attention to detail and highlighting your unique strengths can significantly improve your chances of success.
Focus on clearly articulating your academic goals and how they align with the scholarship’s objectives. Demonstrate your passion for your chosen field and your commitment to addressing climate resilience challenges in Africa. A well-prepared application stands out and makes a lasting impression on the selection committee.
How to Strengthen Your Application:
- Tailor Your Application: Ensure your application clearly shows how your academic and career goals align with the PERI-ACE themes and the specific program at the host institution.
- Highlight Your Achievements: Emphasize your academic successes, research experience, and any relevant extracurricular activities or leadership roles.
- Write a Strong Motivation Letter: Clearly articulate why you are passionate about your chosen field, why you need this scholarship, and how you plan to use your education to benefit Africa.
- Choose Your Referees Wisely: Select individuals who know you well academically or professionally and can provide strong, specific recommendations. Provide them with your CV and information about the scholarship.
- Proofread Meticulously: Before submitting, carefully review your entire application for any grammatical errors, typos, or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects attention to detail.
- Understand the Host Institution: Research the specific department or research group at your chosen host university to show genuine interest and understanding of their work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the INTRA-AFRICA PERI-ACE Academic Mobility Scheme?
It is a scholarship program for African students to pursue Master’s or PhD degrees at partner African universities, focusing on climate resilience and covering all study expenses.
What fields of study does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship supports studies in Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security, Water Resource Management, Renewable Energy & Green Solutions, and Disaster Risk Reduction & Management.
What expenses does the scholarship cover?
It covers full tuition fees, visa costs, a monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, insurance, and academic/research expenses.
What are the main eligibility requirements?
Applicants must be African citizens, residents in Africa, hold a degree from an African institution, and be applying for a Master’s or PhD at one of the six partner universities within the specified themes.
