INTRA-AFRICA Peri-ACE Scholarship 2026/2027: Fully Funded Scholarships for African Students Pursuing Master’s and PhD in Africa

Introduction

Africa is investing in its own future — and one of the most significant ways it is doing so is through the INTRA-AFRICA Academic Mobility Scheme, which funds African students to pursue postgraduate degrees at top universities within Africa.

The Partnership for Enhanced and Revitalized Instruction across Africa’s Centres of Excellence (Peri-ACE) scholarship is one of the flagship mobility programmes under this initiative. It is designed to enable African students to cross borders within the continent, earning Master’s and PhD degrees at African Centres of Excellence (ACEs) — high-quality academic institutions selected and supported by the World Bank and the African Union.

If you are an African national considering a Master’s or PhD at an African university and you want full funding — covering tuition, living expenses, travel, and more — the Peri-ACE scholarship is one of the best opportunities available.

This guide covers everything you need to know: what the scholarship offers, who is eligible, which universities participate, how to apply, verified deadlines, and practical tips to strengthen your application.

Important: All information in this article has been verified against official sources to the greatest extent possible as of June 2025. Because application cycles change, always confirm the latest details on the official Peri-ACE and IUCEA websites before applying.

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What Is the INTRA-AFRICA Peri-ACE Scholarship?

The Peri-ACE scholarship is a mobility scholarship funded through the INTRA-AFRICA Academic Mobility Scheme, which is itself funded by the European Union and implemented by the African Union through organizations including the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) and partner institutions.

The programme’s full name is:

Partnership for Enhanced and Revitalized Instruction across Africa’s Centres of Excellence (Peri-ACE)

Core Objectives

• Promote intra-African academic mobility by enabling students from one African country to study at a university in another African country
• Strengthen Africa’s own higher education institutions by channelling talent into African Centres of Excellence
• Build postgraduate-level human capital in priority development fields including STEM, health, agriculture, education, applied social sciences, and environment
• Foster Pan-African collaboration and knowledge sharing among African universities

Who Funds It?

The INTRA-AFRICA Peri-ACE Scholarship is funded by the European Union (EU) through the African Union Commission (AUC) as part of the broader Intra-Africa Academic Mobility Scheme. Implementation is handled by coordinating universities and the IUCEA.

This is not a private scholarship — it is an institutional, multilateral programme with formal governance and accountability structures.

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What Does the Peri-ACE Scholarship Cover?

The Peri-ACE scholarship is fully funded for selected students. Based on official programme information, the scholarship typically covers:

Important Notes on Funding

• The exact monetary amounts for stipends and allowances may vary depending on the host country and the specific call for applications.
• The scholarship covers the mobility period — that is, the period during which the student is studying at a university in a country different from their home country.
• Students are expected to study at a host university that is different from their home institution and located in a different African country.

Verification note: Specific stipend amounts for the 2026/2027 cycle had not been officially published at the time of this article’s preparation. The benefits listed above are based on the programme’s established framework. Applicants should confirm exact figures through the official call for applications when released.

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Degree Levels Covered

The Peri-ACE scholarship supports:

Master’s Degree

• Typically 1–2 years
• In fields offered by participating African Centres of Excellence

PhD (Doctoral) Degree

• Typically 3–4 years
• Research-focused programmes at participating ACEs
• May include a sandwich model (split between home and host universities)

The scholarship does not cover undergraduate (Bachelor’s) degrees.

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Fields of Study

The Peri-ACE scholarship supports postgraduate study in fields aligned with the African Centres of Excellence programme areas. These generally include:

• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
• Agriculture and food security
• Health and biomedical sciences
• Education and teacher training
• Applied social sciences
• Environmental science and climate change
• Water and sanitation
• Mining and mineral resources
• ICT and data science
• Governance and policy

The exact fields available depend on which partner universities are participating in a given call and what programmes those universities offer.

You cannot choose any field at any university. You must apply for a programme that is offered by a participating ACE in the specific call for applications.

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Participating Partner Universities

The Peri-ACE programme operates through a network of African Centres of Excellence (ACEs) — universities that have been designated as centres of excellence through the World Bank’s ACE initiative or similar programmes.

These universities are spread across East, West, Central, and Southern Africa.

Examples of ACE Partner Universities

The following universities have been associated with the Peri-ACE and INTRA-AFRICA mobility programmes. Note: Participating universities may change with each call. Always check the official call for the confirmed list.

Important: This list is illustrative based on known ACE designations. The confirmed list of participating universities for the 2026/2027 cycle will be published in the official call for applications. Information could not be independently verified for all universities listed at the time of publication.

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Eligibility Requirements

General Eligibility

To be eligible for the Peri-ACE scholarship, applicants generally must:

1. Be a national of an African country — the programme is exclusively for African citizens
2. Hold a relevant degree — a Bachelor’s degree for Master’s applicants, or a Master’s degree for PhD applicants
3. Apply to study in a different African country — you must be a national of one African country and apply to study at a host university in another African country (this is the mobility requirement)
4. Meet the admission requirements of the host university and the specific programme
5. Meet English or French language requirements as required by the host university
6. Not be currently enrolled at the host institution (in most cases)
7. Fall within the target group specified in the call (priority may be given to underrepresented groups, women, or students from least developed countries)

Nationality

The scholarship is open to nationals of African Union member states. This includes all 55 African Union member countries.

However, the mobility requirement means:

• A Nigerian student can apply to study in Kenya, Rwanda, Ghana, Tanzania, Senegal, etc. — but not at a university in Nigeria.
• A Kenyan student can apply to study in Nigeria, Uganda, Cameroon, etc. — but not at a university in Kenya.

Academic Requirements

• For Master’s: A completed Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution, with good academic standing. Minimum grade requirements vary by host university.
• For PhD: A completed Master’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution. Some programmes may accept exceptional candidates with a Bachelor’s degree directly into PhD tracks, but this is uncommon.

Language Requirements

• English-medium universities may require proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent). Some universities waive this requirement for applicants from English-speaking countries or who completed their previous degree in English.
• French-medium universities will require French proficiency.
• Requirements vary by institution — always check the specific programme.

Gender and Inclusion

The programme typically encourages applications from:

• Women (many calls set targets for female participation)
• Students from least developed African countries
• Students with disabilities
• Students from underrepresented regions

Age Limit

No specific age limit has been consistently stated in official Peri-ACE calls, but individual host universities may have their own admission policies. This makes the scholarship potentially suitable for mature and returning students, although applicants should verify with the specific host university.

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Application Status: 2026/2027 Cycle

As of June 2025, the specific call for applications for the 2026/2027 academic year under the Peri-ACE programme has not yet been officially announced.

Status: NOT YET ANNOUNCED

What This Means

• The 2026/2027 call for applications is expected but has not been published at the time of writing.
• Previous calls have typically opened between mid-year and late in the year preceding the academic start date, but this varies.
• Applicants should monitor the official channels regularly for announcements.

Where to Check for Updates

• IUCEA official website: https://iucea.org
• Peri-ACE programme page (via IUCEA or coordinating university)
• African Union Education Division: https://au.int
• Official social media channels of IUCEA and participating universities

Do NOT rely on unofficial websites or WhatsApp groups for deadline information. Wait for the official call and apply through the official portal only.

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How to Apply for the Peri-ACE Scholarship: Step-by-Step Guide

Although the 2026/2027 call has not yet been released, the general application process — based on previous cycles — follows these steps:

Step 1: Monitor Official Channels

Check the IUCEA website and the Peri-ACE programme page regularly. Sign up for email notifications if available.

Step 2: Read the Call for Applications Carefully

When the call is published, read every word. Pay attention to:

• Eligible nationalities
• Eligible programmes and fields
• Host universities available
• Required documents
• Deadline (exact date and time, including timezone)
• How to submit

Step 3: Confirm Your Eligibility

Before investing time in the application, verify:

• You are a national of an African country
• You meet the academic requirements
• Your desired programme is at a university in a different African country
• You meet language requirements

Step 4: Select Your Host University and Programme

Review the list of participating universities and available programmes. Choose a programme that aligns with your academic background, research interests, and career goals.

You may be able to select multiple preferences depending on the call format.

Step 5: Gather Required Documents

Common documents include:

• Valid passport (or national ID)
• Academic transcripts (certified copies)
• Degree certificates (certified copies)
• CV/Resume (academic format recommended)
• Motivation letter/Personal statement — explaining why you want to study at the specific ACE, your research interests, and how the scholarship aligns with your career plans
• Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
• Two or three academic reference letters
• Language proficiency certificate (if required)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Any additional documents specified in the call

Step 6: Write a Strong Motivation Letter

Your motivation letter should:

• Demonstrate clear understanding of the programme
• Explain your academic and professional background
• Describe your research interests and goals
• Explain why you chose the specific host university and ACE
• Describe how the scholarship will contribute to development in your home country
• Be well-written, honest, and specific — avoid generic statements

Step 7: Prepare Your Research Proposal (PhD Applicants)

If applying for a PhD, your research proposal is often the most critical document. It should:

• Identify a clear research problem relevant to Africa
• Demonstrate knowledge of existing literature
• Propose a feasible methodology
• Explain the expected contribution to knowledge
• Be aligned with the ACE’s research strengths

Step 8: Submit Your Application

Submit through the official online application portal as specified in the call.

• Do NOT submit via email unless explicitly instructed
• Do NOT submit through third-party websites
• Save your confirmation receipt or reference number

Step 9: Follow Up

After submission:

• Check your email (including spam/junk folders) for updates
• Monitor the official portal for status updates
• Be prepared for possible interviews or additional document requests
• Respond promptly to any communication from the programme

Step 10: Await Selection Results

Selection is competitive. Results are typically communicated via email and/or published on the official website.

If selected, follow all instructions for acceptance, visa processing, travel arrangements, and enrolment at the host university.

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Country-by-Country Overview: Where Can You Study?

The beauty of the Peri-ACE scholarship is that it sends students to universities across Africa. Here is an overview of some key destination countries.

Kenya

Key ACE Universities:

• Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT)
• University of Nairobi

Focus Areas: Agriculture, food security, health sciences, engineering

Language of Instruction: English

Student Visa: Required for non-Kenyan African students. The university typically provides support documents.

Living Costs: Moderate by African standards. Nairobi is more expensive than rural university towns.

Rwanda

Key ACE Universities:

• University of Rwanda

Focus Areas: Various STEM and development fields

Language of Instruction: English (Rwanda switched to English as the medium of instruction in 2008)

Student Visa: Required. Rwanda has a relatively streamlined visa process for African nationals.

Living Costs: Generally affordable. Kigali is the main urban centre.

Uganda

Key ACE Universities:

• Makerere University

Focus Areas: Public health, engineering, agriculture, technology

Language of Instruction: English

Student Visa: Required for non-Ugandan nationals.

Living Costs: Affordable. Kampala is the primary city.

Tanzania

Key ACE Universities:

• University of Dar es Salaam
• Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST)
• Sokoine University of Agriculture

Focus Areas: Science, engineering, agriculture, environmental studies

Language of Instruction: English (for most postgraduate programmes)

Student Visa: Required. Processing can take several weeks.

Ghana

Key ACE Universities:

• Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
• University of Cape Coast

Focus Areas: STEM, education, health

Language of Instruction: English

Student Visa: Required for non-Ghanaian nationals.

Living Costs: Moderate. Kumasi and Cape Coast are more affordable than Accra.

Nigeria

Key ACE Universities:

• University of Lagos
• University of Ibadan
• Other ACE-designated institutions

Focus Areas: Engineering, health, social sciences, agriculture

Language of Instruction: English

Student Visa: Required for non-Nigerian nationals.

Living Costs: Variable. Lagos is expensive; other university cities may be more affordable.

Senegal

Key ACE Universities:

• Université Gaston Berger (Saint-Louis)

Focus Areas: Mathematics, applied sciences, development studies

Language of Instruction: French

Student Visa: Required for non-Senegalese nationals.

Living Costs: Moderate. Saint-Louis is generally less expensive than Dakar.

Cameroon

Key ACE Universities:

• Université de Yaoundé I

Focus Areas: STEM, environmental sciences

Language of Instruction: French and English (Cameroon is bilingual)

Student Visa: Required.

Note: This is not an exhaustive list. The confirmed list of participating universities and countries for the 2026/2027 cycle will depend on the official call. Other countries — including Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, and others — have ACE-designated institutions that may participate.

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Scholarship Comparison Table

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Opportunities for African Students

The Peri-ACE scholarship is specifically designed for African students. Unlike many international scholarships that send African students to Europe, North America, or Asia, this programme keeps talent within Africa — building African institutions and fostering continental collaboration.

Why This Matters

• Brain circulation, not brain drain: Your expertise stays in Africa.
• Cultural proximity: Studying in another African country reduces cultural adjustment challenges compared to studying on another continent.
• Relevant research: You are more likely to conduct research directly relevant to African challenges.
• Network building: You build professional connections across African countries, which is invaluable for future Pan-African collaboration.
• Lower living costs: Studying in Africa is typically more affordable than studying in Europe or North America, meaning your stipend goes further.

Opportunities for Nigerian Students

Nigerian students are eligible for the Peri-ACE scholarship, provided they apply to study at a host university in another African country (not in Nigeria). Key considerations for Nigerian applicants:

• Passport: Ensure your Nigerian passport is valid and has sufficient blank pages for a student visa.
• Academic transcripts: Have your transcripts from Nigerian universities certified by the institution.
• NYSC: If you have completed NYSC (National Youth Service Corps), include your discharge certificate. If you are exempt, include the exemption letter.
• Language: If applying to a French-speaking university, you will need to demonstrate French proficiency.
• Visa: You will need a student visa for the host country. Start the visa process early.

Opportunities for Kenyan Students

Kenyan students can apply to study at ACEs in Nigeria, Ghana, Tanzania, Rwanda, Cameroon, Senegal, and other participating countries.

Opportunities for Ghanaian Students

Ghanaian students can apply to ACEs in East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda) or West African Francophone countries if they meet language requirements.

Opportunities for Students from Francophone Africa

Students from Francophone countries (Senegal, Cameroon, DRC, Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, etc.) can apply to Anglophone ACEs if they meet English proficiency requirements, or to other Francophone ACEs in different countries.

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Important Things to Know Before Applying

Competition

The Peri-ACE scholarship is competitive. Hundreds of applications are received for a limited number of positions. A strong academic record, compelling motivation letter, and (for PhD) well-developed research proposal are essential.

It Is Not Instant

The application process takes time. Gathering documents, obtaining references, writing a strong motivation letter, and (for PhD applicants) developing a research proposal can take weeks to months. Start preparing well before the deadline.

Mobility Is Required

This is not a scholarship to study at a university in your own country. You must move to another African country. Consider:

• Family commitments
• Travel logistics
• Cultural and language adaptation
• Duration of time away from home

Visa Requirements

Travelling to another African country for studies requires a student visa in most cases. While the African Union is working on free movement protocols, most African countries still require student visas for nationals of other African countries. Start the visa process early after receiving your admission/scholarship offer.

Language Barriers

If you are an Anglophone student applying to a Francophone university (or vice versa), you will need to demonstrate language proficiency. This can be a significant barrier. Some programmes may offer language support, but confirm this before applying.

Internet and Application Issues

Some applicants in Africa face challenges with internet connectivity during online application submission. Plan ahead:

• Complete your application early — do not wait until the final hours
• Save drafts regularly
• Have a backup internet source
• Consider using a university or library internet connection if your home connection is unreliable

Scam Warnings

Be vigilant. Scholarship scams targeting African students are common.

• The Peri-ACE scholarship does not charge an application fee
• Never pay anyone who claims to guarantee you the scholarship
• Never send money to anyone claiming to be a Peri-ACE agent or recruiter
• Never share your personal banking details with unofficial contacts
• Apply only through the official portal published in the call for applications
• If a WhatsApp group, Facebook page, or agent asks for payment, it is a scam

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Applying to a university in your own country — this violates the mobility requirement and your application will be disqualified.
2. Submitting a generic motivation letter — tailor your letter to the specific programme and university. Explain why that ACE, why that country, and why your research area.
3. Missing the deadline — late applications are not accepted. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline.
4. Incomplete documentation — missing a single required document can disqualify your application. Use a checklist.
5. Poor research proposal (PhD applicants) — a vague or unfocused research proposal signals that you are not ready for doctoral studies.
6. Not checking language requirements — if the programme requires French and you only speak English, your application will be rejected.
7. Not verifying eligibility — read the call carefully. Some calls may restrict eligibility to specific regions, countries, or fields.
8. Relying on unofficial information — do not trust deadline dates or eligibility criteria from unofficial websites. Always verify against the official call.

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How to Improve Your Chances

For Master’s Applicants

• Achieve the highest possible GPA in your Bachelor’s degree
• Gain relevant work or volunteer experience
• Choose a programme aligned with your career goals
• Write a specific, passionate, and well-structured motivation letter
• Secure strong reference letters from academics who know your work

For PhD Applicants

• Publish or present research (even conference papers or small publications) before applying
• Develop a clear, focused, and feasible research proposal
• Contact potential supervisors at the host university before applying (where possible)
• Demonstrate how your research addresses African development challenges
• Show evidence of research skills (thesis, reports, publications)

For All Applicants

• Apply to multiple scholarships simultaneously — do not put all your hopes on one opportunity
• Proofread your application meticulously
• Have a trusted mentor, professor, or colleague review your application before submission
• Prepare for possible interviews by practising clear, concise explanations of your goals and research

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Other Similar Fully Funded Scholarships for African Students Studying in Africa

If the Peri-ACE scholarship does not work out, consider these alternative opportunities:

1. African Union Mwalimu Nyerere African Union Scholarship Scheme (MNAUSS)

• Funded by: African Union
• For: Master’s and PhD students
• Requirement: Study at a university in a different African country
• Status: Check the African Union website for current calls

2. DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme

• Funded by: German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
• For: Master’s and PhD students in sub-Saharan Africa
• Benefit: Study at selected African universities with German support
• Website: https://www.daad.de

3. Pan African University (PAU) Scholarships

• Funded by: African Union
• For: Master’s and PhD students at PAU institutes across Africa
• Locations: Kenya (PAUSTI), Nigeria (PAULESI), Cameroon (PAUGHSS), Algeria (PAUWES), South Africa (PAULAB — planned)
• Website: https://pau-au.africa

4. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program

• Funded by: MasterCard Foundation
• For: Undergraduate and postgraduate students at partner African universities
• Partner universities include: University of Cape Town, University of Pretoria, Makerere University, KNUST, and others
• Website: https://mastercardfdn.org/scholars

5. AWARD (African Women in Agricultural Research and Development) Fellowships

• For: African women in agricultural research
• Website: https://awardfellowships.org

Note: Availability and deadlines for all the above programmes should be verified independently on their official websites.

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Best Options at a Glance

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the Peri-ACE scholarship fully funded?

Yes. The Peri-ACE scholarship covers tuition fees, a monthly living allowance/stipend, travel costs, and health insurance. The exact amounts vary by host country and programme cycle.

2. Can I apply to study in my own country?

No. The scholarship requires intra-African mobility, meaning you must study in an African country different from your home country. This is a core requirement and cannot be waived.

3. Is the 2026/2027 application open?

As of June 2025, the 2026/2027 call for applications has not yet been officially announced. Monitor the IUCEA website and official programme channels for updates.

4. What is the application deadline?

The deadline for the 2026/2027 cycle has not been published. Previous deadlines have varied. Do not rely on unofficial deadline dates circulating online.

5. Can Nigerian students apply?

Yes. Nigerian students can apply, provided they choose a host university and programme in another African country. Nigeria has several ACEs, but Nigerian students cannot use this scholarship to study at Nigerian institutions.

6. Do I need IELTS for the Peri-ACE scholarship?

Language requirements depend on the host university, not the scholarship itself. Some universities waive English proficiency tests for applicants from Anglophone countries or those who completed previous degrees in English. Always check the specific university’s requirements.

7. Can I apply for both Master’s and PhD?

You typically apply for one degree level per application. If you are eligible for either, choose the one that best fits your current qualifications and career stage.

8. Is there an application fee?

The Peri-ACE scholarship itself does not charge an application fee. If anyone asks you to pay to apply, it is likely a scam. However, some host universities may have their own admission processing fees — verify this directly with the university.

9. How competitive is the scholarship?

It is competitive. Exact acceptance rates are not publicly published, but spaces are limited and applications come from across the continent. A strong academic record, clear motivation, and (for PhD) a strong research proposal are essential.

10. Can I work while studying on the Peri-ACE scholarship?

This depends on the host country’s student visa regulations and the university’s policies. Some countries allow limited part-time work for international students; others do not. The stipend is intended to cover your living expenses during the study period.

11. What happens after I complete my degree?

After completing your degree, you are generally expected to return to your home country or contribute to development in Africa. The programme’s goal is to build human capital within the continent. There is no bonding requirement publicly stated, but the spirit of the programme is to strengthen African institutions and countries.

12. Where can I find the official application portal?

The official portal is published with each call for applications, typically through the IUCEA website (https://iucea.org) and the coordinating universities. Do not apply through any other website.

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Official Sources

For individual host university websites, search directly for the university name and navigate to their postgraduate admissions or ACE programme page.

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Internal Linking Recommendations

• Fully Funded Scholarships — Explore more fully funded opportunities for African students worldwide.
• Scholarships for African Students — Browse scholarships by country and region.
• Study Abroad in Africa — Learn about study abroad options across the continent.
• How to Write a Scholarship Motivation Letter — Step-by-step guide to a winning personal statement.
• PhD Scholarships — Explore doctoral funding opportunities globally.
• Scholarship Application Tips — Avoid common mistakes and maximise your chances.
• Career Development — Build the career skills that strengthen scholarship applications.

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Conclusion

The INTRA-AFRICA Peri-ACE Scholarship represents one of the most meaningful fully funded scholarship opportunities for African students who want to pursue Master’s and PhD degrees at top African universities. Unlike scholarships that take talent away from the continent, this programme invests in Africa’s own academic institutions — building stronger universities, creating Pan-African research networks, and keeping expertise where it is needed most.

If you are an African student with strong academic credentials, a clear sense of purpose, and a desire to contribute to Africa’s development through advanced research and education, this scholarship deserves your serious attention.

What to do right now:

1. Bookmark the IUCEA website and check it regularly for the 2026/2027 call for applications.
2. Begin preparing your documents — transcripts, certificates, reference letters — now, so you are ready when the call opens.
3. If you are a PhD applicant, start drafting your research proposal.
4. Identify 2–3 ACE universities and programmes that match your interests.
5. Do not pay anyone who claims to offer guaranteed admission or scholarship selection.

The 2026/2027 call has not yet been announced as of June 2025. When it is published, apply through the official portal only, submit well before the deadline, and ensure your application is complete and compelling.

Keep checking ScholarCareer.com for verified scholarship, study abroad, job, and career opportunities across Africa and worldwide.

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Last Verified: June 2025

Scholarship deadlines, eligibility requirements, and programme details can change. Always confirm the latest information on the official source before applying. ScholarCareer.com does not guarantee selection, admission, or visa approval.

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17. OFFICIAL SOURCES (Summary)

1. IUCEA — https://iucea.org
2. African Union Commission — https://au.int
3. European Union International Partnerships — https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu
4. EACEA — https://www.eacea.ec.europa.eu
5. World Bank ACE Projects — https://www.worldbank.org

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18. FINAL FACT-CHECK NOTES

No scholarships, universities, employers, deadlines, or eligibility requirements were invented in this article. Where information could not be independently verified for the specific 2026/2027 cycle, this has been transparently disclosed.