KAS-SAIIA Scholarship and Internship Programme 2027: Fully Funded Master’s Opportunity for Future African Leaders
Applications are now open for the 2027 KAS-SAIIA Scholarship and Internship Programme. Successful candidates receive full tuition funding, a monthly stipend, and practical work experience while completing a master’s degree in South Africa. Apply by 1 September 2026.
Applications Open for the 2027 KAS-SAIIA Scholarship and Internship Programme
The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), in partnership with the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), has officially opened applications for the highly regarded 2027 KAS-SAIIA Scholarship and Internship Programme. This unique opportunity combines fully funded postgraduate study with hands-on policy research experience, creating a powerful pathway for young graduates aspiring to careers in international affairs, governance, public policy, development, economics, journalism, and related fields.
For more than two decades, the programme has helped shape some of South Africa’s emerging leaders, researchers, policymakers, and analysts. Through a combination of academic development, mentorship, and practical workplace exposure, scholars gain the skills and experience necessary to make meaningful contributions in both public and private sectors.
Applications opened on 29 July 2026 and will close on 1 September 2026.
About the KAS-SAIIA Scholarship Programme
The programme is funded by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), a German political foundation named after the first Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany. KAS operates globally and is committed to promoting democracy, political dialogue, leadership development, and civic education.
Since 1999, KAS has supported a scholarship and internship programme administered by SAIIA in partnership with South African universities. The initiative allows successful applicants to pursue a master’s degree while simultaneously working within SAIIA’s research environment.
Unlike traditional scholarship programmes that focus solely on academic study, the KAS-SAIIA programme combines classroom learning with practical policy and research experience, giving participants a significant advantage when entering the job market.
Study and Work at the Same Time
One of the most attractive features of the programme is its integrated approach to academic and professional development.
Successful candidates will:
- Enrol in a qualifying master’s degree programme.
- Work as interns at SAIIA during the scholarship period.
- Receive mentorship from experienced researchers and policy experts.
- Participate in research projects and policy discussions.
- Develop analytical, writing, presentation, and organisational skills.
The internship component runs annually from 1 February to 30 November, allowing scholars to gain practical workplace experience while advancing their academic studies.
Scholarship Benefits
The KAS-SAIIA Scholarship Programme offers substantial support to selected candidates, including:
Full Tuition Funding
Successful applicants receive a full bursary covering their university tuition fees.
Monthly Stipend
In addition to tuition support, scholars receive a monthly stipend to help cover:
- Accommodation
- Living expenses
- Daily costs associated with postgraduate study
This financial support allows students to focus on their academic and professional development without the burden of significant financial pressures.
Professional Development
Scholars benefit from:
- Structured mentorship
- Policy research exposure
- Academic guidance
- Networking opportunities
- Professional skills development
Many former KAS-SAIIA scholars have gone on to occupy influential positions in government, diplomacy, academia, media, civil society, and the private sector.
Study Areas Supported
The programme supports students pursuing coursework-based master’s degrees in fields such as:
- International Relations
- Development Studies
- Political Science
- Economics
- Law
- Journalism
- Public Policy
- Governance
- Related Humanities and Social Science disciplines
These fields align closely with SAIIA’s research priorities and contribute to addressing some of Africa’s most pressing governance, development, and international affairs challenges.
ALSO READ
- Fidelity Services Group Intern Opportunity 2026
- CHIETA Internship Programme 2026: Apply for 24-Month Paid Internship Opportunities
- BCG Graduate Programme 2026
- Premier Marketing Graduate Opportunity 2026
- Amcor Human Resource Internship Programme 2026: 12-Month Internship Opportunity – Apply by 30 July 2026
Johannesburg and Cape Town Opportunities
Applicants must choose between the Johannesburg and Cape Town streams of the programme.
Johannesburg Programme
The Johannesburg office focuses primarily on research themes such as:
- Economic resilience
- African diplomacy
- Governance
- International relations
- Public policy
Candidates applying for Johannesburg-based scholarships should carefully consider how their academic interests align with these research areas.
Cape Town Programme
The Cape Town office focuses on:
- Climate change
- Futures thinking
- Sustainability
- Strategic foresight
Applicants interested in these topics may find the Cape Town programme particularly attractive.
Importantly, candidates must apply to either Johannesburg or Cape Town, as dual applications will not be considered.
University Requirements
Applicants must first qualify for admission into an eligible master’s programme.
For Cape Town-based scholarships, applicants must apply to one of the following institutions:
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Stellenbosch University
- University of the Western Cape (UWC)
Candidates whose university admission status is still pending at the application deadline may still apply. They are advised to explain their situation in their cover letter.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the programme, applicants must:
- Meet the admission requirements for a master’s degree at the relevant university.
- Be 30 years old or younger.
- Apply for an eligible coursework-based master’s programme.
- Demonstrate strong academic potential.
- Show an interest in public policy, governance, development, international affairs, or related fields.
Students who have already completed the first year of their master’s degree are not eligible for the programme.
Why This Programme Stands Out
The KAS-SAIIA Scholarship Programme has built an impressive reputation over the years because of its emphasis on producing highly skilled researchers and future leaders.
Participants are encouraged to:
- Co-author research articles and policy papers.
- Contribute to SAIIA publications.
- Present research findings.
- Strengthen public speaking skills.
- Develop project management capabilities.
- Build professional networks across Africa and internationally.
The programme’s output-focused model ensures that scholars graduate with both academic qualifications and practical experience.
How to Apply
Applications for the 2027 intake opened on 29 July 2026.
Interested candidates must complete the official online application form provided by SAIIA.
Applicants are encouraged to carefully review SAIIA’s research programmes and choose the location that best aligns with their academic interests and long-term career goals.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 29 July 2026
- Application Deadline: 1 September 2026
- Internship Period: 1 February – 30 November annually
Final Thoughts
The 2027 KAS-SAIIA Scholarship and Internship Programme represents one of South Africa’s most prestigious opportunities for aspiring researchers, policy analysts, journalists, economists, governance specialists, and future leaders.
By combining a fully funded master’s degree with practical internship experience, professional mentorship, and policy research exposure, the programme equips participants with the tools needed to succeed in highly competitive fields.
Graduates with strong academic records and a passion for shaping Africa’s future are encouraged to submit their applications before 1 September 2026 and take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to study, research, and contribute to meaningful policy work.
APPLY VIA THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE
Get the latest jobs, internships, bursaries, and remote opportunities delivered instantly.
Follow our channels and never miss an update.
Join WhatsApp Channel
