Hey future changemakers! Are you dreaming of diving deep into the world of Political Science at a top South African university? Then listen up, because the KAS-SAIIA Scholarship Bursary for 2026 could be your golden ticket!
This incredible bursary program is a collaboration between the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), a German political foundation championing democracy, and the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), a leading research institute focusing on international issues. Together, they’re offering an amazing opportunity for postgraduate students passionate about Political Science to pursue their Master’s degree with full support. It’s not just about funding; it’s about shaping future leaders who can make a real impact!
Who Can Apply?
Ready to see if you qualify? Here’s what you need to know:
- You must be 30 years old or younger.
- You need to be planning to study a Master’s programme within the Political Science Department at one of these prestigious universities: University of Cape Town (UCT), Stellenbosch University (SU), University of the Western Cape (UWC), or the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits).
- You must meet all the minimum entry requirements for a Master’s degree at your chosen university.
- Important: You can only apply to either SAIIA’s Johannesburg office (focusing on Economic Resilience and African Diplomacy and Governance) or Cape Town office (focusing on Futures and Climate Change), not both!
What Does It Cover?
This isn’t just a partial payment; it’s a comprehensive package designed to let you focus entirely on your studies and research! If you’re successful, the KAS-SAIIA Scholarship Bursary for 2026 will cover:
- Your full tuition fees for your Master’s programme.
- A monthly stipend to help with your living costs and accommodation.
Beyond the financial support, you’ll also benefit from mentorship, develop your research, writing, and methodological skills, and even get the chance to co-author articles for SAIIA publications. This program is truly about developing well-rounded, impactful leaders!
How to Apply?
Feeling excited? Here’s how you can submit your application and potentially kickstart your incredible journey:
- Head over to the official online application portal: KAS-SAIIA Scholarship Application 2026
- Make sure you have clear copies of all these documents ready, as your application won’t be considered without them:
- A support or endorsement letter from a current lecturer for enrollment into a Master’s Programme.
- Your detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV), including at least one additional written reference.
- Your full academic record to date.
- Two samples of your own academic writing.
- A strong motivational letter (maximum 1 page/750 words) explaining why you’re applying and why you’re the perfect fit for this scholarship.
- Your research area of interest and/or a potential topic for your Master’s Dissertation (maximum 100 words).
- Pro Tip: If your university application status is still pending, don’t sweat it! You can still submit your bursary application – just mention this in your cover letter.
Don’t miss out! The deadline for applications is 26 September 2025. Make sure you apply well before this date to ensure your application is considered.
Got questions? Feel free to reach out to the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) directly:
- Tel: 011 339 2021
- Email: info@saiia.org.za
If shaping policy and making a global difference through political science sounds like your calling, then this KAS-SAIIA Scholarship Bursary is definitely worth pursuing! Don’t hesitate – apply now and remember to explore more amazing funding opportunities right here on Bursaries Room!
