Are PhD scholarships fully funded?

Almost all reputable PhDs in the US, UK, Germany, Australia and the EU are fully funded with tuition waivers, monthly stipend and research budget. Self-funded PhDs are rare and usually a sign to look elsewhere.

Which PhD programmes are open to Africans?

Commonwealth PhD, DAAD doctoral programmes, Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, Australian RTP, US assistantships, Chinese Government Scholarships and the Wellcome Trust all routinely fund African PhD researchers.

How long is a PhD abroad?

3–4 years in the UK, Australia and most of Europe; 4–6 years in the US (including coursework); 3 years for most German structured PhDs.

Do I need a Masters before a PhD?

Yes in the UK, Germany and Australia. The US allows direct entry from a Bachelors into a PhD, which then includes a Masters along the way.

PhD & Research

PhD scholarships for African researchers

Most reputable PhDs in the US, UK, Germany, Australia and EU are fully funded. The list below tracks live doctoral opportunities open to African researchers.

Major funders include Commonwealth PhD Scholarships, DAAD doctoral programmes, Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, the Australian Research Training Program (RTP), Wellcome Trust, and US graduate assistantships.

New to doctoral applications? Build your runway with our 12-month scholarship application timeline, sharpen your research statement using our scholarship essay guide, and see how to secure a fully funded PhD with stipend.

Browse all scholarships Application glossary