Pan African University (PAU) Fully Funded Masters and PhD Scholarships

The Pan African University (PAU) Scholarship 2026–2027 is now officially open, welcoming bright young Africans and members of the Diaspora who want to take their postgraduate studies to a higher level. This is one of the African Union’s most respected academic initiatives, built around a network of top postgraduate institutes that focus on research, innovation, leadership, and long-term development across the continent.

Each year, PAU looks for students who not only excel academically but also show promise, curiosity, and a genuine drive to contribute to Africa’s growth. If you are looking for a fully funded Masters or PhD program that can support you till you finish, this scholarship is one of the most reliable paths you can take.

In this article, you’ll get a clear breakdown of what the scholarship offers, who it’s for, the study fields available, and how you can prepare your application in a way that stands out.

Understanding the PAU Scholarship

The Pan African University was created by the African Union Heads of State to build a new generation of global-standard African scholars. Its institutes are hosted in top universities across East, West, Central, and North Africa, each offering specialised postgraduate programs designed to meet the continent’s needs.

Since 2014, PAU has awarded over 2,500 certificates to graduates from 50 African countries, making it one of the most culturally diverse academic environments you can study in. The scholarship doesn’t just cover your fees, it places you in an ecosystem built for research, innovation, leadership, and cross-continental collaboration.

PAU Institutes and Available Programs

PAU operates through four institutes, each specialising in targeted fields. Here’s where successful applicants will study:

1. PAUSTI — Kenya

Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology, and Innovation

Host University: Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Kenya

Note: PAUSTI will not admit new Masters students for 2026.

2. PAULESI — Nigeria

Pan African University Institute for Life and Earth Sciences (including Health and Agriculture)

Host University: University of Ibadan (UI), Nigeria

Masters (MSc) programs include:

• Geosciences (Mineral Exploration option)
• Geosciences (Petroleum Geosciences option)
• Health Sciences (Reproductive Health)
• Plant Breeding
• Environmental Management
• Medicinal Plant Research and Drug Development
• Sports Management and Policy Development
• Avian Medicine
• Veterinary Vaccine Production & Quality Control

3. PAUGHSS — Cameroon

Pan African University Institute for Governance, Humanities and Social Sciences

Host Universities: University of Yaoundé II and University of Buea

Masters (MA) programs include:

• Governance and Regional Integration
• Conference Interpreting
• Translation
• Transborder Languages and Intercultural Communication

(These programs require advanced proficiency in at least two AU official languages.)

4. PAUWES — Algeria

Pan African University Institute for Water and Energy Sciences (including Climate Change)

Host University: University of Tlemcen, Algeria

Masters (MSc) programs include:

• Water (Engineering option)
• Water (Policy option)
• Energy (Engineering option)
• Energy (Policy option)
• Climate Change (Engineering option)
• Climate Change (Policy option)

PhD Program:

• Water, Energy and Climate Change Nexus

Full Scholarship Benefits

The African Union Commission offers fully funded support, which typically includes:

• Full tuition coverage
• Monthly living allowances
• Accommodation support
• Medical insurance
• Travel support for non-local students
• Access to world-class laboratories and resources
• Leadership and entrepreneurship training

PAU also gives students access to a rich multicultural learning environment, plus a graduate network deeply connected across the continent.

Eligibility Requirements for the Masters Program

To apply for a PAU Masters degree, you must:

• Be 25 years or younger (men) or 28 years or younger (women).
• Hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least Second-Class Upper or equivalent.
• Submit certified copies of your undergraduate certificate and transcripts.
• Provide a valid passport or national ID.
• Upload a clear passport photograph.
• Provide a detailed CV.
• Submit one recommendation letter from a former university lecturer.
• List three reference lecturers (email + WhatsApp)—this is mandatory.
• Some applicants may be invited for a written or oral exam after pre-selection.

For interpreting and translation programs, applicants must show proof of strong proficiency in at least two AU official languages.

Eligibility Requirements for the PhD Program

PhD applicants must:

• Be 28 years or younger (men) or 30 years or younger (women).
• Hold a relevant Masters degree from PAU or a recognised university.
• Submit certified copies of relevant certificates and transcripts.
• Upload a valid passport or national ID.
• Provide a recent passport photo.
• Submit a detailed CV.
• Provide two recommendation letters from professors.
• Upload a 3–4-page Research Concept Note (topic, questions, objectives, significance).
• Provide names and contacts of three reference lecturers (mandatory).

Application Timeline

Call Opens: 15 November 2025

Deadline: 15 December 2025

Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Applying for the PAU Scholarship is straightforward, but you must follow each step carefully:

1. Visit the official application portal
2. Create your account and verify your email.
3. Select your institute and program of interest.
4. Fill out the online form with accurate personal and academic details.
5. Upload all required documents; ensure they are clear and properly labelled.
6. Review your application before submission.
7. Submit and download your confirmation page.
8. Monitor your email for updates, including possible assessments or interviews.

Tip: Prepare your documents early. Many applicants miss out due to incomplete files or last-minute uploads.

What Happens After You Apply

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or written assessments, depending on the program.

Final decisions usually come after thorough academic and reference checks.

Successful applicants will receive a formal admission letter and scholarship confirmation from the African Union Commission. You’ll then receive logistics information regarding travel, accommodation, startup allowances, and registration at your assigned PAU institute.

In Conclusion

The Pan African University Scholarship 2026–2027 is one of the most respected postgraduate opportunities available to African students today. Every year, it shapes a new community of thinkers, innovators, researchers, and leaders who go on to influence the continent’s development in powerful ways.

If you’re serious about postgraduate study, hungry for growth, and ready to contribute to Africa’s future, this is your moment. Start gathering your documents and apply as soon as the portal opens.

APPLY FOR THE PAN AFRICAN UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIPS