The African Development Bank (AfDB) Group has opened applications for the 2026 fully funded scholarship program at Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU) in China.
The AfDB–SHOU Scholarship is a comprehensive funding opportunity that covers full tuition, accommodation, meals, monthly stipends, travel costs, and professional training for qualified African candidates pursuing master’s and PhD programs in fisheries, aquaculture, and marine-related fields.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: China
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: African Countries
- Reward: Full Scholarship | Living Stipend | Travel Costs | Professional Training
- No IELTS Required
- Deadline: December 10, 2025
Scholarship Details
The AfDB, in partnership with Shanghai Ocean University, invites eligible African nationals to apply for the 2026 scholarship cycle. This initiative aligns with the Bank’s Ten-Year Strategy (2024–2033), aimed at strengthening Africa’s institutional and technical competence in sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and marine resource governance.
SHOU is internationally recognized for its leadership in marine sciences and maintains active collaborations with more than 40 global institutions, reinforcing its capacity to train specialists who will drive sustainable aquatic development across Africa. The AfDB, as the continent’s foremost development finance institution, continues to invest in high-level human capital to support inclusive growth and socio-economic transformation.
Eligibility Criteria
Masters Program
Applicants must:
- Be a national of an AfDB Regional Member Country (RMC) with experience in the fisheries or blue economy sector
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field, or any field with interest in fisheries or blue economy
- Demonstrate English proficiency with IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80
- Be under 35 years old at the time of application
- Maintain strong academic performance (GPA ≥3.0)
PhD Program
Applicants must:
- Be a national of an AfDB Regional Member Country (RMC) with experience in fisheries or blue economy
- Hold a master’s degree in Marine Science, Aquaculture, Economics, Environmental Policy, Development Studies, or related areas
- Demonstrate English proficiency with IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80
- Have research experience and at least one published paper
- Possess strong analytical, research, and policy development skills
- Demonstrate excellent communication and teamwork abilities, preferably with multicultural experience
Scholarship Benefits
Selected scholars will receive:
- Full tuition, accommodation, meals, and monthly stipends
- Access to world-class faculty, laboratories, and research facilities
- Specialized training in fisheries, aquaculture, marine science, and ocean governance
How to Apply
- Click HERE to access the application portal
- Submit your application online through the 2026 AfDB–Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU) Scholarship link
- Upload all required documents and complete all forms accurately
Important Notice:
- Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted
- Candidates must meet English proficiency requirements (IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80)
- Successful recipients must comply fully with SHOU’s academic and conduct regulations
- This scholarship does not confer employment status with the African Development Bank Group
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