South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA)

About SAIIA

The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) is an independent public policy think tank. It was founded in 1934 and works from Johannesburg, with a branch in the Western Cape. Its stated aim is a well governed, peaceful, economically sustainable and globally engaged Africa.

SAIIA runs research programmes on foreign policy, economic diplomacy, governance, natural resources, climate change and global governance, including the G20. It also hosts projects such as the China-Africa Toolkit and the Africa Youth Portal. Because the institute trains young analysts as well as publishing research, it treats student support as part of its core work.

Its work reaches beyond the lecture hall. SAIIA publishes policy briefs and hosts public events, so scholars see how research turns into advice for decision makers.

How SAIIA supports students

SAIIA offers funding through the KAS-SAIIA Scholarship, which it runs with the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS). KAS is a German political foundation named after the first chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany. Since 1999, KAS has funded an internship programme that SAIIA delivers together with the University of the Witwatersrand.

The award is a master's scholarship, not an undergraduate bursary. Successful candidates receive a full bursary for tuition fees and a monthly stipend for living costs and accommodation. In return, scholars work at SAIIA as interns while they study. The internship runs from 1 February to 30 November each year. During that time, scholars receive mentorship and build research, writing and presentation skills.

Two study routes exist. In Johannesburg, scholars enrol at Wits for a coursework master's in a field such as international relations, development studies, political science, economics, law or journalism. In Cape Town, they must be admitted to a political science master's at the University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University or the University of the Western Cape.

What to know before applying

Applicants must meet the entry requirements of the university they choose. They also may not be older than 30. In addition, anyone who has already finished the first year of a master's programme is not eligible. You may apply to Johannesburg or Cape Town, but not both, and dual applications are not considered.

Applications for the 2027 intake opened on 29 July 2026 and closed on 1 September 2026. Dates move from year to year, so check the SAIIA website for the current call. Applicants apply through an online form, and questions go to the internships team at SAIIA.

Earlier information suggests the programme carries no post-study work-back contract. However, the internship itself is a real working commitment, so read the call carefully. If you want a career in foreign policy, diplomacy or research, the KAS-SAIIA Scholarship gives funding and practical experience in one package.