ARC–GSSP Scholarship Programme 2026/2027
The ARC–GSSP Scholarship Programme represents a landmark educational initiative designed to empower outstanding African students pursuing postgraduate studies in actuarial science, risk management, insurance, and disaster risk financing. Jointly established by African Risk Capacity (ARC) Ltd. and the Global Shield Solutions Platform (GSSP)—managed by the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management—the programme aims to build critical expertise and strengthen climate and disaster resilience across the African continent.
Don’t Miss: Top Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students
Selected scholars receive a comprehensive funding package that includes full tuition coverage for up to two years, a living allowance, travel support, and direct access to valuable internships and professional mentorship. With the official application portal currently active and closing strictly on October 7, 2026, at 23:59 GMT, eligible candidates must submit their applications promptly. Below is a detailed breakdown of candidate eligibility, covered academic fields, financial benefits, and step-by-step application guidelines.
Also, Check Out: Top Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships in Europe
Understanding the ARC–GSSP Partnership
The ARC–GSSP Scholarship Programme was created as a strategic partnership between African Risk Capacity Ltd. (ARC Ltd.) and the Global Shield Solutions Platform (GSSP) to address critical skills gaps in climate risk management across Africa.
Also Read: How to Write a Personal Statement for Scholarship | Tips and Free Template
The GSSP is managed directly by the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management and receives financial contributions from Denmark, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Ireland, the European Commission, and the Vulnerable Twenty (V20) Group of Finance Ministers. By providing financial support and practical exposure, the programme aims to train high-level professionals capable of implementing continent-led risk finance solutions to combat climate-driven disasters.
ARC–GSSP Scholarship Programme Summary
| Scholarship Name ⇒ | ARC–GSSP Scholarship Programme |
| Host Country ⇒ | Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Senegal, South Africa |
| Study Level ⇒ | Master’s |
| Benefits ⇒ | Fully Funded — covers full tuition fees (up to 2 years), monthly living stipend, travel support, eligible academic expenses, internship placement, and career mentorship |
| Funded by ⇒ | ARC Ltd. & Global Shield Solutions Platform (GSSP / Frankfurt School of Finance & Management, backed by Denmark, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Ireland, EU Commission, V20) |
| Eligible Countries ⇒ | Citizens of all African Union Member States |
| Application Deadline ⇒ | October 07, 2026 — 23:59 GMT |
Financial Provisions and Academic Benefits
The programme offers comprehensive funding packages designed to cover all major costs associated with two-year postgraduate degree completion:
- Full Tuition Coverage: Direct payment of all required academic and university tuition fees for up to two years of full-time study.
- Living Allowance and Travel: Provision of a regular living stipend to cover daily expenses, alongside travel support for international transit to and from the university.
- Practical Internship Placement: Guaranteed access to apply for hands-on internship opportunities within ARC Ltd. and its broader regional partner networks.
- Mentorship & Career Development: One-on-one professional guidance, career growth resources, and leadership training throughout the postgraduate degree journey.
Admission Criteria and Applicant Qualifications
Candidates interested in applying for the 2026/2027 academic cycle must meet all requirements listed below:
- Nationality: Must hold citizenship in an African Union (AU) Member State.
- Academic Background: Must possess a recognized undergraduate degree in actuarial science, disaster risk management, mathematics, statistics, engineering, environmental management, or a closely related discipline.
- University Admission: Must have secured, or be actively in the process of securing, full-time admission to an approved postgraduate programme at one of the official partner universities.
- Service Commitment: Must sign a formal agreement committing to live and work within Africa for at least two years following graduation.
- Internship Obligation: Must agree to complete an internship during or immediately following the programme in line with ARC–GSSP guidelines.
Approved Partner Universities and Eligible Degrees
Funding is restricted exclusively to specific postgraduate degrees offered at selected African institutions:
- University of Cape Town (South Africa):
- Postgraduate Diploma in Actuarial Science
- École Nationale Supérieure de Statistique et d’Économie Appliquée – ENSEA (Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire):
- Master en Actuariat
- Master en Statistique Agricole
- Institut Interafricain de Formation en Assurance et en Gestion des Entreprises – IFAGE (Dakar, Sénégal):
- Master Professionnel en Actuariat (2 years)
- Master Professionnel en Assurance (2 years)
- University of Ghana (Accra, Ghana):
- Master of Science in Actuarial Science
- Master of Philosophy in Actuarial Science
How to Apply for the ARC–GSSP Scholarship Programme
Applying for the ARC–GSSP Scholarship Programme requires navigating two distinct administrative procedures:
- Verify Eligibility: Confirm that your nationality, degree background, and career plans align with the program criteria.
- Submit University Application: Apply directly to your chosen partner university for admission into an approved programme. Applying for the scholarship does not automatically enroll you at the partner institution.
- Submit Scholarship Portal Application: Fill in the official online ARC–GSSP application form and upload all requested supporting documents prior to the closing cutoff.
- Assessment & Shortlisting: Applications are screened against technical and academic standards. Shortlisted candidates proceed to university verification rounds.
- Interview Panel: Selected applicants participate in panel interviews conducted by the selection committee.
- Award Confirmation: The programme team sends successful candidates official offer letters detailing the award terms and next steps.
Application Timeline
The selection process runs according to the following schedule:
- 8 September 2026: Application portal officially opens.
- Late September 2026: Online candidate information session.
- 7 October 2026 (23:59 GMT): Application portal closes.
- Mid-November 2026: Conclusion of candidate panel interviews.
- Late November 2026: Issuance of official scholarship offer letters.
- December 2026: Completion of visa, travel arrangements, and university onboarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does applying for the scholarship grant me university admission?
No. You must submit a separate application directly to the partner university offering your selected degree programme and satisfy all of their institution-specific entry criteria.
Am I required to remain in Africa after completing my degree?
Yes. Scholars must sign a formal commitment agreeing to remain and work within an African nation for a minimum of two years immediately following graduation.
Which countries contribute funding to the GSSP?
The Global Shield Solutions Platform receives funding from Denmark, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Ireland, the European Commission, and the Vulnerable Twenty (V20) Group of Finance Ministers.
Will late scholarship applications be evaluated?
No. The online portal closes automatically at 23:59 GMT on October 07, 2026, and late submissions are disqualified without exception.
Disclaimer: All scholarship details, deadlines, award values, and eligibility criteria in this post were verified from official sources as of September 2026. Information is subject to change without notice. Always confirm the latest details directly on the official ARC–GSSP website before submitting your application. ScholarWaka is not affiliated with ARC Ltd., GSSP, or the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management.
Official Application Portal
Join ScholarWaka Community
Get the latest scholarship updates and study abroad opportunities before anyone else.
