AfDB Shanghai Ocean University Scholarship 2026
African Development Bank (AfDB) & Shanghai Ocean University
Fully Funded 2026 Scholarship for Africans
Masters & Ph.D. Programs in Marine Science & Aquaculture
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) and Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU) are pleased to announce the call for applications for the 2026 SHOU Scholarship Programs. This is a prestigious opportunity for qualified African nationals to pursue fully sponsored graduate studies in China.
SHOU is a world-class, research-oriented university specializing in ocean governance, marine science, and aquaculture. By partnering with the AfDB, this program aims to strengthen Africa’s capacity in the Blue Economy sector.
💰 Scholarship Coverage & Benefits
For all successful candidates, the scholarship covers:
- ✅ Full Tuition Fees (Waived)
- ✅ Free Accommodation (On Campus)
- ✅ Monthly Living Stipend
- ✅ Comprehensive Medical Insurance
- ✅ Access to state-of-the-art research facilities
Note: Flight tickets and visa fees are the responsibility of the candidate.
Available Programs & Fields of Study
The scholarship is open for both Master’s and Ph.D. degrees in the following specialized colleges:
| College / Major | Master’s | Ph.D. |
|---|---|---|
| Aquaculture | ✔ Available | ✔ Available |
| Aquatic Biology | ✔ Available | ✔ Available |
| Fishing Science | ✔ Available | ✔ Available |
| Marine Science | ✔ Available | ✔ Available |
| Fishery Economics & Mgmt | ✔ Available | ✔ Available |
| Food Science & Engineering | ✔ Available | ✔ Available |
| Mechanical Engineering | ✔ Available | ✖ N/A |
| Applied Economics (Chinese) | ✔ Available | ✖ N/A |
| Marine Engineering & Info | ✖ N/A | ✔ Available |
🌞 Summer School Program
A special 3-week intensive program is also available: “Marine Cultivation and Fisheries for Internationals.” This includes cultural immersion and academic training.
Eligibility Criteria
🎓 For Master’s Applicants
- Be a national of an AfDB Regional Member Country.
- Age: Under 35 years old.
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in a related field (or interest in Blue Economy).
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80.
- Outstanding academic performance (GPA ≥ 3.0).
🎓 For Ph.D. Applicants
- Be a national of an AfDB Regional Member Country.
- Education: Master’s degree in Marine Science, Economics, Environmental Policy, or related field.
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80.
- Research: Must have published at least 1 academic paper.
- Experience in multicultural environments.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit an online application through the official AfDB-SHOU Scholarship portal.
Required Documents likely include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic Transcripts & Certificates
- English Proficiency Proof
- Research Proposal (for PhD)
- Passport Copy

