Apply for partial scholarships for the MA in Human Rights Programme 2026/2027 at Addis Ababa University (AAU). Learn about eligibility, application steps, deadlines, and required documents.
The Center for Human Rights (CHR) at Addis Ababa University (AAU) has announced partial scholarship opportunities for students seeking admission into its prestigious Master of Arts (MA) in Human Rights Programme for the 2026/2027 academic year.
The scholarship initiative aims to support outstanding applicants committed to advancing human rights, social justice, equality, and the rule of law both in Ethiopia and internationally.
The programme combines rigorous academic training with practical human rights engagement, preparing graduates for impactful careers in government institutions, civil society organizations, international organizations, academia, and advocacy. Supported in part by the Embassy of Sweden in Addis Ababa, the scholarship reflects a shared commitment to strengthening human rights education and leadership.
Applications for both programme admission and the scholarship are now open according to the published schedule, and interested candidates are encouraged to begin preparing their applications early.
About the MA in Human Rights Programme
The MA in Human Rights at Addis Ababa University’s Center for Human Rights is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge of international and regional human rights systems, constitutional law, governance, gender equality, humanitarian law, and social justice.
The programme prepares graduates to understand complex human rights challenges while developing practical skills in research, policy analysis, advocacy, litigation, monitoring, and programme implementation.
Students benefit from an interdisciplinary curriculum that explores both theoretical and practical dimensions of human rights, enabling graduates to contribute meaningfully to protecting human dignity and promoting inclusive development.
Partial Scholarship Opportunity
To increase access to quality postgraduate education, the Center for Human Rights is offering partial scholarships for qualified applicants enrolling in the 2026/2027 intake.
The scholarships are intended to reduce financial barriers for deserving students who demonstrate strong academic potential and a genuine commitment to promoting justice and equality.
The Centre has also specifically encouraged female applicants to apply, reflecting its commitment to improving gender equity within higher education and the human rights profession.
Who Should Apply?
The programme is suitable for graduates who wish to build careers in:
- Human rights advocacy
- International development
- Public policy
- Law and justice
- Civil society organizations
- Government ministries
- International organizations
- Humanitarian agencies
- Research institutions
- Academia
Applicants who are passionate about advancing equality, protecting vulnerable communities, strengthening democratic governance, and promoting social justice are strongly encouraged to apply.
Scholarship Application Process
Candidates must complete several important steps in order to be considered for both admission and the scholarship.
Step 1: Register for the Graduate Admission Test (GAT)
Applicants must first register for the Graduate Admission Test (GAT) through the Addis Ababa University online portal.
Registration Period
- 6 June – 11 August 2026
The GAT is a mandatory requirement for admission into the master’s programme.
Graduate Admission Test Schedule
The examination will be conducted in two separate rounds.
First Round
Second Round
Applicants should select the examination period that aligns with their application timeline and ensure they register before the deadline.
Step 2: Apply for Admission
After completing the GAT registration, applicants must formally apply to the MA in Human Rights Programme through the Addis Ababa University Registrar using the university’s application portal.
Application Period
- 1 August – 18 August 2026
Prospective students are encouraged to complete this step promptly to avoid missing the admission deadline.
Step 3: Submit the Scholarship Application
Applicants seeking financial support must submit a separate scholarship application directly to the Center for Human Rights.
The scholarship application should include:
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcript
- Recommendation letter
Applications may be submitted either:
- By email to the Center for Human Rights
- Or in person
Scholarship Submission Deadline
Candidates should ensure that all supporting documents are complete and submitted before the deadline.
Documents Required
To strengthen their scholarship application, applicants should prepare:
- Completed scholarship application
- Personal motivation letter
- Official academic transcripts
- Recommendation letter
- Documents required by the university for admission
- Evidence of meeting programme admission requirements
Preparing these documents early can help applicants avoid last-minute delays.
Why Study Human Rights at Addis Ababa University?
Addis Ababa University is one of Africa’s leading higher education institutions and has played a significant role in advancing legal education, governance research, and public policy across the continent.
The Center for Human Rights provides students with opportunities to:
- Learn from experienced academics and practitioners
- Explore contemporary human rights challenges
- Conduct meaningful research
- Engage with policy and legal institutions
- Develop practical advocacy skills
- Build professional networks within Ethiopia and internationally
Graduates are equipped with knowledge and skills that are highly relevant to careers focused on justice, governance, democracy, and sustainable development.
Why This Scholarship Matters
Human rights professionals continue to play an increasingly important role in addressing issues such as:
- Gender equality
- Refugee protection
- Conflict prevention
- Constitutional governance
- Access to justice
- Children’s rights
- Minority rights
- Disability inclusion
- Environmental justice
- International humanitarian law
By supporting postgraduate education in these areas, the scholarship contributes to developing future leaders capable of promoting positive social change.
Female Candidates Strongly Encouraged
The Center for Human Rights has specifically encouraged female candidates to submit applications.
Increasing women’s participation in higher education and leadership within the human rights sector contributes to more inclusive policymaking and stronger advocacy for equality and social justice.
Qualified women interested in advancing their careers in law, policy, development, or human rights are therefore particularly encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity.
Important Dates at a Glance
Applicants should keep the following timeline in mind:
- GAT Registration: 6 June – 11 August 2026
- First GAT Examination: 27–31 July 2026
- Second GAT Examination: 13–14 August 2026
- Programme Application: 1–18 August 2026
- Scholarship Application Deadline: 30 August 2026
Submitting applications well before each deadline is recommended.
Final Thoughts
The Partial Scholarships for the MA in Human Rights Programme 2026/2027 at Addis Ababa University present an outstanding opportunity for aspiring human rights professionals to gain advanced academic training while receiving financial support.
With a strong curriculum, experienced faculty, and a commitment to promoting justice, equality, and human dignity, the programme offers an excellent platform for graduates seeking impactful careers across Africa and beyond.
Prospective applicants should begin preparing their Graduate Admission Test registration, university application, and scholarship documents as early as possible to maximize their chances of success.
Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) does not take ownership or credit for the opportunities shared on this platform. All opportunities are sourced from official announcements and external sources for informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying. Opportunities may be updated or changed by the providing organisations.
