Clarification on EAC-SMS 2025 Scholarship

The East African Community Student Mobility Scholarship Scheme (EAC-SMS) is now officially launched for the 2025/2026 academic year. This regional initiative, led by the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), offers fully funded study opportunities including tuition, travel, insurance, and research for eligible students from EAC member states to study in another Partner State. Applicants are responsible for accommodation and living expenses. This article explains who can apply, what INES-Ruhengeri offers under the scheme, and how to submit a complete application.

What is the EAC-SMS?

The EAC-SMS is a regional initiative promoting academic mobility within the East African Community. It supports students in pursuing degrees at universities outside their country of residence, strengthening regional integration and cross-cultural understanding.

 Who is Eligible to Apply?

To qualify for the EAC-SMS 2025:

• You must be a citizen and resident of an EAC partner state other than Rwanda (if applying to INES).
• You must apply to a university outside your country of citizenship.
• You must meet the academic requirements for the program of choice.
• Age limits: Undergraduate (below 22 years), Master’s (below 35), PhD (below 45).
• Additional qualifications such as work experience are considered for PhD applicants.

 Studying at INES-Ruhengeri through EAC-SMS

INES-Ruhengeri is pleased to offer the following EAC-SMS approved programs:

 Bachelor’s Degree Programs:

• Land Survey
• Statistics Applied to Economics
• Accounting
• Rural Development Economics
• Land Management and Valuation
• Information Science and Library Management
• Food Biotechnology

 Master’s Degree Programs:

• MSc in Geo-Informatics
• MSc in Food Science and Technology
• MSc in Biomedical Laboratory Science

⏰ Important Deadlines:

• Admission to INES-Ruhengeri: 15 June 2025 (Midnight Kigali Time)
• Scholarship Application to IUCEA: 30 June 2025 (Midnight EAT)

 What Does the Scholarship Include?

• IUCEA: Covers medical insurance, transport, and research support (Master’s & PhD)
• Host Universities: Waive tuition and examination fees
• Students: Are responsible for accommodation, meals, and daily living expenses

✉️ How to Apply:

1. Apply for admission to INES-Ruhengeri: https://www.ines.ac.rw
2. Apply for the scholarship: Download form
3. Email your application and supporting documents to: eacsms@iucea.org and execsecretary@iucea.org
• Subject line: Your Name, EAC-SMS Application, June 2025

 Documents Required Include:

• Motivation letter
• Updated CV
• Certified academic transcripts & certificates
• University application form
• Passport-sized photo
• Proof of nationality and residency
• Any other required documents (e.g., reference letters, medical report)

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can current INES students apply for the EAC-SMS? A: No. The scholarship is strictly for new applicants studying in a different EAC country than their own.

Q: Are Rwandan nationals eligible for INES under this scheme? A: No. Rwandan applicants must apply to other EAC universities. Click here to view options.

Q: Where do I apply?

• For INES programs: Apply here
• For the scholarship: Download form

 A Regional Vision with Local Impact

At INES-Ruhengeri, we don’t just teach, we connect, innovate, and collaborate for a stronger East African future. The EAC-SMS is more than a financial opportunity; it’s a regional commitment to shared progress.

If you're eligible and ready to grow beyond borders, this is your opportunity, apply now and take the first step toward your regional academic journey.