Studying abroad offers African students the opportunity to access world-class education, build international networks, and gain exposure to different cultures and industries. However, the cost of tuition, travel, and living expenses can be a major barrier. Thankfully, there are numerous fully funded and partial scholarships designed specifically for African students who wish to pursue undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral studies abroad.
This guide outlines some of the most valuable scholarships available, their eligibility requirements, application tips, and how African students can increase their chances of being selected.
Why Scholarships for African Students Matter
- Access to quality education not always available locally
- Exposure to global career opportunities and research facilities
- Improved chances of employment in international organizations
- Promotion of academic excellence and leadership
- Building international networks that can benefit communities back home
Top Scholarships for African Students by Region
1. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
- Target group: Undergraduate and Master’s students from Sub-Saharan Africa
- Partner universities: University of Edinburgh, McGill, University of Cape Town, Sciences Po, and more
- Covers: Tuition, travel, accommodation, books, and personal expenses
- Focus: Leadership development and return-to-home-country goals
- Website: mastercardfoundation.org
2. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
- Target group: Outstanding emerging leaders from around the world
- Level: Master’s (1-year)
- Covers: Tuition, travel, monthly allowance
- Eligibility: Strong academic record, leadership potential, commitment to return to home country
- Website: chevening.org
3. DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships (Germany)
- Target group: Graduate and postgraduate African students
- Covers: Monthly stipend, travel, health insurance, research grants
- Partner institutions: African universities and German higher institutions
- Website: daad.de
4. Commonwealth Scholarships
- For: Citizens of developing Commonwealth countries
- Level: Master’s and PhD
- Covers: Full tuition, airfare, living allowance
- Focus: Development-oriented fields of study
- Website: cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk
5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (Europe)
- For: International students including African nationals
- Covers: Full tuition, monthly stipend, travel, and installation
- Programs: Offered jointly by two or more universities across Europe
- Website: erasmusplus.ec.europa.eu
6. African Union Scholarships
- Managed by: African Union Commission
- For: Africans interested in pursuing master’s and doctoral programs in priority development fields
- Location: African and foreign universities
- Website: au.int
7. VLIR-UOS Scholarships (Belgium)
- Target: Students from selected African countries
- Covers: Tuition, travel, allowance
- Fields: Development, agriculture, technology, health
- Website: vliruos.be
8. Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) Program
- For: Secondary school African students
- Covers: Tuition and accommodation for summer academic enrichment
- Focus: Academic excellence, global exposure, and leadership
- Website: globalscholars.yale.edu
9. Mandela Rhodes Scholarships
- For: African students pursuing postgraduate studies in South Africa
- Covers: Tuition, accommodation, meals, books, travel
- Focus: Academic excellence and leadership development
- Website: mandelarhodes.org
10. African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD)
- Target: Female African researchers in agriculture
- Covers: Training, mentorship, research grants
- Level: Professional development and postgraduate study
- Website: awardfellowships.org
Fields of Study Most Supported by These Scholarships
- Public Health
- Agriculture and Food Security
- Environmental Science
- Engineering and Technology
- Education
- Law and Human Rights
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
- Social Sciences and International Development
Eligibility Criteria
While each scholarship has its own requirements, most expect the following:
- Must be a citizen of an African country
- Strong academic performance
- Demonstrated leadership potential
- Clear plan to contribute to your home country
- Proof of English or other language proficiency
- Relevant degree certificates and transcripts
How to Apply for These Scholarships
1. Research Early
Some scholarships open up to a year in advance. Stay ahead by joining scholarship newsletters and alerts.
2. Gather Documents
Prepare:
- Academic transcripts
- Certificates and diplomas
- National ID or passport
- Letters of recommendation
- Motivation/Personal statement
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
3. Write a Powerful Personal Statement
Explain:
- Your background and aspirations
- Why you’re applying
- What impact you’ll make in your home country
- Why you’re a perfect fit for that scholarship
4. Secure Strong Recommendations
Reach out to academic mentors, professors, or community leaders early to write your reference letters.
5. Meet Language Requirements
Most programs in the UK, USA, Canada, and Europe require IELTS or TOEFL scores unless waived due to previous English instruction.
6. Submit Before the Deadline
Late submissions are typically not accepted. Always double-check time zones and submission formats.
Common Mistakes African Students Should Avoid
- Not tailoring your application to each scholarship
- Ignoring smaller or lesser-known scholarships
- Submitting generic or weak personal statements
- Not proof-reading application documents
- Waiting until the last minute to apply
Tips to Increase Your Chances
- Apply to multiple scholarships simultaneously
- Choose universities with a high acceptance rate for international students
- Volunteer or lead initiatives in your community
- Highlight your long-term commitment to Africa’s development
- Practice for interviews if shortlisted
Stories of Successful African Scholarship Recipients
Sarah from Kenya – Chevening Scholar
Sarah studied Public Health at the University of Leeds. She emphasized her passion for maternal health in Kenya and her work with local NGOs. Her leadership work helped her win the scholarship and secure a global internship.
Kwame from Ghana – DAAD Scholarship Winner
Kwame earned a Master’s in Renewable Energy in Germany. His academic excellence and involvement in solar energy projects in Accra strengthened his application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a fully funded scholarship with average grades?
Yes. Many scholarships focus on leadership, social impact, and motivation — not just GPA. Strong essays and recommendations can offset moderate academic performance.
Do I need to return home after my studies?
Many scholarships require recipients to return and contribute to their country for a period. Check the terms before applying.
Can I bring my family if I win a scholarship?
Some programs (like DAAD and Fulbright) allow dependents. However, not all scholarships offer financial support for family members.
Is there an age limit?
Some scholarships have age limits, especially at the postgraduate level. Always check eligibility.
Are there scholarships for undergraduate African students?
Yes — MasterCard Foundation, Commonwealth Shared Scholarships, and some university-specific grants support undergraduate study.
Final Thoughts: From Africa to the World
There are abundant opportunities for African students who dream of studying abroad. The key lies in early preparation, strategic applications, and persistence. Scholarships like MasterCard, Chevening, DAAD, and Commonwealth are transforming African lives and creating future leaders across sectors.
If you’re ready to take your education beyond borders and bring the skills back to Africa, now is the time to start applying. Your journey begins with one application — make it count.
