Best Scholarships for African Students Studying Abroad
Quick Answer / Key Takeaways
- Several major global scholarship programs prioritize African students, including Mastercard Foundation Scholars, Chevening, Fulbright, DAAD, Erasmus Mundus, Gates Cambridge, Rhodes, Commonwealth Scholarships, Australia Awards, MEXT, and the Chinese Government Scholarship.
- Most require a strong academic record, leadership potential, and a clear plan to contribute to your home country after graduation.
- Application deadlines vary widely, often between October and February for the following academic year—always check official program sites for current windows.
- Never pay to apply for legitimate scholarships; beware of scams and verify programs through official channels.
- Online degree scholarships and accredited distance learning options are increasingly available, but check for recognized institutional accreditation.
- Applying to multiple scholarships and tailoring your application to each program’s priorities improves your chances.
- Use trusted portals like Scholarships.com, Fastweb, Bold.org, and ScholarshipPortal to find more opportunities.
Who Is This For / When Do You Need It?
This guide is for African students seeking to pursue undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral studies abroad, whether in North America, Europe, Asia, or Australia. It is particularly relevant for those with strong academic records, demonstrated leadership, and a commitment to using their education to benefit their home communities or countries. If you are considering studying overseas and are concerned about tuition, living expenses, or finding reputable programs, these scholarships can make international education accessible and affordable.
You should start researching scholarships at least 12-18 months before your intended start date, as deadlines and application requirements can be demanding. This is especially important if you are targeting competitive or government-funded scholarships, which often require extensive documentation, recommendations, and evidence of community impact. If you are interested in online or distance learning options, some scholarships apply to these as well, but always confirm eligibility and accreditor recognition before committing.
Best Options
| Programme | Funder | Level | Coverage | Eligibility | Deadline window |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mastercard Foundation Scholars | Mastercard Foundation & Partner Universities | Bachelor’s, Master’s | Full tuition, living, travel, support | African citizens, academic merit, leadership | Varies by partner (Sept–Feb typical) |
| Chevening Scholarships | UK Government | Master’s | Full tuition, stipend, travel, visa | Citizens of eligible countries, 2+ years’ work experience | Aug–Nov (for next year) |
| Fulbright Foreign Student Program | US Government | Master’s, PhD | Full or partial tuition, travel, stipend, insurance | Varies by country; academic merit, leadership | Feb–Oct (varies by country) |
| DAAD Scholarships | German Government | Master’s, PhD | Tuition, stipend, travel, insurance | Developing countries, academic merit | Aug–Dec |
| Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters | EU / Erasmus+ | Master’s | Tuition, stipend, travel | All nationalities, academic merit | Oct–Jan |
| Gates Cambridge Scholarships | Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation | Master’s, PhD | Full tuition, stipend, travel, visa | Non-UK citizens, academic excellence | Sept–Dec |
| Rhodes Scholarships | Rhodes Trust | Master’s, DPhil | Full tuition, stipend, travel | Selected African countries, academic & leadership | June–Oct |
| Commonwealth Scholarships | UK Government | Master’s, PhD | Tuition, stipend, travel, thesis grant | Commonwealth countries, need & merit | Sept–Dec |
| Australia Awards | Australian Government | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | Full tuition, travel, stipend, insurance | Selected African countries | Feb–May |
| MEXT Scholarship | Japanese Government | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | Tuition, monthly stipend, travel | Academic merit, age limits | April–May |
| Chinese Government Scholarship | Chinese Government | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | Tuition, stipend, accommodation, insurance | Non-Chinese citizens, academic merit | Nov–April |
1. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
What It Includes / How It Works
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program partners with over 40 universities worldwide, including institutions in Africa, North America, and Europe, to provide comprehensive scholarships for academically talented yet economically disadvantaged African students. The program covers full tuition, accommodation, travel, books, and a living stipend, as well as leadership development and mentorship. Scholars are expected to demonstrate a commitment to giving back to their communities after graduation, with many universities also offering support for internships, networking, and career development.
Key Features
- Full financial support for undergraduate and master’s degrees
- Leadership and entrepreneurship training
- Community service and alumni networks
- Focus on students committed to positive social change in Africa
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Comprehensive support; strong alumni network; high impact on leadership skills; excellent for students with financial need
- Cons: Highly competitive; must commit to community impact; eligibility limited to specific partner universities and countries
Cost
There is no cost to apply. The scholarship is fully funded by the Mastercard Foundation and partner institutions.
Visit Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
2. Chevening Scholarships
What It Includes / How It Works
Chevening Scholarships, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, offer fully funded one-year master’s degrees at any UK university. Applicants must have at least two years of work experience and demonstrate leadership potential and a clear plan for contributing to their home country. The scholarship covers tuition, travel, visa costs, and a monthly stipend.
Key Features
- One-year master’s programs at any UK university
- Fully funded, including travel and visa
- Emphasis on leadership and post-study impact
- Extensive global and African alumni network
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Prestigious; all UK universities eligible; strong focus on leadership; excellent networking
- Cons: Only for master’s level; work experience required; expectation to return home after studies
Cost
No application fee. The scholarship covers all major expenses.
3. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
What It Includes / How It Works
The Fulbright Program, funded by the US Government, enables students from over 155 countries (including many in Africa) to pursue graduate studies and research in the United States. The award typically covers tuition, airfare, living stipend, and health insurance. Applicants are selected for academic merit, leadership, and their ability to promote cross-cultural understanding, with many country-specific requirements and quotas.
Key Features
- Master’s and PhD programs at accredited US institutions
- Full or partial funding depending on award
- Professional development and cultural exchange
- Strong alumni network and support
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Prestigious; wide range of fields; strong support; encourages cross-cultural engagement
- Cons: Highly competitive; country quotas may limit availability; complex application process
Cost
Application is free and handled through US embassies or Fulbright Commissions. Award is fully or partially funded.
Visit Fulbright Foreign Student Program
4. DAAD Scholarships
What It Includes / How It Works
The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) offers a wide range of scholarships for African students to study in Germany at master’s and doctoral levels. Funding typically covers tuition (where applicable), monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel allowance. Many programs focus on development-related fields, and there are specific initiatives for sub-Saharan Africa.
Key Features
- Master’s and PhD programs in Germany
- Full or partial funding; tailored for developing countries
- Focus on development, engineering, and sciences
- German language support for some programs
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Generous support; wide subject range; strong research infrastructure
- Cons: German language skills required for some courses; complex application documentation
Cost
Applications are free. The DAAD funds most costs, but some living expenses may not be fully covered depending on the program.
5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters
What It Includes / How It Works
Erasmus Mundus offers joint master’s degrees in partnership with multiple European universities, open to students from all nationalities, including Africa. The scholarship covers participation costs, a monthly stipend, and travel contributions. Students study in at least two countries and benefit from exposure to diverse academic environments.
Key Features
- Joint degrees from European partner universities
- Full funding for tuition, living, and travel
- International, multidisciplinary experience
- Wide range of fields
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Study in multiple countries; international networks; generous stipend
- Cons: Only for master’s; highly competitive; requires mobility
Cost
No application fee. The scholarship covers all major expenses.
Visit Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters
6. Gates Cambridge Scholarships
What It Includes / How It Works
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship provides full-cost awards for outstanding non-UK students to pursue full-time postgraduate degrees at the University of Cambridge. The selection emphasizes academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to improving the lives of others. Funding includes tuition, maintenance allowance, travel, and some family support.
Key Features
- All postgraduate degrees at Cambridge
- Comprehensive funding; includes some family support
- Focus on leadership and societal impact
- Rigorous selection process
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Prestigious; generous support; strong alumni network
- Cons: Only for Cambridge; very competitive; requires evidence of impact
Cost
No application fee. The scholarship funds all costs for successful applicants.
Visit Gates Cambridge Scholarships
7. Rhodes Scholarships
What It Includes / How It Works
The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the oldest and most prestigious international scholarship programs, offering full funding for postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. Africa-specific constituencies include Southern Africa, West Africa, East Africa, and more. Selection emphasizes academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to service.
Key Features
- Full tuition, living stipend, and travel to Oxford
- Postgraduate study at any Oxford college
- Emphasis on leadership and service
- Active alumni and mentorship programs
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Prestigious; full funding; global network; strong leadership focus
- Cons: Limited to certain African countries; intense competition; restricted to Oxford
Cost
Application is free. The scholarship covers all major expenses.
8. Commonwealth Scholarships
What It Includes / How It Works
Commonwealth Scholarships, funded by the UK government, support students from Commonwealth countries (including many in Africa) for master’s and doctoral studies in the UK. Awards cover tuition, travel, living allowance, and some research or thesis costs. Selection is based on academic merit and the potential to contribute to development in the home country.
Key Features
- Master’s and PhD programs at UK universities
- Full or partial funding including travel and research costs
- Focus on development impact
- Open to all Commonwealth countries
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Generous funding; many eligible universities; strong alumni support
- Cons: Requires demonstration of development impact; application process can be complex
Cost
No application fee. The scholarship covers most major costs.
Visit Commonwealth Scholarships
9. Australia Awards
What It Includes / How It Works
Australia Awards, funded by the Australian government, offer scholarships to students from selected African countries for full-time undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees at participating Australian universities. The awards cover tuition, travel, establishment allowance, living expenses, and health insurance. Scholars are expected to return home and contribute to development after graduation.
Key Features
- All levels of degree study at Australian universities
- Full financial support including living and travel
- Focus on development impact and leadership
- Pre-departure training and alumni engagement
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Comprehensive coverage; strong support structure; career development opportunities
- Cons: Only for certain countries and fields; mandatory return requirement
Cost
No application fee. The scholarship is fully funded.
10. MEXT (Japanese Government) Scholarship
What It Includes / How It Works
The MEXT Scholarship enables international students, including Africans, to study at Japanese universities for bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees. The scholarship covers tuition, monthly stipend, and travel to and from Japan. Applicants often apply through Japanese embassies or directly to universities, with selection based on academic records and sometimes Japanese language ability.
Key Features
- All degree levels at Japanese universities
- Full tuition, monthly stipend, and round-trip airfare
- Some programs require Japanese language proficiency
- Embassy and university application routes
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Comprehensive funding; diverse program options; cultural immersion
- Cons: Language barrier for non-English programs; lengthy application process
Cost
No application fee. The scholarship covers all major expenses.
Visit MEXT (Japanese Government) Scholarship
11. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
What It Includes / How It Works
The Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) offers full or partial scholarships for international students to study at over 280 Chinese universities at undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels. Coverage includes tuition, accommodation, stipend, and medical insurance. Applicants can apply through Chinese embassies or directly to universities.
Key Features
- All degree levels; many universities and fields
- Full or partial funding; includes accommodation and insurance
- Multiple application channels
- Growing number of English-taught programs
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Broad choice of universities and programs; full coverage possible; increasing global recognition
- Cons: Language and cultural barriers; complex application process; some programs only in Chinese
Cost
No application fee. Funding levels vary by program and university.
Visit Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
Other Notable Resources and Portals
What It Includes / How It Works
In addition to major government and foundation scholarships, African students can access a wide range of opportunities via reputable scholarship databases and portals. Sites like Scholarships.com, Fastweb, Bold.org, and ScholarshipPortal aggregate thousands of scholarships, including those open to international and African applicants. These tools allow for filtering by field, destination country, and degree level.
Key Features
- Large, regularly updated scholarship databases
- Customizable search filters
- Information on eligibility, deadlines, and application requirements
- Many listings for both in-person and online/distance learning scholarships
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Easy to compare multiple options; broad search scope; timely deadline reminders
- Cons: Some scholarships may not be open to African applicants; always verify legitimacy and eligibility
Cost
Access to these portals is free. Never pay to apply for a scholarship listed on these sites.
Accredited Online Degree Scholarships
What It Includes / How It Works
Accredited online universities and distance learning programs, such as ASU Online, Penn State World Campus, University of London Online, and degree programs offered via Coursera or edX, increasingly offer partial or full scholarships for international students. These are ideal for students who cannot relocate but want a globally recognized qualification. Always check regional or national accreditation via organizations like CHEA (in the US), and confirm credit transfer agreements if you plan to continue studies elsewhere.
Key Features
- Remote study with recognized institutions
- Partial or full-tuition scholarships available
- Flexible schedules; global peer groups
- Recognition and articulation agreements vary—verify before enrolling
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Flexibility; no need to relocate; increasing employer recognition
- Cons: Fewer full scholarships; potential credit transfer issues; requires self-motivation
Cost
Application is typically free. Tuition varies; some scholarships cover full or partial costs—always check the official site.
How to Choose / What to Look For
When selecting a scholarship, prioritize programs that align with your academic goals, career plans, and values. Carefully review eligibility criteria, including citizenship, age, field of study, and degree level, as these can vary significantly. Consider the scholarship’s coverage—does it include tuition, living expenses, travel, health insurance, and research costs, or will you need to supplement with personal funds or other awards?
Look for evidence of institutional accreditation, especially for online or distance-learning degrees; check with regional or national accrediting agencies such as CHEA or your country’s Ministry of Education. Assess the program’s reputation, alumni outcomes, and support services (mentoring, career development, networking). Finally, beware of scams—legitimate scholarships never require an application fee, and you should always apply directly via official program websites or trusted portals.
How to Get Started / Practical Steps
- Identify your academic goals and preferred study destinations—make a list of 3-5 countries or regions that match your interests and career plans.
- Research scholarship programs targeting your country or field using official program websites and trusted databases like Scholarships.com, Bold.org, and ScholarshipPortal.
- Check eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship; create a calendar to track requirements and submission dates.
- Prepare your academic transcripts, standardized test scores, and language proficiency certificates (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, GRE/GMAT if required).
- Request strong recommendation letters from academic or professional references who know your work well.
- Draft a compelling personal statement or study plan that clearly connects your chosen field to development goals in your home country.
- Submit applications to multiple programs to maximize your chances, and follow up on any interviews or additional documentation requests.
- Verify that any online degree providers are properly accredited and that credits will be recognized if you transfer or pursue further studies.
Limitations
While these scholarships open doors to world-class education, they are highly competitive, often accepting less than 5-10% of applicants. Many programs have strict eligibility criteria regarding nationality, age, field of study, and prior academic achievement, which can exclude otherwise qualified candidates. Coverage may not always be comprehensive—some awards do not cover all living or travel expenses, and recipients may need to secure additional funding.
There are also post-study obligations, such as returning home or working in a specific field for a set period, which may not align with every student’s long-term goals. Application processes can be lengthy and require extensive documentation, standardized test scores, and strong references. Finally, for online or distance learning scholarships, recognition and credit transfer may be limited, so always verify institutional accreditation and articulation agreements before enrolling.
Final Thoughts / Recommendation
For African students aspiring to study abroad, the landscape of scholarships is both promising and challenging. The most successful applicants are those who combine strong academic records with leadership, a clear plan for community impact, and a willingness to navigate complex application processes. No single program fits all needs, so diversify your applications and tailor each one to the scholarship’s mission and criteria.
Start early, seek guidance from academic mentors or alumni, and leverage trusted scholarship portals to uncover lesser-known opportunities. Always verify the legitimacy and accreditation of programs, especially for online or distance degrees. Above all, frame your application around how your studies will contribute to positive change in your home country—this is often the deciding factor for the world’s leading scholarship committees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these scholarships require returning home after graduation?
Many major scholarships, such as Chevening, Commonwealth, and Australia Awards, do require recipients to return to their home country or region for a set period after graduation. This is to ensure that the skills and knowledge gained are used for local development. Always check the specific terms and conditions of each program.
Can I apply to more than one scholarship at a time?
Yes, applying to multiple scholarships is strongly recommended. However, some programs may have exclusivity clauses—if you are awarded more than one, you might have to choose. Be transparent about other applications if asked during the process.
How can I avoid scholarship scams?
Never pay to apply for a legitimate scholarship. Use only official program websites or well-known portals, and look for institutional accreditation and government backing. If an offer sounds too good to be true or requests sensitive information (like bank details) before an official award letter, it is likely a scam.
What documents are typically required?
Most scholarships require academic transcripts, degree certificates, standardized test scores, proof of language proficiency, a personal statement or study plan, and recommendation letters. Some may also request a CV, research proposal, or evidence of leadership and community engagement.
Are there scholarships for online or distance learning degrees?
Yes, a growing number of institutions and platforms offer scholarships for accredited online or distance learning degrees. However, full scholarships are less common than partial awards, and you should always verify the program’s accreditation and recognition in your home country or by employers.
What are the most important factors in a successful application?
Committees generally prioritize academic excellence, leadership potential, and a clear plan to use your education for the benefit of your home community or country. Strong, specific references and a well-crafted personal statement that addresses these priorities can set your application apart.
Do I need to take standardized tests like IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, or GMAT?
Many scholarships require proof of English or host-country language proficiency, and some require standardized test scores, especially for graduate programs. Check the requirements for each scholarship and begin test preparation early if needed.
Disclosure: Deadlines and eligibility change yearly — verify on each programme's official page. Some platform links may be affiliate links; they never affect our assessments.
