Fully Funded Scholarships in Africa: Opportunities You Can’t Miss

Access to quality education is a fundamental right, yet for many in Africa, financial barriers often stand in the way of achieving academic dreams.
Thankfully, fully funded scholarships are creating pathways for talented individuals to access higher education without the burden of financial constraints.

These scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and sometimes even provide additional allowances for books and research.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the most prominent fully funded scholarship opportunities in Africa, their benefits, and how to apply.

 

Why Fully Funded Scholarships Matter

Fully funded scholarships not only alleviate financial burdens but also:
1. Promote academic excellence by encouraging students to focus on their studies.
2. Foster global connections through exchange programs and multicultural learning environments.
3. Support underprivileged communities, empowering students to uplift their societies.

 

Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Africa

1. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program

Want to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program in 2025?

Here’s what you need to know:
It is a competitive process, but if you are a top student with great leadership skills and a passion for helping others, you might just be what they are looking for.
Show them your amazing grades, share your big plans for making a difference, and explain how you want to use your skills to drive positive change around the world.

If you’re selected, you will get incredible support to help you succeed, overcome obstacles, and achieve your goals. It is a life-changing opportunity to become a leader in your field and make a real impact.
The MasterCard Foundation partners with universities in Africa and beyond to provide scholarships for talented students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Eligibility: high academic performance, leadership potential, and financial need.

Benefits: Covers tuition, accommodation, travel, and stipends.

Participating Institutions: Includes universities like;
African Leadership Academy (ALA)—South Africa
Ashesi University—Ghana
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)—Ghana
University of Cape Town (UCT)—South Africa
University of Pretoria, South Africa
University of the Western Cape (UWC)—South Africa
Makerere University, Uganda

Arizona State University (ASU)—USA
McGill University, Canada
University of British Columbia (UBC)—Canada
University of Toronto, Canada
University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)—USA
Wellesley College, USA
Sciences Po-France
University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
American University of Beirut (AUB)—Lebanon

Make sure to check the application deadlines carefully. Deadlines vary depending on the university or institution you’re applying to. To avoid missing out, visit the website of your chosen institution to confirm their specific deadline. Check out their official website for more information.

 

2. African Union (AU) Scholarships

Explore various scholarship opportunities for international students in Africa. Besides university scholarships, numerous organizations, including foundations, trusts, and corporations, offer financial aid. We have compiled the latest information on international scholarships, fellowships, and grants. You can also access and submit the African Union scholarship application form online.
The African Union offers scholarships to foster innovation and development across the continent.

Eligibility: African nationals pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in fields like science, technology, and engineering.

Benefits: tuition fees, travel costs, and living allowances.

How to Apply: Applications are typically made through the African Union Commission’s website.

 

3. DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarships

Exciting opportunity awaits you!
Apply for the fully funded DAAD Scholarship 2025-2026 and pursue your master’s or PhD at top German universities.

As a DAAD scholar, you’ll receive:
1. 934 euros monthly stipend (for master’s students)
2. 1,300 euros monthly stipend (for PhD students)

This scholarship aims to empower talented individuals to become experts in their fields, driving sustainable development and positive change in their home countries. Be part of shaping a brighter future.
Overview: The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides scholarships for postgraduate studies in African universities.

Eligibility: Strong academic performance and a commitment to development-related fields.

Benefits: full tuition, monthly stipends, and research grants.

Participating Countries: South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, and others.
Depending on the chosen study program, please check deadlines on the official website to be on the safe side.

4. The Rhodes Scholarship for Southern Africa

Are you a talented young person from Southern Africa looking to pursue a postgraduate degree at the University of Oxford?.
The Rhodes Scholarship for Southern Africa might be the perfect opportunity for you.

Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 2025 Rhodes Scholarship, you must:

1. Be a citizen or legal permanent resident of South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, or eSwatini (formerly Swaziland).
2. Have lived in one of the eligible countries for at least five of the last ten years.
3. Be at least 19 years old and not older than 25 by October 1, 2025.

What’s Covered?
The Rhodes Scholarship covers almost all expenses related to studying at Oxford, including:

1. Tuition fees
2. Living allowance
3. Transportation costs
4. Personal Stipend

When selecting Rhodes Scholars, criteria that are looked at are:

1. Academic excellence (minimum cumulative GPA of 3.70)
2. Mastery of a skill or area that involves teamwork
3. Unselfishness and a commitment to helping others

Referee Requirements
When applying, please ensure your referees are:

1. Not personal friends, peers, or relatives
2. Free from any conflicts of interest
For more details, check out the official website.

 

5. The Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship

Named after Nelson Mandela and Cecil Rhodes, this program develops leadership potential in postgraduate students across Africa.
The Mandela Rhodes Foundation (MRF) Scholarship provides financial support and leadership development for postgraduate studies in South Africa and beyond.

Eligibility
To be eligible, applicants must:

1. Be citizens of African countries.
2. Be between 19 and 30 years old.
3. Hold a first degree or be close to completing one.
4. Demonstrate strong academic performance and a commitment to education, reconciliation, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

Benefits
The scholarship covers:
1. Tuition and registration fees
2. Study materials
3. Accommodation
4. Meal allowances
5. Medical aid
6. Personal allowance
7. Economy-class travel allowance for international scholars

Program
The scholarship includes a leadership development program, which takes place during the week or on weekends. Note that the scholarship cannot be deferred and must be taken up in the year it was applied for.
The scholarship is available for postgraduate study in any field (except MBAs) at a recognized South African institution of higher education.

It can be used for:
1. Honours degree (maximum one year)
2. Masters degree (up to a maximum of two years)
The deadline is April 21, 2025. You can also check out the official website.

 

How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships

1. Research Opportunities
Identify scholarships that align with your field of study and goals.
Check eligibility criteria and deadlines.

2. Prepare Your Documents
Academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a well-crafted personal statement.
Proof of financial need, where applicable.

3. Focus on Your Application Essay
Highlight your achievements, aspirations, and how the scholarship will help you contribute to your community.

4. Ace the Interview
If shortlisted, be prepared to discuss your goals and demonstrate your passion for your chosen field.

5. Follow Up
Keep track of your application status and respond promptly to any requests from the scholarship committee.

 

Tips for a Successful Application

Start Early: Most scholarships have strict deadlines, so give yourself ample time to prepare.

Seek Guidance: Consult mentors, teachers, or alumni who have received similar scholarships.

Be Authentic: Showcase your unique story and how you intend to make a difference.

Double-Check Your Application: Ensure all required documents are included and error-free.

Conclusion

Fully funded scholarships in Africa are transforming lives by providing access to education for those who might not otherwise afford it.

Whether you’re an aspiring undergraduate or a professional seeking advanced studies, these opportunities can be your gateway to success.

Take the first step by exploring these scholarships and preparing a compelling application.

Remember, education is the most powerful tool you can use to change your life and the world. Don’t miss these opportunities to achieve your dreams!

 

Have you come across other fully funded scholarships in Africa? Share them in the comments to help others discover these life-changing opportunities.