10 Scholarships African Students Should Apply for This Year
“Thousands of scholarships can unlock global education if you prepare early and apply strategically.”
A curated guide to major fully funded and high-impact scholarships African students should consider this year, with benefits, official resources, and practical application guidance.
Studying abroad is one of the most powerful ways to access world-class education, global career opportunities, and international networks. However, many students believe studying abroad is only possible for those who can afford expensive tuition fees.
The good news is that thousands of scholarships are available for African students every year, many of which are fully funded and cover tuition, travel costs, accommodation, and living expenses.
At HelpAbroad Konect, our mission is to connect students with global education and career opportunities by guiding them through applications, scholarships, and international mobility pathways.
Below are 10 major scholarships African students should consider applying for this year, along with official resources where you can learn more and apply.
1. Chevening Scholarships (United Kingdom)
The Chevening Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships funded by the UK Government. It supports students with leadership potential to pursue one-year master's degrees at UK universities.
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Travel costs
- Visa application fees
2. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
The Fulbright Program allows international students to pursue graduate studies or research in the United States. It is funded by the U.S. government and available in many African countries.
- Tuition coverage
- Monthly living stipend
- Travel allowance
- Health insurance
3. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) offers scholarships for students from developing countries to study in Germany. Programmes include master's degrees, PhD studies, and research fellowships.
- Tuition coverage
- Monthly stipend
- Health insurance
- Travel allowance
4. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships (Europe)
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters programme allows students to study in multiple European countries during their degree programme.
- Tuition fees fully covered
- Monthly stipend
- Travel costs
- Insurance
5. Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission provides scholarships for students from Commonwealth countries to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.
- Tuition fees
- Airfare
- Living allowance
- Thesis grants for PhD students
6. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides education funding for talented students from Africa who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential. Partner universities include institutions in Canada, the United States, and Africa.
- Tuition
- Accommodation
- Books
- Living expenses
- Leadership training
7. Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship supports outstanding international students pursuing postgraduate degrees at the University of Cambridge.
- Full tuition coverage
- Living allowance
- Travel costs
- Research funding
8. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals
The Swedish Institute Scholarship supports students pursuing master's degrees in Sweden.
- Tuition coverage
- Monthly stipend
- Travel grants
- Health insurance
9. Australia Awards Scholarships
The Australia Awards Scholarship is funded by the Australian government to support students from developing countries.
- Full tuition
- Travel costs
- Living allowance
- Health insurance
10. Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
This scholarship supports students pursuing graduate degrees in development-related fields.
- Tuition fees
- Monthly living allowance
- Round-trip airfare
- Health insurance
More Scholarships African Students Should Watch
Students should also monitor scholarship opportunities from private foundations, elite universities, and sector-specific programmes that update throughout the year.
- Google Generation Scholarship
- Oxford Clarendon Scholarships
- Rhodes Scholarship
- Mandela Rhodes Scholarship
- University-specific scholarships
Tips for Winning Scholarships
Scholarships are competitive, but strong preparation significantly improves your chances.
- Start early
- Prepare a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Highlight leadership and community impact
- Secure strong recommendation letters
- Follow application instructions carefully
Many successful applicants start preparing their documents 6 to 12 months before deadlines.
How HelpAbroad Konect Can Help
Applying for scholarships can be complex and time-consuming. At HelpAbroad Konect, we help students navigate the entire process from opportunity search to application readiness and mobility support.
- Scholarship search and matching
- University application guidance
- SOP and CV preparation
- Visa application support
- Pre-departure preparation
Our goal is to help students unlock global education opportunities and build international careers.
