Finding a fully funded scholarship is one of the most powerful ways to access world-class education without financial burden. The good news is that every year, hundreds of scholarships open specifically for African students — covering tuition, accommodation, flights and living expenses.
Here are 10 of the most prestigious and accessible fully funded scholarships currently open or opening soon.
1. Chevening Scholarship (UK)
The UK government’s flagship international scholarship programme funds outstanding emerging leaders to study a one-year master’s degree at any UK university. It covers full tuition, monthly stipend, flights and visa costs. Open to citizens of eligible countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa.
Who can apply: Professionals with at least two years of work experience Deadline: Typically November each year Apply at: chevening.org
2. Commonwealth Scholarship (UK)
Funded by the UK government for students from Commonwealth countries. Covers master’s and PhD programmes at UK universities. Includes tuition, airfare, living allowance and thesis grant.
Who can apply: Citizens of Commonwealth countries with a strong academic record Deadline: Varies by programme — typically December Apply at: cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk
3. DAAD Scholarship (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service offers scholarships for African students to study in Germany at master’s and doctoral level. Covers tuition, monthly allowance, health insurance and travel costs.
Who can apply: Graduates with excellent academic records Deadline: Varies by programme Apply at: daad.de
4. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
One of the largest scholarship programmes specifically for African students. Partners with leading universities globally to fund undergraduate and graduate studies. Includes tuition, accommodation, meals, transport and a personal development allowance.
Who can apply: Academically talented African students with demonstrated financial need Deadline: Varies by partner university Apply at: mastercardfdn.org/scholars
5. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
The US government’s premier international educational exchange programme. Funds master’s and PhD degrees at US universities. Covers tuition, living stipend, health insurance and round-trip travel.
Who can apply: Citizens of participating African countries with strong academics Deadline: Typically varies by country — check your country’s Fulbright Commission Apply at: fulbrightprogram.org
6. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (Europe)
Funded by the European Union, this programme funds joint master’s degrees across multiple European universities. Covers tuition, travel, installation costs and a monthly stipend.
Who can apply: Students worldwide including all African countries Deadline: Varies by programme — typically January to March Apply at: erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu
7. African Union Scholarship
The African Union Commission offers scholarships for intra-African mobility — enabling African students to study at universities within Africa at postgraduate level.
Who can apply: African nationals wanting to study within Africa Deadline: Check au.int for current openings Apply at: au.int
8. Japan MEXT Scholarship
The Japanese government funds undergraduate, master’s and doctoral studies in Japan. Covers tuition, accommodation, monthly allowance and flights. No application fee required.
Who can apply: Citizens of countries with Japanese diplomatic relations including most African countries Deadline: Typically April–May each year Apply at: Contact your nearest Japanese Embassy
9. Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP)
Funded by the South Korean government to study at Korean universities at undergraduate and graduate level. Covers full tuition, monthly allowance, airfare, Korean language training and medical insurance.
Who can apply: Citizens of eligible countries — includes Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia and others Deadline: Typically March each year Apply at: niied.go.kr
10. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship
Provides postgraduate scholarships to outstanding students from developing countries who have no other means of funding their studies. Awards are offered as a combination of grant and loan.
Who can apply: Students from eligible countries including many African nations Deadline: Typically March–May Apply at: akdn.org
How to Apply Successfully
Before applying for any scholarship:
- Start your application at least 3 months before the deadline
- Prepare a strong personal statement explaining your goals and how the scholarship supports them
- Get strong academic and professional reference letters
- Ensure your English language scores (IELTS/TOEFL) meet the requirements
- Use OHub24’s AI Drafting Assistant to tailor your personal statement to each scholarship
Browse all current scholarships on OHub24 at ohub24.com