For many African students, studying abroad is a transformative dream, yet funding remains the biggest hurdle. Fortunately, NGOs and organizations worldwide are stepping up to bridge this gap. Below is a curated list of credible programs offering scholarships, fellowships, and financial aid to African students, as shared by Jakut in their insightful Facebook post.
1. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Description: This program targets academically gifted students facing financial barriers, offering full scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Coverage includes tuition, housing, travel, and even mentorship.
Key Benefit: Holistic support beyond just funding.
Apply Here: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
2. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme
Description: Focused on postgraduate studies, this scholarship supports exceptional students from developing countries with no alternative funding options. Priority is given to fields that drive community development.
Key Benefit: Emphasis on sustainable impact in home countries.
Apply Here: Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships
3. Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders
Description: A U.S.-based leadership initiative offering academic training, networking, and professional development for young Africans. While not a full degree scholarship, it opens doors to future opportunities.
Key Benefit: Builds leadership skills and global connections.
Learn More: Mandela Washington Fellowship
4. Rotary Peace Fellowships
Description: Ideal for students passionate about peacebuilding. This fully funded fellowship supports master’s degrees or professional certificates in conflict resolution at top universities.
Key Benefit: Access to Rotary’s global network of change-makers.
Apply Here: Rotary Peace Fellowships
5. MPOWER Financing Scholarships
Description: MPOWER offers scholarships and loans to international students (including Africans) enrolled at partner universities in the U.S. and Canada. Their scholarships reward academic excellence and social impact.
Key Benefit: No cosigner or collateral required for loans.
Explore Options: MPOWER Financing
6. Rhodes Scholarships for Africa
Description: One of the world’s most prestigious scholarships, the Rhodes funds postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford for outstanding African students.
Key Benefit: Lifetime access to a influential alumni network.
Apply Here: Rhodes Scholarships
Pro Tips for Applicants
- Start Early: Many scholarships have deadlines 6–12 months before the academic year.
- Tailor Applications: Highlight leadership experience and community impact.
- Verify Eligibility: Ensure you meet criteria like nationality, academic level, and field of study.
Join Jakut’s Communities for Support
For ongoing guidance, connect with Jakut’s networks:
- Facebook Group: The JAKUT Junction
- Telegram Channel: Join Here
- WhatsApp Channel: Follow Here
Final Thoughts
Funding should never be the reason to abandon your academic aspirations. With persistence and the right resources, these organizations can turn your study abroad dream into reality. Apply diligently, leverage Jakut’s communities for advice, and step confidently toward your future!
Inspired by Jakut’s Facebook post. Always verify details on official websites before applying.
