Fully Funded Scholarships for African Students

For many talented African students, the high price of international education feels like an impossible barrier, putting premium opportunities out of reach. It's frustrating, right? Knowing you have the potential, but seeing that funding gap standing between you and transformative universities and experiences.

That feeling of missing out can be disheartening. But the good news is: fully funded scholarships exist specifically to remove that barrier for African students like you. Read this article, and let's explore how you can access these opportunities.

Why You Should Seriously Consider Fully Funded Scholarships as an African Student

Higher education is expensive. In many parts of the world, especially in top-ranking universities, tuition fees are skyrocketing, and the cost of living isn't making it any easier. Many students, including Africans, struggle to fund their higher education. 

That’s why receiving financial aid can go a long way in easing this burden and enabling them to complete their studies. As an African student, here's why you should consider applying for different study abroad scholarships.

• They Take The Financial Pressure Off

The rising cost of education is a global issue, and the costs increase every year. For example, top U.S. schools often list sticker prices over $90,000 per year. This means the full cost of a four-year degree can exceed $360,000 over four years. Now, imagine getting all of that covered by a scholarship. 

In addition to waiving tuition, many fully funded scholarships also cover accommodation, travel costs, health insurance, and even a monthly stipend. That means you can focus on your studies instead of worrying about bills or falling into long-term debt. 

As of 2023, the average federal student loan debt in the U.S. was around $40,000, lingering as the nation’s second-largest household debt after mortgages.

• They Open Opportunities to Global Networks

Receiving a prestigious scholarship is beyond just joining a school; you’re entering a global community. Many scholarship programs, including Chevening, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, and the Mandela Rhodes, regularly host leadership retreats, academic conferences, and professional development workshops.

These events bring together talented scholars from around the world, giving you a rare chance to:

• Connect with like-minded peers and future collaborators

• Learn from experts and industry leaders

• Build relationships that could lead to internships or partnerships down the line

• They Boost Your Academic and Career Credibility

Because these scholarships are highly selective, winning a competitive scholarship is no small feat. And being awarded one demonstrates your excellence, drive, and potential. 

Having one on your CV signals to employers, institutions, and funders that you’re not only capable but globally recognized. Therefore, it's a long-term investment in your visibility and credibility.

• There Are More Opportunities Than You Think

Gone are the days when scholarships were limited to a lucky few. Today, there are hundreds of full-ride scholarships targeted specifically at African students (at undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate levels). 

Whether you want to study in the UK, the U.S., Canada, Germany, or even within Africa, some programs fit your field and background. All you need is the willingness to research, prepare strong applications, and remain persistent.

Other Benefits You Might Not Have Considered:

• Personal Growth: Living abroad and studying in a new environment can improve your adaptability, resilience, and leadership skills.

• Academic Support: Many scholarship programs offer mentoring, internships, and academic guidance to help scholars succeed.

• Cultural Exposure: You’ll experience new cultures, languages, and ways of thinking, which broadens your worldview and prepares you for international roles.

• Post-Graduation Perks: Some scholarships offer job placement support or access to exclusive alumni networks with long-term career benefits.

Read this article: Scholarships for Graduate Students

Top Fully Funded Scholarships for African Students

Ready to turn your academic dreams into reality without worrying about the cost? Here are some of the top full-ride financial awards designed specifically for African students.

• The Rhodes Scholarship

Ever dreamed of studying at Oxford? The Rhodes Scholarship could make that happen, and it’s fully funded. The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships out there. And it gives brilliant students from across the world (including Africa!) a chance to study at one of the best universities on the planet. 

This isn’t merely about free tuition or a fancy name on your CV. The Rhodes Scholarship is all about finding young people with big ideas and leadership spirits who want to make a difference in their communities and beyond.

You’ll get the chance to study almost any full-time postgraduate course at the University of Oxford, whether Master’s or DPhil (that’s Oxford’s version of a PhD). Depending on what you study, the scholarship can cover up to three years of your academic journey.

The Rhodes Scholarship Covers:

• Full tuition fees for your chosen postgraduate course at Oxford

• A yearly living stipend of £19,800 (that’s about £1,650/month) to cover your living expenses

• Visa and health surcharge fees, so you can access the UK’s National Health Service

• Two economy-class flights (to the UK and back home when you’re done with your studies)

• A settling-in allowance upon arrival

• Additional financial support if you move to a second program in Oxford
  
  

And yes, that’s just the beginning. Beyond being a student, once you’re selected, you become part of a global community of change-makers and trailblazers. Rhodes Scholars get access to leadership programs, personal development resources, and lifelong connections through the Character, Service & Leadership Programme (CSLP).

Need support along the way? The Rhodes team has your back. From financial guidance to help with travel or research grants, they’ll make sure you’re thriving at Oxford. And let’s be honest: living in Oxford is a dream. It’s rich in history, full of culture, and packed with opportunities to learn, lead, and grow in every way.

If you want to level up and be part of something bigger than yourself, the Rhodes Scholarship is worth every shot.

Apply for The Rhodes Scholarship

• Mandela Rhodes Scholarship

If you're a young African leader with bold dreams and a heart for impact, the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship might just be your next big step. This isn’t your average scholarship; the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship provides postgraduate funding for African students to study in South Africa.

At its core, the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship focuses on investing in the kind of leaders Africa needs: individuals passionate about driving real change on the continent. You'll complete a one-year Honours or two-year Master's degree in any field at a recognised South African institution. 

Plus, you’ll be part of a world-class Leadership Development Program. Consider it your personal bootcamp for purpose-driven leadership filled with in-person workshops, transformative conversations, and a community of young minds from all over Africa.

What the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship Covers:

• Full tuition and registration fees (as charged by your university)

• A study materials allowance

• Accommodation and meals

• Medical aid support

• A personal allowance for day-to-day needs

• Access to research and conference grants (available on request)

• Economy-class flights to and from your home country at the start and end of your studies (if you're studying internationally)

See also: Fully Funded Scholarships for Undergraduate Students

Every scholar is enrolled in a compulsory Leadership Development Programme, lasting one or two years, depending on your course. You'll participate in week-long, in-person workshops.

You’ll also get access to mentors and join a lifelong community that’s committed to transforming Africa for the better. Overall, the Mandela Rhodes Foundation builds leaders.

So if you're ready to tackle Africa’s biggest challenges and want a network that’ll challenge, stretch, and support you along the way, this is the kind of opportunity you don’t want to miss.

Apply for The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship

• African Leadership University (ALU) Scholarships

The African Leadership University (ALU) Scholarship is one of Africa’s most prestigious study abroad scholarships. Through partnerships with the Mastercard Foundation and other key donors, ALU offers full-ride scholarships to students who show both financial need and strong leadership potential.

As one of the best African scholarship opportunities, it opens doors for the next generation of leaders to:

• Access world-class education

• Grow their impact

• Bring real change back home

These scholarships are designed for individuals who wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford an ALU education. So if you’re academically strong but financially stretched, this could be your chance to soar.

What’s Covered in the African Leadership University (ALU) Scholarship?

ALU’s scholarships are comprehensive, meaning they take care of more than just classes:

• 100% of tuition fees for your entire program

• Extra financial support to help you through your studies (details may vary based on the scholarship provider)

• Support that continues throughout your journey at ALU

Simply put, ALU’s goal is to let you focus on learning, building, and leading without worrying about money.

Apply for The African Leadership University (ALU) Scholarships

• The DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholarship

Got your Bachelor’s degree and dreaming of taking your studies to the next level in Germany? Are you also from Cameroon, Senegal, Togo, South Sudan, or Uganda, or living as a refugee in any of these African countries? The DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholarship might be for you.

This international scholarship offers a full package designed to prepare you academically, culturally, and professionally for life and study in Germany. There are two application streams based on your nationality and refugee status:

• West & Central Africa: Open to nationals and refugees in Cameroon, Senegal, or Togo

• East Africa: Open to nationals and refugees in South Sudan or Uganda

Whether you’re a refugee or a citizen, you must:

• Have completed a Bachelor’s degree

• Live in and/or hold citizenship in one of the eligible countries

• Have refugee status granted before April 2, 2024 (for refugee applicants)

African scholarship opportunities like this support students with academic potential, big goals, and a drive to lead and make an impact.

What’s Included in The DAAD Scholarship?

DAAD has thought of everything to help you thrive in Germany. Here’s what you’ll get:

• Up to 6 months of intensive German language training in Germany before your Master’s programme begins

• A tuition-free Master’s degree at a public or state-recognized German university

• Pre-departure and arrival seminars to help you settle in, prepare, and succeed

• Professional and personal support throughout your study journey in Germany
  

The best part? You’re free to apply to any suitable Master’s programme in Germany, meaning you can tailor your studies to your passions and career goals.

Note: If your undergraduate degree is in Medicine, you can only apply for Public Health or Biomedical-related Master's programmes. So, if you’re a young African graduate with a vision for leadership and a hunger for world-class education, consider this financial aid for African students.

Apply for The DAAD West and Central Africa Scholarship

Apply for The DAAD East Africa Scholarship

• Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is among the best fully funded international scholarships for African students. If you’re a young African student from a minority background, this might be the opportunity that changes everything.

The Mastercard Foundation Program is a global initiative that aims to unlock the leadership potential of talented, service-minded young people, especially those from underserved African communities across Africa.

It helps you rise above the barriers of poverty, access quality education, and become a force for change in your community and beyond. From the moment you're selected, you're plugged into a supportive network that includes:

• Top-tier universities across Africa, North America, and beyond

• Nonprofit organizations and mentors who walk the journey with you

• A vibrant community of scholars and alumni committed to driving progress across the continent
  

Check Out: 10 Scholarships You Didn't Know Existed

What’s Covered in The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?

Although specifics vary by institution, most Mastercard Foundation scholarships include:

• Full tuition fees

• Accommodation and living expenses

• Books and learning materials

• Travel costs

• Career guidance and internship opportunities

• Leadership development training, and mentorship
  
  

Generally, it’s a holistic experience designed to prepare you for life after graduation. The ultimate goal? To equip you to lead inclusive, equitable change in your field, your country, and the world.

Apply for The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

FAQs

1. Which fully funded scholarship is available now?

Fulbright scholarships are fully funded international scholarships for international students. Only master's and PhD degrees are available for these awards. The Fulbright Foreign Student Program pays for all living expenses, tuition, flights, health insurance, and housing costs.

2. Which bank in Nigeria gives a student loan to study abroad?

MPOWER Financing is one company that offers student loans to Nigerian students looking to study abroad for their higher education.

3. Which country can I get a full scholarship in as an African?

You can get African scholarship opportunities in the following countries: the UK, South Africa, Germany, Nigeria, the USA, China, Japan, and Switzerland.

4. Which country is the cheapest to study for international students?

Germany and Norway are frequently mentioned as two of the most cost-effective countries for international students. Most programs at German public universities are tuition-free, with very small administrative costs. Similarly, Norway offers all students, regardless of nationality, free tuition at public universities.

Conclusion

Full-ride funding for African students gives Africans access to world-class education without the financial burden. In addition to covering tuition, they empower future leaders to gain skills, build networks, and create impact back home.

If you’re a driven student desirous of further education, now’s the time to take action. Explore the options in this article, check your eligibility, and start your journey. Your scholarship to study abroad could be just one application away.