Did you know there are numerous scholarships for African students in Africa? Contrary to popular belief, academic funding is not exclusive to universities abroad. Albeit limited, there are existing funding programs that can fully or partially cover the cost of your educational program within Africa.
Whether you are from Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, or South Africa, these opportunities are within reach. This blog compiles a list of programs hosting scholarships for African students to save you time.
However, you must not forget to review the eligibility criteria for each post before sending an application.
List of Scholarships for African students in Africa
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship
The MasterCard Foundation Scholars program is a global initiative that empowers the next generation of transformative leaders through quality education. To achieve this goal, the foundation partners with NGOs, educational institutions, and the MasterCard foundation community. Beneficiaries must be young talents from neglected populations in Africa. Interested students can apply through MasterCard-affiliated institutions of their choice.
Eligibility
Applicants must be African citizens who:
- Have an excellent academic record
- Have a genuine need for funding
- Demonstrate strong leadership abilities
Award benefits
- Full-tuition fees
- Accommodation and meals
- Leadership development opportunities
- Monthly stipend
- Travel allowance
Closing date: September 30, 2025.
Google Conference scholarship
Google is offering full sponsorships to help students in the tech industry attend leading conferences in Africa. This program aims to break down barriers restricting students from underrepresented groups from building connections and acquiring knowledge relevant to their field.
Eligibility
Candidates who are:
- Full-time student of an accredited university in Africa
- Available to attend Google’s conference
- At least 18 years old
- Must have a paper accepted at a reputable computer science conference
Scholarship value
- $100
- Living stipend
- Travel cost
- Accommodation
Application deadline: No specified deadlines, as applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
University of Ghana TDR scholarship
The University of Ghana is the oldest public university in Accra, Ghana. Applications are now open for its TDR postgraduate scholarships for African students. The University also offers full funding for research and master’s students pursuing a program in the School of Public Health.
Eligibility
- Be a permanent resident or citizen of a low-income country
- English proficiency is required
- Under 35 years of age
- Passion for addressing major global health challenges
Award value
- Travel (on round-trip economy airfare)
- Research support
- Tuition
- Monthly stipend
Closing date: May 5, 2025.
Also Read: 2025 Fully funded scholarships for online Masters
The Nordic Africa Institute Scholarship program
NAI scholarship is concerned with creating opportunities for African researchers who are open to developing their research at the institute. In addition to financial benefits, the institute offers a workspace and a laptop.
More so, research students will enjoy full access to the library and an enabling study environment.
Eligibility
- You must be African
- Enrolled for a full-time postgraduate course at an African university
- Postdoctoral researchers with five years or less of PhD completion
Award benefits: $250
Closing date: March 31, 2025.
WAAW Foundation Scholarships
WAAW Foundation is sponsoring female talents to pursue studies in STEM-related courses. This offer is open to students who require financial aid to make progress in their academics. It is important to note that this scholarship covers only undergraduate programs.
Eligibility
- Female students of African origin living and studying in Africa
- Below the age of 32
- Excellent academic records
- Proven leadership, volunteering, and community service
Scholarship benefits: $500
Application deadline: November 4, 2025
Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship
Mandela Rhodes Foundation is inviting applications for its annual funding program. The foundation is committed to building exceptional leadership capacity in Africa. For this reason, it offers scholarships for African students. Using this vehicle, it helps students access exceptional educational opportunities and a network of professionals in their field.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be between the ages of 19 and 30 years old
- Citizens of all African countries
- Must be pursuing a postgraduate study program at a South African University
Scholarship value
- Full tuition of your preferred institution
- Study materials
- Research Allowance
- Medical aid
Application deadline: April 25, 2025
Zawadi Africa Educational Fund
This program was established to empower academically gifted young girls from disadvantaged backgrounds in Africa. Shortlisted candidates receive full funding to pursue higher education in the U.S.A., Kenya, Uganda, and South Africa.
Eligibility
- Girls who have their secondary school certificates
- Outstanding academic performance
- Genuine financial need
- Has experience in a leadership position like a school prefect.
- Is involved in extracurricular activities
- Applicants should have completed their secondary school application at least two years before applying.
Award value
Full-tuition
Closing date: April 5, 2025
Access the application form here
University of Global Health scholarship
The University of Global Health in Rwanda sponsors annual scholarships for African students. Candidates eligible for financial support must be pursuing advanced nursing degrees. This platform seeks to empower individuals who are committed to addressing health challenges.
Eligibility
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing program
- Non-restricted RN practice license
- Proficiency in English
- Current employment as an RN
Scholarship benefits
- 100% Tuition fees
- Transport allowance
- Housing and meals
Application deadline: Application 22, 2025.
The University of Cape Town scholarships
The University of Cape Town is calling for applications for its annual postgraduate scholarships. This competitive scholarship recognizes and rewards outstanding applicants. Preference will be given to senior candidates. Benefits are renewable throughout the study year for students who maintain satisfactory performance.
Eligibility
Candidates must be:
- Must be academically talented
- Enrolled for a full-time postgraduate program
- Demonstrate financial need
Award benefits
- Honors R25
- Masters R30
- Doctoral R35
Closing date: August 31, 2025
Alex Otti Scholarship Foundation
Alex Otti Scholarship Foundation is currently providing fully funded scholarships for Nigerian students. This program is for students who are willing to apply their talents to the development of society. Applicants are expected to submit a recognition letter proving they reside in Abia State.
Eligibility
- Strong personal academic background
- Must be a 200-level student in a federal-owned tertiary institution in Nigeria
- Siblings of current Alex Otti Foundation scholars are not eligible
Award value
- Full tuition
- Accommodation
- Living stipends
Closing date: April 2, 2025.