Studying abroad can provide African students with access to world-class universities, advanced research facilities, international professional networks, and career opportunities that may not be available locally. However, the cost of international education can be a significant barrier.
Tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, airfare, health insurance, food, books, and visa expenses can make studying overseas extremely expensive.
Fortunately, there are hundreds of study abroad scholarships for African students offered by governments, universities, foundations, international organizations, and nonprofit institutions.
Some scholarships provide partial financial assistance, while others are fully funded scholarships that can cover tuition, accommodation, living expenses, airfare, health insurance, and other educational costs.
This guide highlights some of the best scholarship opportunities African students should consider for the 2027 academic year and explains how to find, qualify for, and apply for international scholarships.
Can African Students Get Fully Funded Scholarships to Study Abroad?
Yes.
African students are eligible for numerous government-funded, university-funded, and international scholarships around the world.
Scholarships may be available to students from:
- Ghana
- Nigeria
- Kenya
- South Africa
- Uganda
- Tanzania
- Rwanda
- Ethiopia
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
- Cameroon
- Senegal
- Liberia
- Sierra Leone
- The Gambia
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Egypt
- Morocco
- Algeria
- Tunisia
- Botswana
- Namibia
- Malawi
- Mozambique
- And many other African countries
Eligibility depends on the specific scholarship. Some programs are open to students from all African countries, while others are restricted to particular countries or regions.
What Does a Fully Funded Scholarship Cover?
A fully funded scholarship can cover most of the major expenses associated with studying abroad.
Depending on the program, funding may include:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly living allowance
- Accommodation
- Round-trip airfare
- Health insurance
- Visa expenses
- Books and study materials
- Research expenses
- Travel allowances
- Relocation or establishment allowance
However, fully funded does not necessarily mean that every personal expense is covered.
Always read the official scholarship terms to determine exactly what is included.
Best Study Abroad Scholarships for African Students in 2027
There are many scholarship programs available to African students. The following are among the most important opportunities to research.
1. Chevening Scholarships – United Kingdom
Chevening is one of the most prestigious scholarship programs available to international students seeking to study in the United Kingdom.
The UK government’s Chevening Scholarship provides fully funded opportunities for outstanding emerging leaders to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the UK.
African students from eligible countries can apply through their respective country pages.
Chevening describes its scholarships as fully funded, allowing scholars to focus on their studies and professional development.
What Does Chevening Cover?
Depending on the applicable award terms, funding can include:
- University tuition fees
- Monthly living stipend
- Travel to and from the UK
- Arrival allowance
- Departure allowance
- Visa application costs
- Travel-related allowances
Who Should Apply?
Chevening is particularly suitable for African professionals and emerging leaders who can demonstrate:
- Leadership
- Professional experience
- Career progression
- Networking ability
- A clear future vision
- Commitment to making an impact
2027–28 Chevening Timeline
For the 2027–28 intake, applications opened on 4 August 2026 and close on 6 October 2026 at 11:00 UTC. Shortlisted applicants are expected to be invited to interviews in February 2027, with interviews taking place from March to April. Successful applicants are expected to begin their UK studies in September or October 2027.
African applicants should check the Chevening country page for their citizenship because availability and additional awards can vary.
2. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters – Europe
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters program is one of the best opportunities for African students interested in master’s degrees in Europe.
Students from around the world are eligible to apply, and selected programs offer full scholarships to highly ranked applicants.
One of the unique features of Erasmus Mundus is that students can study at multiple universities in different countries during the same master’s program.
A program may involve:
- Study in multiple European countries
- Research
- Internships
- Thesis preparation
- International academic collaboration
What Can Erasmus Mundus Scholarships Cover?
Scholarships can contribute toward:
- Participation costs
- Travel
- Visa expenses
- Installation costs
- Living expenses
The EU program guide states that Erasmus Mundus scholarships cover travel, visa, installation, and subsistence costs for the scholarship period. Scholarship holders also cannot be charged tuition or other mandatory participation costs by the selected program.
How to Apply
Students apply directly to the institution or consortium running the specific master’s program.
Most programs have their own admission requirements and deadlines.
In many cases, applications for programs beginning the following academic year are submitted between October and January.
For African students seeking a master’s degree in Europe, Erasmus Mundus should be one of the first scholarship programs to research.
3. DAAD Scholarships – Germany
The German Academic Exchange Service, commonly known as DAAD, provides numerous scholarships for international students and researchers.
Germany is especially attractive because many public universities charge little or no tuition for many programs, meaning a scholarship can primarily help cover living expenses and other costs.
DAAD opportunities can include funding for:
- Master’s degrees
- Doctoral programs
- Research
- Postgraduate study
- Academic exchanges
Available programs and eligibility requirements vary by country and academic field.
African students should search the DAAD scholarship database and filter opportunities according to their nationality, academic level, and intended field of study.
4. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides educational opportunities for academically talented young people who face significant economic or other barriers to higher education.
The program works with universities and educational institutions across Africa and internationally.
Depending on the partner institution, scholarship support may include:
- Tuition
- Accommodation
- Living expenses
- Books
- Transportation
- Academic support
- Leadership development
The exact benefits and eligibility requirements depend on the university or organization administering the scholarship.
African students should therefore search for participating universities and review each institution’s application process.
5. Commonwealth Scholarships – United Kingdom
Commonwealth Scholarships provide opportunities for students from eligible Commonwealth countries to pursue postgraduate education in the United Kingdom.
Many African countries are members of the Commonwealth, making these scholarships particularly important for African applicants.
Depending on the specific scholarship, funding can include:
- Tuition fees
- Living allowance
- Airfare
- Other approved expenses
Commonwealth scholarships are generally focused on academic excellence and development impact.
Applicants should identify the specific Commonwealth scholarship scheme that matches their degree level and nationality because eligibility requirements differ between programs.
6. Australia Awards Scholarships – Australia
Australia Awards Scholarships are funded by the Australian government and provide opportunities for students from eligible developing countries.
The program is particularly focused on supporting development priorities and strengthening professional capacity in participating countries.
Depending on the applicable country program, benefits can include:
- Full tuition fees
- Return airfare
- Living expenses
- Establishment allowance
- Health insurance
- Introductory academic programs
- Pre-course English language training where applicable
Eligibility differs by country, so African applicants should check whether their country participates and review the current requirements.
7. MEXT Scholarships – Japan
The Japanese government’s MEXT Scholarship provides opportunities for international students to study in Japan.
African students can explore MEXT opportunities at different academic levels, including:
- Undergraduate study
- Master’s degrees
- Doctoral degrees
- Research programs
- Teacher training
- Japanese studies
Depending on the category, benefits may include:
- Tuition fees
- Admission fees
- Monthly allowance
- Travel expenses
Applications may be handled through Japanese embassies or through university recommendation routes, depending on the scholarship category.
8. Fulbright Foreign Student Program – United States
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program provides opportunities for international students to pursue graduate-level study and research in the United States.
African applicants can explore Fulbright opportunities through the program operating in their country.
Benefits vary by country and program but may include:
- Tuition assistance
- Living expenses
- Airfare
- Health insurance
- Educational allowances
Because Fulbright eligibility and application procedures can vary significantly by country, applicants should use the official Fulbright information applicable to their citizenship.
9. University-Specific Scholarships
African students should not limit their search to major government scholarships.
Universities themselves offer thousands of scholarships and funding opportunities.
These may include:
- Merit scholarships
- Need-based scholarships
- International student scholarships
- Graduate assistantships
- Research assistantships
- Teaching assistantships
- Tuition waivers
- Departmental scholarships
Some university scholarships can be easier to compete for than major international awards because the applicant pool may be smaller.
10. Fully Funded PhD Scholarships
African students interested in doctoral research should pay particular attention to fully funded PhD positions.
Unlike traditional scholarships, many PhD opportunities are structured as funded research positions.
A university may provide:
- Tuition waiver
- Monthly stipend
- Research funding
- Health insurance
- Conference funding
In some countries, doctoral candidates may also be employed as research or teaching staff.
Popular destinations for funded PhD opportunities include:
- Germany
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Netherlands
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Australia
- France
Scholarships by Degree Level
Scholarships for African Undergraduate Students
Fully funded undergraduate scholarships are competitive but available.
Students should look for:
- Government scholarships
- University scholarships
- Foundation scholarships
- International development programs
- Institution-specific financial aid
Strong academic performance can be particularly important at the undergraduate level.
Scholarships for African Master’s Students
African master’s students have access to a much larger range of international scholarships.
Major programs include:
- Chevening
- Erasmus Mundus
- DAAD
- Commonwealth Scholarships
- Fulbright
- MEXT
- Australia Awards
- Mastercard Foundation programs
Scholarships for African PhD Students
PhD funding is often more widely available because universities actively recruit researchers.
Applicants should search for:
- Fully funded doctoral positions
- Research scholarships
- Graduate assistantships
- University fellowships
- Government research grants
A strong research proposal can significantly improve an applicant’s competitiveness.
Best Countries for African Students Seeking Scholarships
United Kingdom
The UK offers major programs such as:
- Chevening
- Commonwealth Scholarships
- University scholarships
The country is particularly attractive for master’s students because many master’s degrees can be completed in one year.
Germany
Germany is attractive because many public universities have low or no tuition for many programs.
Students can combine:
- Affordable university education
- DAAD scholarships
- Research opportunities
- Strong employment prospects
United States
The United States offers a large number of scholarships and funded graduate programs.
Funding can come through:
- Fulbright
- Universities
- Departments
- Research grants
- Teaching assistantships
- Research assistantships
Canada
Canadian universities offer numerous scholarships, fellowships, and graduate funding opportunities.
Funding is particularly common for master’s and PhD students.
Australia
Australia offers government-funded opportunities such as Australia Awards as well as university scholarships.
Japan
Japan’s MEXT Scholarship provides one of the country’s most important pathways for international students seeking funded study.
European Union
African students should explore European programs, especially Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters.
These programs can provide an opportunity to study across multiple European countries while receiving scholarship support.
How to Find Scholarships for African Students
Finding the right scholarship requires a systematic approach.
1. Search Government Scholarship Websites
Start with official scholarship providers.
Examples include:
- UK government scholarship programs
- German government and DAAD programs
- Australian government programs
- Japanese government MEXT programs
- US Fulbright programs
- European Union Erasmus+ programs
Avoid relying solely on social media posts or scholarship blogs.
2. Search University Websites
Use the university’s official website to search for:
International student scholarships
Fully funded scholarships
Graduate funding
International scholarships
Research assistantships
PhD funding
University websites are often the best source for current eligibility requirements.
How to Make Your Scholarship Application Competitive
Winning an international scholarship is about more than having good grades.
A competitive application should demonstrate a combination of:
- Academic excellence
- Leadership
- Professional experience
- Community involvement
- Research
- Career goals
- Measurable impact
Write a Strong Personal Statement
Your personal statement should tell a coherent story.
A useful structure is:
Background → Challenge → Action → Impact → Education → Future Goals
For example, an applicant might explain how they encountered a healthcare challenge in their community, developed an interest in health technology, conducted research, gained professional experience, and now want to study a specific master’s program to develop solutions that can be implemented in their home country.
This is much stronger than simply saying:
“I want to study abroad because I want a better education.”
Demonstrate Leadership
Scholarship committees often want applicants who will use their education to create positive change.
Leadership can include:
- Starting an organization
- Leading a professional project
- Organizing a community initiative
- Mentoring younger students
- Conducting research
- Developing technology
- Creating a business
- Leading a volunteer program
Leadership does not require a formal political or organizational title.
Quantify Your Achievements
Whenever possible, use numbers.
Instead of:
“I trained students in computer skills.”
Write:
“I organized a digital literacy program that trained 180 students in basic computer skills.”
Instead of:
“I helped my organization improve its reporting system.”
Write:
“I redesigned the reporting workflow, reducing monthly reporting time by approximately 30%.”
Specific evidence makes your achievements more convincing.
Common Mistakes African Students Should Avoid
Applying for Scholarships You Are Not Eligible For
Always verify nationality, degree, age, academic, and work-experience requirements.
Missing Deadlines
Some scholarship deadlines occur many months before university enrollment.
Using Generic Essays
Customize your personal statement for each scholarship.
Ignoring Recommendation Letters
Choose recommenders who know your academic or professional work.
Waiting Until the Last Minute
Academic transcripts, passports, language tests, and recommendation letters can take time.
Paying Someone to “Guarantee” a Scholarship
Legitimate scholarship programs do not guarantee selection in exchange for money.
Be cautious of anyone promising a guaranteed fully funded scholarship.
Scholarship Application Checklist
Before submitting your application, make sure you have:
- Checked your eligibility
- Confirmed the deadline
- Prepared your passport
- Obtained academic transcripts
- Prepared your CV
- Written your personal statement
- Obtained recommendation letters
- Completed language testing if required
- Prepared your research proposal if required
- Reviewed the application instructions
- Proofread every document
- Submitted the application successfully
- Saved a copy of your application
When Should African Students Apply for 2027 Scholarships?
Students planning to study abroad in 2027 should begin preparing as early as possible.
A useful timeline is:
12 Months Before Enrollment
Research universities and scholarships.
9–12 Months Before
Prepare your CV, personal statement, academic documents, and language tests.
6–9 Months Before
Request recommendation letters and begin submitting scholarship applications.
3–6 Months Before
Complete remaining applications and monitor application portals.
After Receiving an Award
Complete university enrollment, visa, accommodation, and travel arrangements.
Deadlines vary significantly. For example, the 2027–28 Chevening cycle opened in August 2026 and closes in October 2026, while many Erasmus Mundus programs generally accept applications between October and January.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country gives the most scholarships to African students?
There is no single country that offers the most scholarships to every African student. Major opportunities exist in the UK, Germany, United States, Australia, Japan, Canada, and across Europe.
Your nationality, degree level, field of study, and academic profile determine which programs you can apply for.
What is the best fully funded scholarship for African students?
There is no universal “best” scholarship. Chevening, Erasmus Mundus, DAAD, Commonwealth, Fulbright, MEXT, Australia Awards, and Mastercard Foundation programs are among the major opportunities African students should research.
Can African students study abroad without paying tuition?
Yes. Fully funded scholarships can cover tuition and other expenses, while some countries and universities also offer low-cost or tuition-free education to international students.
Can I get a scholarship with a low GPA?
Possibly. Some scholarships consider leadership, professional experience, research, community service, and career potential in addition to academic performance.
Can I get a scholarship without IELTS?
Some universities and scholarships offer exemptions or accept alternative proof of English proficiency. Requirements vary, so check the official program rules.
Can undergraduate students from Africa get fully funded scholarships?
Yes. Although fully funded undergraduate scholarships are highly competitive, opportunities exist through governments, universities, foundations, and international organizations.
Are scholarships available for African PhD students?
Yes. Fully funded PhD opportunities are available through universities, governments, research institutions, and international scholarship programs.
Final Thoughts
For African students, studying abroad does not have to mean taking on enormous financial debt. Study abroad scholarships for African students can provide access to leading universities and international educational opportunities while reducing or eliminating the cost of tuition and living expenses.
Programs such as Chevening, Erasmus Mundus, DAAD, Commonwealth Scholarships, Fulbright, MEXT, Australia Awards, and Mastercard Foundation opportunities provide important pathways for African students seeking undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and professional education abroad.
However, scholarship applications are highly competitive. The strongest applicants begin preparing early, research programs carefully, demonstrate measurable achievements, and tailor their applications to the objectives of each scholarship.
Start with scholarships for which you clearly meet the eligibility requirements. Build a strong CV, develop a compelling personal statement, secure strong recommendation letters, and keep track of every deadline.
Most importantly, do not apply to only one scholarship. Build a portfolio of realistic opportunities across different countries and universities.
For African students with the right preparation, academic profile, leadership experience, and determination, a fully funded international education can be much more achievable than it first appears.