African Students Scholarships to Study Abroad

Studying abroad is one of the most transformative experiences a student can have — opening doors to world-class education, international networks, and global career opportunities. For many African students, the challenge has historically been access to financial resources that make overseas education possible. Fortunately, in 2026, a growing number of African students scholarships to study abroad are available that fully support tuition, living costs, travel expenses, and research endeavors. These scholarship programs are designed to empower African learners to achieve academic excellence and return as skilled professionals ready to contribute economically and socially to their communities.

Many of these scholarship opportunities offer substantial financial value, often exceeding the cost of attendance. For instance, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program can provide up to $100,000 USD per year for 4–5 years, the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship offers a value of approximately $85,000 USD over 2–3 years, and the Erasmus+ Scholarship awards between €10,000–€25,000 per year depending on the host country and study level. These funds cover not only tuition but also accommodation, health insurance, monthly living stipends, and sometimes even travel allowances — relieving students and families from financial stress.

Beyond financial support, these scholarships are designed to develop leadership, academic rigor, and global awareness. African students selected for these programs are often given access to mentorship networks, research opportunities, career support, and international exchange experiences. Whether your goal is to pursue an undergraduate degree, a master’s degree, or a doctoral research project, the African students scholarships to study abroad listed below represent pathways that can truly change your academic and professional trajectory.

Scholarship Summary

1. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Courses Offered and Their Advantages

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers scholarships for undergraduate and graduate studies in fields such as Business Administration, Engineering, Computer Science, Public Health, Agriculture, and Social Sciences.
Advantages:

• Holistic academic and leadership support

• Mentorship and internships

• Career placement assistance

Program Period – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

• 4–5 years for undergraduate and graduate studies depending on program length.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

• Full tuition and fees.

• Monthly living stipend.

• Travel costs and health insurance.

• Leadership training and mentorship.

Eligibility Criteria – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

• Must be a citizen of an African country.

• Demonstrated academic excellence and leadership potential.

• Admission offer from a partner university.

How to Apply – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

• Apply directly to participating partner universities or through the program portal.

• Submit academic transcripts, essays, letters of recommendation.

Website for Apply – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

👉 Official Website: https://mastercardfdn.org

2. Mandela Rhodes Scholarships

Courses Offered and Their Advantages

The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship supports postgraduate study and leadership development in fields such as Public Policy, Business, Education, and Social Sciences at South African institutions.
Advantages:

• Deep leadership mentorship.

• Networking with African leaders.

• Cultural exchange and life skills development.

Program Period – Mandela Rhodes Scholarships

• 2–3 years depending on the degree program.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits – Mandela Rhodes Scholarships

• Approximately $85,000 USD over the course of the program.

• Full tuition and academic fees.

• Living stipend and travel support.

• Leadership and professional development programs.

Eligibility Criteria – Mandela Rhodes Scholarships

• Citizens of African countries aged 19–29.

• Strong academic records.

• Demonstrated leadership and community involvement.

How to Apply – Mandela Rhodes Scholarships

• Complete the online application via the official portal.

• Provide academic transcripts, CV, motivational essays, references.

Website for Apply – Mandela Rhodes Scholarships

👉 Official Website: https://mandelarhodes.org

3. Erasmus+ Scholarships

Courses Offered and Their Advantages

The Erasmus+ Scholarship program supports undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies across many European countries and universities — in areas including Engineering, Health Sciences, Economics, Humanities, and Environmental Studies.
Advantages:

• Multi-nation study experience.

• Opportunities for cultural immersion.

• Strong academic networks with global institutions.

Program Period – Erasmus+ Scholarships

• 1–4 years depending on level of study.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits – Erasmus+ Scholarships

• Up to €10,000–€25,000 per year depending on host country.

• Tuition support or waiver.

• Travel and living support.

Eligibility Criteria – Erasmus+ Scholarships

• Must have acceptance to an Erasmus+ partner university.

• Demonstrated academic performance.

• Motivated to participate in cross-cultural academic exchange.

How to Apply – Erasmus+ Scholarships

• Apply through your chosen European university’s Erasmus+ application system.

• Provide academic transcripts, motivation statement, and language proof where required.

Website for Apply – Erasmus+ Scholarships

👉 Official Website: https://erasmusplus.ec.europa.eu

4. Chevening Scholarships

Courses Offered and Their Advantages

Chevening Scholarships support one-year master’s degree programs at UK universities in fields including international relations, public policy, law, media, and economics.
Advantages:

• Prestigious UK government support.

• Leadership and networking workshops.

• Access to alumni community with global influence.

Program Period – Chevening Scholarships

• 1 year master’s study in the UK.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits – Chevening Scholarships

• Full tuition fees covered.

• Living stipend and travel costs.

• Visa allowance and networking events.

Eligibility Criteria – Chevening Scholarships

• Citizen of a Chevening-eligible country (including many African nations).

• Bachelor’s degree and professional experience.

• Demonstrated leadership potential.

How to Apply – Chevening Scholarships

• Apply online via the official Chevening portal.

• Submit personal statements, references, and academic transcripts.

Website for Apply – Chevening Scholarships

👉 Official Website: https://www.chevening.org

5. DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships

Courses Offered and Their Advantages

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarships for both master’s and PhD level study, including Research, STEM, Social Sciences, and Agricultural Sciences. Some DAAD scholarships are specifically designed for African students and allow study either in Germany or in African universities through partnerships.
Advantages:

• Strong research infrastructure.

• Monthly stipends and travel allowances.

• Engagement with German and global research networks.

Program Period – DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships

• 1–4 years depending on level of study and research program.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits – DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships

• Monthly stipend up to €1,300.

• Travel support and health insurance.

• Research and academic materials funding.

Eligibility Criteria – DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships

• Must be an African student with a qualifying bachelor’s or master’s degree (for PhD).

• Academic excellence and research potential.

• Admission to a partner institution.

How to Apply – DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships

• Apply through the DAAD portal or partner institution systems.

• Provide transcripts, CV, motivation letters, and research plans.

Website for Apply – DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships

👉 Official Website: https://www.daad.de

Final Thoughts

In 2026, African students scholarships to study abroad offer life-changing opportunities for driven and ambitious learners. These programs not only provide financial aid but also leadership training, networks, research experience, and global exposure. Whether you aspire to study in North America, Europe, Africa, or beyond, there are scholarships tailored for African talent at every academic level.

Success in landing these scholarships depends on strong academic records, clear goals, compelling motivation essays, and timely applications. If you need help with drafting scholarship essays, preparing SOPs (Statements of Purpose), improving your application profile, or creating document checklists — I can help you with all of that!