Welcome to ScholarCareHub.com.ng, Here on this page, we share the latest information about the Top 10 Fully-Funded Scholarships for African Students in 2026.
Paying for a university education abroad can be difficult, especially when tuition fees, accommodation, food, health insurance, transportation and other expenses are added together. For many talented African students, however, scholarships can make international education much more affordable.
Fully funded scholarships are particularly valuable because they can cover most or all of the major costs connected with studying. Depending on the programme, financial support may include tuition fees, living expenses, accommodation, travel, health insurance, visa-related costs or other allowances.
However, one important point is often overlooked: “fully funded” does not mean every scholarship covers exactly the same expenses. The benefits, eligibility rules, eligible countries, study levels and application deadlines can differ considerably.
This guide highlights 10 major scholarship programmes that African students can consider for the 2026/2027 and upcoming 2027/2028 admission cycles. Some programmes are open to students from many African countries, while others have country, academic-level or programme-specific restrictions.
Important: Always confirm the current eligibility requirements and deadline on the scholarship provider's official website before submitting an application.
What Is a Fully Funded Scholarship?
A fully funded scholarship is an award designed to provide substantial financial support for a student's education.
Depending on the programme, the scholarship may cover:
- Full or substantial tuition fees
- Monthly living allowance
- Accommodation or housing support
- Travel or airfare
- Health insurance
- Visa-related expenses
- Books and academic materials
- Research or study-related expenses
- Orientation or leadership programmes
The exact package depends on the scholarship.
For example, Türkiye Scholarships lists tuition, accommodation, health insurance, Turkish language training, flight support and monthly stipends among its benefits. The Rhodes Scholarship covers Oxford course fees and provides a stipend, with additional support for visa-related costs and travel.
Therefore, students should never assume that every scholarship advertised as “fully funded” provides identical benefits.
1. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is one of the major scholarship initiatives supporting talented young Africans who face financial or other barriers to higher education.
The programme works through partner universities and organisations rather than through one universal application form.
Study destination
Partner institutions are located in Africa and other regions, including selected universities in North America and Europe.
Who can apply?
Eligibility depends on the particular Mastercard Foundation partner. Applicants may be considered at secondary, undergraduate or master's level depending on the programme.
The Foundation states that its Scholars Program currently supports students at the secondary, undergraduate and master's levels, but not PhD candidates.
What does it cover?
Support can include:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Books and academic materials
- Academic support
- Mentoring
- Leadership development
- Counselling and psychosocial support
- Other financial assistance depending on the partner programme
The exact value and package are determined by the participating institution.
For example, current partner programmes at institutions such as the University of Cambridge provide comprehensive support including tuition and living-related expenses, while other partners have their own scholarship structures.
How to apply
There is no single application process for every Mastercard Foundation scholarship.
Students should:
- Visit the official Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program website.
- Check the list of participating institutions.
- Choose a programme for which they meet the requirements.
- Follow the application instructions provided by that institution.
- Submit the required admission and scholarship documents before the stated deadline.
Important: A student should not send money to an individual claiming to be able to “secure” a Mastercard Foundation scholarship.
2. Chevening Scholarships – United Kingdom
Chevening Scholarships are funded by the UK government and support outstanding applicants from eligible countries to undertake a one-year master's degree in the United Kingdom.
The programme describes its scholarships as fully funded.
Study destination
United Kingdom
Level
One-year master's degree
What does it cover?
The Chevening award is designed to cover the major costs associated with studying in the UK, allowing successful scholars to concentrate on their academic and professional development.
The exact award terms are provided to successful applicants for their particular scholarship cycle.
Who should consider Chevening?
Applicants normally need to demonstrate:
- Leadership potential
- Academic ability
- Relevant professional experience
- A clear career plan
- Evidence of achievements and impact
- A commitment to returning or contributing to their home country according to the programme's conditions
There is no upper age limit stated by Chevening.
Application tip
Do not treat the Chevening application like a normal university admission application.
Your essays should demonstrate what you have actually done, the impact you have created, what you learned from those experiences and how your future plans connect with the scholarship's objectives.
Chevening applications are competitive, so applicants should read the current official guidance carefully before submitting.
3. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships – Europe
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters are international master's programmes delivered by partnerships of universities and institutions in different countries.
They are particularly interesting for African students who want an international study experience because many programmes involve studying in more than one country.
Level
Master's degree
Where can you study?
The exact countries depend on the particular Erasmus Mundus programme.
A student may spend different parts of the programme at different partner universities.
Scholarship support
Under the Erasmus+ programme rules, an Erasmus Mundus scholarship can be calculated at €1,400 per month for the duration of the master's programme, subject to the applicable rules and maximum duration.
The overall scholarship package can also include programme-related financial support depending on the specific master's programme.
How to apply
Unlike some scholarships, Erasmus Mundus applications are generally submitted to the individual master's programme.
You should:
- Search the official Erasmus Mundus catalogue.
- Choose programmes related to your academic background.
- Read the specific admission requirements.
- Prepare your academic documents.
- Prepare your CV and motivation letter.
- Submit the application before the programme deadline.
Important 2026 update
Application periods differ by programme. The Erasmus+ programme information indicates that the next funding round is expected toward the end of the year, so students planning for future intakes should monitor the official programme catalogue rather than relying on old deadlines.
4. 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.
However, African students should understand that Fulbright administration is country-specific. The requirements and application process can differ depending on the applicant's country.
Study destination
United States
Level
Generally graduate study and research, depending on the country programme.
Financial support
Funding arrangements can include major study-related costs such as tuition, living support, travel and health-related coverage, but the exact award package and eligibility requirements should be confirmed through the Fulbright programme responsible for your country.
What makes Fulbright different?
The programme places considerable emphasis on academic achievement, leadership, cultural exchange and the applicant's potential contribution to their home country.
Applicants should therefore avoid submitting generic personal statements.
Your application should clearly explain:
- Your academic interests
- Your research or study objectives
- Why the proposed field matters
- Your relevant experience
- Your future plans
- How you intend to use your education after the programme
For African applicants, the appropriate Fulbright office or commission for their country should always be treated as the authoritative source for current requirements and deadlines.
5. Rhodes Scholarship – University of Oxford
The Rhodes Scholarship supports postgraduate study at the University of Oxford.
It is open through different regional and country constituencies, including opportunities for applicants from parts of Africa.
Study destination
University of Oxford, United Kingdom
Level
Postgraduate study
What does it cover?
For the 2026/2027 academic year, the Rhodes Trust states that the scholarship provides an annual stipend of £21,060, paid in monthly instalments.
The scholarship also covers Oxford University course fees.
Additional support includes the Oxford application fee, student visa and International Health Surcharge costs, and two economy-class flights to and from the UK.
The stipend is intended to cover living expenses, including accommodation, although the Trust notes that it is not designed to cover partners or dependants.
Who should consider it?
Applicants should examine the specific eligibility rules for their Rhodes constituency.
The selection process considers factors such as:
- Academic achievement
- Leadership
- Character
- Service
- Commitment to making a positive contribution
Application advice
Do not simply list certificates and academic grades.
A strong application should provide evidence of what you have contributed, problems you have worked on, leadership situations you have experienced and what you hope to accomplish through postgraduate study.
6. Commonwealth Master's Scholarships – United Kingdom
Commonwealth Master's Scholarships are designed for candidates from eligible low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries who want to undertake full-time master's study in the UK.
Several African countries are included in the eligible-country list, including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa, Zambia and others.
Level
Master's degree
Study destination
United Kingdom
Who can apply?
Eligibility is limited to citizens of participating Commonwealth countries and is subject to the current scholarship rules.
Applicants should also meet the academic and financial requirements stated for the relevant scholarship cycle.
What is the scholarship intended to support?
The programme is designed to help talented candidates who would otherwise be unable to afford postgraduate study in the UK.
The scholarship package and conditions depend on the particular award.
Application process
Applicants should:
- Confirm that their country is eligible.
- Check the current eligible courses.
- Identify the appropriate nominating agency or application route.
- Prepare academic and supporting documents.
- Submit the application through the required system before the deadline.
For the 2027/2028 Master's Scholarships, the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission currently lists an application period beginning in September 2026 and closing in October 2026.
Because deadlines can change, applicants should verify the current date before applying.
7. DAAD EPOS Scholarships – Germany
The German Academic Exchange Service, commonly known as DAAD, offers several scholarship programmes.
One important option for students from developing countries is the Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) programme.
It is different from simply saying “DAAD scholarship” because EPOS applies to selected postgraduate courses.
Study destination
Germany
Level
Primarily postgraduate study, depending on the approved programme.
Who can apply?
Typical requirements include:
- A relevant bachelor's degree
- Strong academic performance
- At least two years of professional experience
- A development-related motivation
- Meeting the academic and language requirements of the selected programme
The exact requirements can differ by course.
Scholarship value
Current DAAD EPOS information lists:
- Monthly payments of €992 for graduates
- €1,400 per month for doctoral candidates from February 2026
- Insurance contributions
- Travel allowance where applicable
- Possible rent subsidy
- Possible family allowance under certain conditions
The funding duration can range from approximately 12 to 42 months depending on the study programme.
Important advice
Do not apply to a random German university and assume it is automatically covered by DAAD EPOS.
You must first identify an eligible EPOS programme and carefully follow that programme's application requirements.
8. Türkiye Scholarships – Türkiye
Türkiye Scholarships is a government-funded scholarship programme for international students.
It is available at several educational levels, including undergraduate, master's and doctoral study.
What does it cover?
The official programme currently lists:
- University and department placement
- Tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Accommodation
- Health insurance
- One-year Turkish language course
- One-time flight ticket
The current monthly stipend listed by the programme is:
- Undergraduate: ₺6,500
- Master's: ₺9,500
- PhD: ₺13,000
These amounts can be changed by the programme, so applicants should verify the current figures during each application cycle.
Who can apply?
International students who meet the programme's academic, age and programme-specific requirements may apply.
Different educational levels have different eligibility rules.
Application period
Türkiye Scholarships normally uses an annual application window. Applicants should check the official application portal when the next cycle opens instead of relying on old social-media announcements.
Why African students should consider it
The programme can be particularly useful for students who want a scholarship that combines tuition, accommodation, health insurance, travel and a living stipend within one government-funded scheme.
9. MEXT Scholarship – Japan
The Japanese Government, through the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), offers scholarships to international students.
The programme covers different categories of students, so applicants must identify the category that matches their academic plans.
Study destination
Japan
Possible study levels
Depending on the category, opportunities may include:
- Research students
- Master's and doctoral study
- Undergraduate study
- Teacher training
- Other specialised programmes
What does it cover?
The official Study in Japan information lists:
- Monthly scholarship payments
- Tuition exemption
- Round-trip airfare under the applicable recommendation route
The monthly amount depends on the category of study.
How to apply
There are generally two major routes:
- Embassy recommendation
- University recommendation
The available route can depend on the applicant's country, programme and institution.
African applicants should therefore check the Japanese embassy or appropriate official authority in their country for the current application instructions.
Application tip
MEXT applications can involve detailed academic and research documents.
For research-level applicants, a well-developed research proposal can be particularly important. Avoid submitting a vague proposal that merely describes a broad topic.
10. Gates Cambridge Scholarship – United Kingdom
It is open to international applicants, including qualified African students.
Study destination
University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
Level
Postgraduate study
What does it cover?
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is described by the programme as a full-cost scholarship.
The package can cover the main costs associated with studying at Cambridge, with additional funding available in certain circumstances.
Applicants should check the current Cambridge course eligibility and scholarship conditions because not every postgraduate course is necessarily eligible.
Who should consider it?
Applicants need to meet both:
- The academic/admission requirements of the University of Cambridge.
- The scholarship's selection requirements.
A student should therefore treat university admission and scholarship selection as related but separate parts of the application.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Scholarship award values, tuition coverage, living allowances, travel support, accommodation, insurance, eligibility requirements, participating countries, eligible courses and application deadlines can change from one scholarship cycle to another.
This article is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Scholarship award values, tuition coverage, living allowances, travel support, accommodation, insurance, eligibility requirements, participating countries, eligible courses and application deadlines can change from one scholarship cycle to another.
How to Choose the Right Scholarship
Having ten scholarship names is not enough.
The most useful question is:
Which scholarship matches your academic level, field, country, experience and career plans?
Use the following checklist before applying.
1. Check your study level
Some scholarships are designed mainly for master's students, while others cover undergraduate, master's or doctoral study.
Do not apply simply because a scholarship is advertised as “fully funded.”
2. Confirm your country eligibility
Eligibility can differ by country.
A scholarship available to applicants from Ghana may not necessarily be available to applicants from Nigeria, Cameroon or another African country.
3. Check the course requirements
A scholarship may be available only for specific subjects or participating programmes.
Always check whether your intended course is eligible.
4. Calculate the actual funding
Look beyond the words “fully funded.”
Ask:
- Is tuition covered?
- Is accommodation included?
- Is there a monthly stipend?
- Is airfare covered?
- Is health insurance included?
- Are visa costs covered?
- Are dependants covered?
- Is the award renewable?
- Are there costs the student must pay personally?
This prevents unpleasant financial surprises after receiving an offer.
Documents You Should Prepare Early
Many scholarship applications require similar documents.
Prepare the following where applicable:
- International passport
- Academic certificates
- Academic transcripts
- Curriculum vitae
- Personal statement
- Motivation letter
- Research proposal
- Recommendation letters
- Proof of employment or work experience
- English-language test results where required
- Evidence of leadership or community involvement
- Proof of identity
- University admission documents
Not every scholarship requires all of these.
Always follow the official checklist for your specific programme.
How to Make Your Scholarship Application Stronger
Show evidence instead of making general claims
Instead of writing:
“I am a great leader who wants to change my community.”
Explain what you actually did.
For example, describe:
- The problem you identified
- What action you took
- Who benefited
- What challenges you faced
- What result you achieved
- What you learned
Specific evidence is more useful than empty descriptions.
Connect your past to your future
Your application should tell a logical story.
Your previous education and experience should connect with the course you want to study and your plans after graduation.
Do not copy scholarship essays
Using another person's successful essay as your own can weaken your application and may violate the scholarship's rules.
Your experiences, goals and achievements should be presented in your own words.
Start before the deadline
Scholarship applications often require several documents and may involve university admission before the scholarship application is completed.
Starting early gives you time to:
- Request transcripts
- Contact referees
- Prepare a strong CV
- Improve your personal statement
- Complete admission requirements
- Check your documents
- Correct mistakes before submission
How to Avoid Scholarship Scams
Scholarship scams are a serious problem.
Be careful if someone claims that you have “won” a scholarship but asks you to pay money before releasing the award.
Be especially cautious about:
- Unofficial WhatsApp application agents
- Fake scholarship portals
- Requests for OTPs or banking passwords
- Requests for cryptocurrency payments
- “Guaranteed scholarship” offers
- Fake admission letters
- People promising selection for a fee
- Websites pretending to be government agencies or universities
A genuine scholarship can still have legitimate application or university admission fees in some circumstances, so do not automatically assume that every payment request is a scam.
Instead, verify the payment directly through the official university or scholarship provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all these scholarships completely free?
Not necessarily in exactly the same way.
The term “fully funded” is commonly used for scholarships that provide substantial financial support, but the actual coverage varies.
Some programmes cover tuition and living expenses, while others may also cover travel, insurance or visa costs.
Read the official award conditions before accepting an offer.
Can Nigerian students apply for these scholarships?
Yes. Nigerian students are eligible for several of the programmes listed, subject to the specific country and programme requirements.
For example, Nigeria is included among the countries eligible for the Commonwealth Master's Scholarships.
However, eligibility should always be confirmed for the particular scholarship cycle.
Do I need IELTS for a fully funded scholarship?
Not always.
English-language requirements differ between scholarship programmes and universities.
Some institutions may accept alternative evidence of English proficiency or provide exemptions in specific circumstances.
Never assume that IELTS is either universally required or universally waived.
Can undergraduate students get fully funded scholarships?
Yes.
Some programmes provide undergraduate opportunities, including certain Mastercard Foundation and Türkiye Scholarships programmes.
However, several major international scholarships, such as Chevening, Rhodes and Gates Cambridge, are primarily postgraduate scholarships.
Is scholarship selection guaranteed if I meet all the requirements?
No.
Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee an award.
Many fully funded scholarships receive large numbers of applications and select only a limited number of candidates.
Can I apply for more than one scholarship?
Yes, in many cases you can apply for multiple scholarships, provided that each programme's rules allow it.
Applying for several suitable scholarships can help you avoid depending entirely on one application.
However, each application should be prepared specifically for the scholarship rather than copied from another application.
Final Thoughts
Fully funded scholarships can significantly reduce the financial barriers associated with studying abroad, but finding the right opportunity requires more than searching for a list of scholarship names.
African students should look carefully at the study level, country eligibility, course requirements, scholarship coverage, application route and deadline before submitting an application.
The scholarships discussed in this guide include opportunities connected with the United Kingdom, United States, Germany, Japan, Türkiye, Europe and other international study destinations. Their funding structures are not identical, so applicants should always verify the current official information before making academic or financial decisions.
Most importantly, do not wait until the final day to begin preparing.
Build your academic profile, gain relevant experience, prepare your documents, develop a strong personal statement and monitor official scholarship announcements regularly.
A scholarship application should be treated as a serious academic application—not as a form to complete quickly.
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