London, as a global educational hub, offers a plethora of scholarship opportunities tailored for African students aiming to further their studies. These scholarships, provided by universities, governmental bodies, and private organizations, are designed to attract and support talented individuals from Africa, fostering diversity and academic excellence. This article delves into some of the top scholarship programs available in London for African students, highlighting their objectives, eligibility criteria, and application processes.
Chevening Scholarships
The Chevening Scholarships are among the most prestigious awards available to international students, including those from Africa. Funded by the UK government, these scholarships offer full financial support for individuals pursuing a one-year master’s degree in any subject at a UK university. The program aims to develop global leaders by providing a platform for exceptional individuals to study in the UK and subsequently contribute to their home countries. Applicants are selected based on their leadership potential, academic excellence, and a strong commitment to effecting positive change in their communities. The application process typically involves submitting academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a series of essays detailing the applicant’s leadership experience and future aspirations. More information can be found on the official Chevening website.
Commonwealth Scholarships
The Commonwealth Scholarships are targeted at students from Commonwealth countries, many of which are in Africa. These scholarships are funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID) and are intended for individuals who could not otherwise afford to study in the UK. They cover a range of study levels, including master’s and PhD programs, and are awarded based on academic merit and the potential to contribute to the development of the candidate’s home country. Applicants are required to demonstrate a strong academic background, a clear plan of study, and a commitment to contributing to the development of their home country upon completion of their studies. Detailed information on eligibility and the application process is available on the Commonwealth Scholarships website.
GREAT Scholarships
The GREAT Scholarships program is a collaborative initiative between the UK government and UK higher education institutions. It offers scholarships to students from selected countries, including Egypt, Ghana, and Kenya. Each scholarship is worth a minimum of £10,000 and is intended to cover tuition fees for a one-year postgraduate course. The aim is to provide opportunities for students who have the potential to become leaders, decision-makers, and opinion formers in their home countries. Applicants are typically required to have an offer of admission from a participating UK university and to demonstrate academic excellence and a passion for their chosen field of study. Further details can be found on the Study UK website.
Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarships
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation, established to support good governance and leadership in Africa, offers scholarships for African students to study in the UK. In partnership with institutions such as the London Business School and SOAS University of London, the foundation provides scholarships for programs related to governance and development. These scholarships cover full tuition fees and, in some cases, provide a stipend for living expenses. Applicants are expected to have a strong academic background and a demonstrated interest in African governance and development issues. Information on specific scholarships and application procedures is available on the respective university websites.
The Bartlett Promise Sub-Saharan Africa Master’s Scholarship
University College London’s Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment offers The Bartlett Promise Sub-Saharan Africa Master’s Scholarship. This scholarship aims to enable students from Sub-Saharan Africa to pursue master’s programs at The Bartlett. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, a living stipend, and additional expenses such as flights and visa costs. Applicants must be nationals of a Sub-Saharan African country and have an offer of admission to a Bartlett master’s program. The selection process considers academic excellence, financial need, and the potential to contribute to the development of the applicant’s home country. More details can be found on The Bartlett’s official website.
London School of Economics (LSE) Scholarships
The London School of Economics offers several scholarships specifically for African students. The Undergraduate Support Scheme provides financial assistance to overseas students based on financial need. For graduate students, LSE offers various awards, some of which are region-specific, including scholarships for African nationals. The value of support ranges from partial to full tuition fee coverage. Applicants are assessed based on financial need, academic merit, and the potential to contribute to the LSE community. Detailed information on available scholarships and application procedures is available on the LSE website.
London Business School African Scholarship
London Business School offers the African Scholarship, funded by alumni and friends of the school. This scholarship, valued at £20,000, is available to all successful MBA applicants who are nationals of African countries. Eligible candidates are automatically considered for this award upon admission. The scholarship aims to support talented African students who can contribute to the diversity and dynamism of the MBA program. More information can be found on the London Business School website.
Imperial College London Africa Regional Scholarship
Imperial College Business School offers the Africa Regional Scholarship to African students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and potential. Applicants who are residents of any of the 54 African countries are automatically considered for this scholarship upon applying to eligible programs. The scholarship aims to encourage diversity and support talented individuals from Africa in pursuing their studies at Imperial College. Further details are available on the Imperial College London website.
King’s College London Africa International PGR Scholarships
King’s College London has offered the Africa International Postgraduate Research (PGR) Scholarships to support African students pursuing research degrees. While the 2022-23 application cycle has closed, prospective students are encouraged to check King’s College London’s official website for updates on future scholarship opportunities. These scholarships typically cover tuition fees and provide a stipend for living expenses, aiming to support outstanding African researchers in various fields.
University of East Anglia David Sainsbury Scholarships in Global Plant Health
The University of East Anglia offers the David Sainsbury Scholarships in Global Plant Health, providing funding opportunities for students enrolled in the MSc in Global Plant Health. These scholarships aim to support exceptional students in addressing global