Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships for Africans in 2026 — Study Abroad for Free
Introduction
Every year thousands of African students miss out on life changing scholarship opportunities simply because they did not know they existed. The truth is, right now in 2026, universities and governments across the world are actively looking for talented African students to study at their institutions — completely free of charge.
These are not rumors. These are real, fully funded scholarships that cover your tuition, accommodation, flights, and even give you a monthly living allowance. All you need is the right information and the courage to apply.
In this post SasaApply has compiled the top 10 fully funded scholarships available to African students in 2026. Whether you are a fresh graduate, a working professional, or someone who has always dreamed of studying abroad — there is something on this list for you.
Bookmark this page and share it with someone who needs it.
What Is a Fully Funded Scholarship?
Before we dive into the list it is important to understand what fully funded means. A fully funded scholarship covers everything including:
University tuition fees, international flight tickets to and from your home country, monthly living stipend to cover food and personal expenses, accommodation on or near campus, health insurance for the duration of your studies, and in some cases a laptop or research allowance.
In simple terms — you pay absolutely nothing. You just focus on studying and building your future.
1. Chevening Scholarship — United Kingdom
The Chevening Scholarship is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships in the world. It is funded by the UK government and targets future leaders, influencers, and decision makers from across the globe including Africa.
Every year hundreds of African students receive this scholarship to study any master’s degree at any UK university of their choice. The scholarship covers full tuition, flights, accommodation, and a generous monthly allowance.
Who can apply: African students with a bachelor’s degree and at least two years of work experience.
Deadline: Usually November each year.
Fields covered: All fields of study.
Why it is special: You get to choose any university and any course in the entire United Kingdom.
2. Commonwealth Scholarship — United Kingdom
The Commonwealth Scholarship is designed specifically for students from Commonwealth countries — which includes most African nations. It targets students who want to pursue master’s and PhD degrees at top UK universities.
Unlike many scholarships this one specifically prioritizes candidates from low and middle income countries making it one of the most accessible opportunities for African students.
Who can apply: Citizens of Commonwealth member countries including Tanzania, Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda, Zambia and more.
Deadline: Usually December each year.
Fields covered: All academic disciplines.
Why it is special: Specifically designed for developing country students — Africans have a strong chance.
3. DAAD Scholarship — Germany
The German Academic Exchange Service known as DAAD is one of the largest scholarship organizations in the world. Every year it funds thousands of African students to study in Germany at both master’s and PhD level.
Germany is one of the best countries to study in because most public universities charge zero tuition fees even without a scholarship. The DAAD scholarship adds a monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel allowance on top of that.
Who can apply: African graduates with strong academic records.
Deadline: Varies by program — usually October to December.
Fields covered: Engineering, sciences, arts, social sciences, agriculture, and more.
Why it is special: Germany has world class universities and zero tuition fees at public universities.
4. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is one of the largest scholarship programs specifically designed for African students. It partners with top universities across Africa, USA, Canada, and other countries to provide fully funded education to talented but financially disadvantaged African youth.
This scholarship goes beyond just funding — it provides mentorship, leadership training, and career support to help scholars become transformative leaders on the African continent.
Who can apply: African students with demonstrated financial need and academic excellence.
Deadline: Varies by partner university.
Fields covered: All fields depending on the partner university.
Why it is special: Specifically for Africans and includes mentorship and leadership development.
5. Erasmus Mundus Scholarship — European Union
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees program is funded by the European Union and allows African students to study in multiple European countries as part of one master’s degree program.
Imagine spending your first semester in France, your second in Germany, and your third in Spain — all fully funded. This is exactly what the Erasmus Mundus program offers.
Who can apply: Students from any African country with a bachelor’s degree.
Deadline: Usually January to February each year.
Fields covered: Wide range including technology, environment, business, arts, and sciences.
Why it is special: You study in multiple European countries — incredible cultural and academic experience.
6. Australia Awards Scholarship
The Australia Awards Scholarship is funded by the Australian government and targets students from developing countries including many African nations. It provides full funding for undergraduate and postgraduate studies at Australian universities.
Australia is known for its high quality education system, safe environment, and multicultural society making it one of the most desirable study destinations in the world.
Who can apply: Citizens of eligible African countries — check the official list on the Australia Awards website.
Deadline: Usually April to June each year.
Fields covered: Priority given to agriculture, education, health, infrastructure, and governance.
Why it is special: Australia is one of the safest and most welcoming countries for international students.
7. Korean Government Scholarship Program — South Korea
South Korea has become one of the fastest growing scholarship destinations for African students. The Korean Government Scholarship Program known as KGSP provides full funding for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degrees at top Korean universities.
The scholarship includes full tuition, monthly allowance, settlement allowance, Korean language training, and round trip airfare. South Korea is also one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world making it perfect for students in technology, engineering, and sciences.
Who can apply: African students under the age of 40 with good academic records.
Deadline: Usually February to March each year.
Fields covered: All fields of study.
Why it is special: Includes free Korean language training before your program starts.
8. Japanese Government MEXT Scholarship
The Japanese Government MEXT Scholarship is one of the oldest and most respected scholarship programs in the world. It has been funding international students including thousands of Africans for decades.
Japan is known for its world class universities, cutting edge research facilities, and unique culture. The MEXT scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, and round trip airfare.
Who can apply: African students who meet the academic requirements set by the Japanese embassy in their country.
Deadline: Usually May to June each year — apply through your local Japanese embassy.
Fields covered: Sciences, engineering, education, social sciences, and humanities.
Why it is special: Japan is one of the world leaders in technology and research — perfect for STEM students.
9. Chinese Government Scholarship — CSC
China has become one of the top destinations for African students and the Chinese Government Scholarship funded by the China Scholarship Council is the main pathway to get there. Thousands of African students study in China every year through this program.
The scholarship covers full tuition, accommodation on campus, monthly living allowance, and comprehensive medical insurance. China also offers free Mandarin language training for students who need it.
Who can apply: African students at all levels — undergraduate, master’s, and PhD.
Deadline: Usually March to April each year.
Fields covered: All fields including medicine, engineering, agriculture, business, and arts.
Why it is special: China has over 300 universities accepting international students and the cost of living is very affordable.
10. African Development Bank Scholarship — Japan
The African Development Bank in partnership with the Japanese government offers the ADB-JSP Scholarship to African students who want to pursue master’s degrees in Japan. This scholarship specifically targets professionals who are already working in development related fields.
It is perfect for Tanzanians and other Africans who are working in government, NGOs, or development organizations and want to upgrade their qualifications.
Who can apply: African citizens under 45 years old currently employed in development work with at least two years of work experience.
Deadline: Usually January to February each year.
Fields covered: Economics, business, science, technology, agriculture, and social sciences.
Why it is special: Combines Japanese education with African development focus — highly respected qualification.
How To Apply For Any Scholarship — Quick Tips
Applying for scholarships can feel overwhelming but these simple tips will give you the best chance of success.
Start early — most scholarships require several documents that take time to prepare. Give yourself at least three months before the deadline.
Write a strong personal statement — this is the most important part of your application. Explain your story, your goals, and why you deserve this opportunity. Be genuine and specific.
Get strong recommendation letters — choose referees who know your work well and can speak specifically about your abilities and character.
Meet all requirements — read the eligibility criteria carefully and make sure you qualify before applying. Do not waste time applying for scholarships you do not qualify for.
Apply to multiple scholarships — do not put all your eggs in one basket. Apply to at least three to five scholarships at the same time.
Final Words
The opportunity to study abroad for free exists. It is real. And it is available to you right now.
The only question is whether you will take action or let another year pass by watching others change their lives while you stay in the same place.
SasaApply exists to make sure you never miss an opportunity again. Bookmark our website, follow us on social media, and share this post with every student and graduate you know.
Your future starts with one application. Start today.
Disclaimer: Scholarship deadlines and requirements change regularly. Always visit the official scholarship website to confirm current details before applying. SasaApply is not affiliated with any of the scholarships listed above.
💬 Have a Question or Comment?
Contact us directly on WhatsApp — we reply fast!