Studying abroad in the UK is an aspiration for many African students looking to gain international exposure, world-class education and unforgettable experiences. However, the high costs of studying in the UK can be prohibitive.
Fortunately, various scholarships for Africans to study in UK exist that provide full funding, making a UK education accessible.
This blog post highlights the top 7 fully funded scholarships available in 2024 for African students hoping to study in the UK for undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Why Study in the UK?
The UK is globally renowned for its excellence in education and research. Some key benefits of studying in the UK include:
- World-leading universities – Universities like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London and UCL consistently rank among the top universities worldwide.
- Enriching student experience – The UK offers a vibrant, multicultural environment to live and study. Students can join diverse campus societies, events and activities.
- International recognition – Degrees from the UK are recognized and valued by employers and universities worldwide.
- Post-study work options – International students can stay back up to 2 years after graduation to find work through the Graduate Immigration Route.
- Shorter degree durations – Undergraduate degrees are typically 3 years compared to 4 years in other countries. Master’s degrees are 1 year long.
By studying in the UK, African students can gain valuable skills, global connections, improved career prospects and amazing memories.
Top 7 Fully Funded UK Scholarships for African Students
Here are the best scholarships providing full funding for African students wishing to study in the UK:
1. Commonwealth Scholarship
Provider: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, UK Government
The prestigious Commonwealth Scholarship is offered to citizens of developing Commonwealth countries, including many African nations, to pursue postgraduate study or doctoral degrees in the UK.
Covers:
- Airfare
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses
Applicable for: One-year Master’s or PhD at any UK university
Application deadline: Typically between March to July annually.
2. Chevening Scholarship
Provider: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
The Chevening Scholarship Program funds over 1500 students globally each year to pursue one-year Master’s degrees at any UK university. Citizens from over 50 African countries are eligible to apply.
Covers:
- Tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Airfare
- Additional grants
Applicable for: One-year Master’s degrees across all subjects
Application deadline: Between August to November annually
3. Rhodes Scholarship
Provider: Rhodes Trust
The prestigious Rhodes Scholarship allows outstanding African students to pursue postgraduate study at the world-famous University of Oxford. Around 100 scholarships are awarded annually.
Covers:
- Tuition fees
- College fees
- Living expenses
- Travel costs
Applicable for: Postgraduate study at University of Oxford
Application deadline: Usually in July/August annually
4. Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Provider: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship was established in 2000 through a donation by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and provides full funding for postgraduate study at the University of Cambridge. Around 80-100 scholarships are awarded annually.
Covers:
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses grant
- Airfare
- Discretionary funding
Applicable for: One year postgraduate study at University of Cambridge
Application deadline: Between September and October annually
5. African Scholarship at University of Edinburgh
Provider: University of Edinburgh
The African Scholarship at the University of Edinburgh provides full funding worth £25,000 to five African students for pursuing one-year Master’s study.
Covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Return airfare
- Visa expenses
Applicable for: One year Master’s degree in any subject
Application deadline: Typically in December annually
6. University of Nottingham Developing Solutions Scholarships
Provider: University of Nottingham
The Developing Solutions Scholarships provides partial to full tuition fee waivers for African students wishing to pursue Master’s study at the University of Nottingham.
Covers:
- Up to 100% of tuition fees
- Airfare
- Monthly stipend
Applicable for: Master’s degrees across all subjects
Application deadline: Around May annually
7. University of London Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
Provider: University of London
Citizens of developing Commonwealth countries can apply for this scholarship for Master’s study at a University of London institute.
Covers:
- Tuition fees
- Airfare
- Living expenses
Applicable for: Master’s study at a University of London institute
Application deadline: Typically between December and January annually
Other Scholarships for Africans to Study in UK
Some other great fully-funded scholarship options for African students include:
- MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program – For undergraduate degrees at select UK universities
- Oxford-Weidenfeld Scholarship – For postgraduate study at University of Oxford
- Glasgow Caledonian University Lloyds Scholarship – For postgraduate study at GCU, Scotland
- Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships – For Master’s and PhD across Commonwealth countries
- Africa Gareth Stevens Scholarship at University of Aberdeen – For one year Master’s degrees
- Dr Manmohan Singh Scholarship – For Master’s/PhD Indian students at University of Cambridge
- Africa Education Trust Scholarship – For undergraduate degree at selected UK universities
Application Tips
Here are some top tips for African students looking to win full scholarships for studying in the UK:
- Start early – Begin applications well before the deadlines to avoid last minute rush.
- Choose suitable programs – Apply for programs that align with your academic background and interests.
- Highlight achievements – Craft a strong personal statement and accentuate your accomplishments.
- Get excellent recommendations – Obtain reference letters from professors or employers that can vouch for you.
- Demonstrate leadership – Showcase extracurriculars, volunteering experience and leadership roles.
- Ace interviews – Prepare thoroughly and highlight your UK study motivation.
- Apply widely – Increase chances by applying to multiple eligible scholarship programs.
Why Study in the UK on Scholarship?
Here are some of the biggest benefits of studying in the UK fully funded through scholarships for African students:
- Alleviates financial constraints
- Enables focus on academics rather than finances
- Access to globally top-ranked universities
- Build an international network and connections
- Enhances career and further study prospects
- Opportunity for permanent work and migration after studies
- Personal development and unforgettable experiences
Conclusion
Top universities in the thriving UK education landscape are accessible for African students through fully funded scholarship options. These scholarships empower dedicated students by removing financial hurdles to realize their UK study ambitions and gain life-changing experiences.
African students hoping to study in the UK should thoroughly research the available scholarships to find ones they are eligible for and start the application process well in advance.