For many international students, studying abroad can be a life-changing experience. However, the cost of tuition and living expenses can be a significant barrier. Fortunately, there are numerous prestigious scholarships available that can help cover these costs. This article highlights the top 10 scholarships for international students in 2024/25, focusing on opportunities that are particularly beneficial for African students.
We will provide detailed information on the benefits, application processes, and deadlines for each scholarship, along with application links.
1. Chevening Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships are funded by the UK government and offer full financial support for students to pursue a one-year master’s degree in any subject at any UK university. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel costs, and a monthly stipend.
Application Process
Applicants must have an undergraduate degree, at least two years of work experience, and demonstrate leadership potential. The application involves submitting an online form, references, and a personal statement.
Opening Date: August 2.2024
Application Deadline: November 7, 2024
To Apply: Click Here Visit Chevening Scholarships Website
2. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The Fulbright Program provides full funding for international students to study in the United States, covering tuition, textbooks, airfare, a living stipend, and health insurance.
Application Process
Applicants must apply through the Fulbright Commission/Foundation or the US Embassy in their home countries. The application includes a research proposal, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.
Opening Date: April 1, 2024
Application Deadline: Varies by country, typically between February and October 2024
Application Link: Fulbright Foreign Student Program
3. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
Erasmus Mundus offers full scholarships for students to pursue joint master’s programs in multiple European countries. The scholarship covers tuition, travel costs, installation costs, and a monthly allowance.
Application Process
Students must apply to the specific Erasmus Mundus programs they are interested in. Each program has its own application requirements, which usually include academic transcripts, a CV, a motivation letter, and letters of recommendation.
Opening Date: September 15, 2024
Application Deadline: December 15, 2024
Application Link: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
4. DAAD Scholarships for Development-Related Postgraduate Courses
DAAD offers scholarships for international students from developing countries to study in Germany. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel expenses, a monthly stipend, and health insurance.
Application Process
Applicants need to have a bachelor’s degree, at least two years of professional experience, and demonstrate their interest in development-related issues. The application includes academic transcripts, a CV, a motivation letter, and letters of recommendation.
Opening Date: June 1, 2024
Application Deadline:Â Varies by program, generally between August and October 2024
Application Link: DAAD Scholarships
5. Australia Awards Scholarships
Australia Awards Scholarships provide full financial support for students from developing countries to study at Australian universities. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel expenses, establishment allowance, and a living stipend.
Application Process
Applicants must apply online through the Australia Awards website. The application requires academic transcripts, a CV, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
Opening Date: February 1, 2024
Application Deadline:Â April 30, 2024
Application Link: Australia Awards Scholarships
6. Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships
MEXT Scholarships offer full financial support for international students to study in Japan, covering tuition, monthly allowance, and travel expenses.
Application Process
Applicants must apply through the Japanese embassy or consulate in their home country. The application includes academic transcripts, a research proposal, and letters of recommendation.
Opening Date: September 1, 2024
Application Deadline: Varies by country, generally between April and June 2024
Application Link: MEXT Scholarships
7. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships provide full financial support for international students to pursue postgraduate studies or research in Switzerland. The scholarship covers tuition fees, health insurance, and a monthly stipend.
Application Process
Applicants must apply through the Swiss Embassy in their home country. The application includes academic transcripts, a research proposal, and letters of recommendation.
Opening Date: August 1, 2024
Application Deadline:Â December 1, 2024
Application Link: Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
8. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
SISGP offers full scholarships for international students to study master’s programs in Sweden. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel grant, and insurance.
Application Process
Applicants must apply to the master’s programs they are interested in and then apply for the SISGP. The application includes a CV, a motivation letter, and proof of work experience.
Opening Date: October 1, 2024
Application Deadline: February 28, 2025
Application Link: Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals
9. The Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship provides full financial support for African students to pursue postgraduate studies in South Africa. The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and a living allowance.
Application Process
Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. The application includes academic transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
Opening Date: March 1, 2024
Application Deadline: April 21, 2024
Application Link: Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship
10. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
This program offers scholarships for students from developing countries to pursue master’s degrees in development-related fields at partner universities around the world. The scholarship covers tuition, a monthly stipend, round-trip airfare, and health insurance.
Application Process
Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree, at least three years of work experience in a development-related field, and a letter of acceptance to a partner university. The application includes academic transcripts, a CV, a research proposal, and letters of recommendation.
Opening Date: March 15, 2024
Application Deadline: February 28, 2025
Application Link: Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
These scholarships provide invaluable opportunities for African students to gain international education and experience, which can be instrumental in their personal and professional development.
Make sure to check each scholarship’s specific requirements and deadlines, and start preparing your application well in advance. Good luck!
