Finding the right scholarship can be life-changing, especially for African students seeking quality education locally or abroad. The internet has made this search easier, but the sheer number of platforms can be overwhelming. To help you focus on what truly works, here are 10 of the best scholarship websites every African student should know, explained in detail so you can use them effectively.
1. Scholarships.com
This is one of the largest and most comprehensive scholarship search engines globally. While it is U.S.-focused, many international scholarships are listed, making it useful for African students targeting American institutions.
Why it’s useful:
- Huge database of scholarships
- Filters based on study level, field, and eligibility
- Regular updates on deadlines
Best strategy:
Use very specific filters (e.g., “international students” or “African students”) to narrow down opportunities relevant to you.
2. DAAD
The DAAD website is one of the most valuable resources for students interested in studying in Germany.
Why it’s useful:
- Offers fully funded scholarships for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs
- Covers tuition, living expenses, and travel
- Includes programs taught in English
Best strategy:
Check their scholarship database regularly and pay attention to course-specific requirements, as many programs require prior work experience.
3. Chevening
Chevening is a prestigious UK government scholarship aimed at developing global leaders.
Why it’s useful:
- Fully funded master’s degree in the UK
- Covers tuition, accommodation, and travel
- Strong alumni network across Africa
Best strategy:
Prepare a strong leadership-focused application. Your essays and recommendations matter more than just academic grades.
4. Commonwealth Scholarship Commission
This platform provides scholarships for students from Commonwealth countries, including many African nations.
Why it’s useful:
- Offers master’s and PhD scholarships
- Focuses on development-related fields
- Fully funded opportunities
Best strategy:
Align your application with development goals in your home country—this significantly increases your chances.
5. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
This is one of the most impactful scholarship programs specifically for African students.
Why it’s useful:
- Targets academically talented but economically disadvantaged students
- Available at top universities worldwide (e.g., in Canada, USA, Africa)
- Includes mentorship and leadership training
Best strategy:
Apply directly through partner universities offering the program rather than searching only on the main website.
6. Opportunities for Africans
A highly popular platform dedicated to scholarships, fellowships, internships, and grants for Africans.
Why it’s useful:
- Curated specifically for African students
- Daily updates on new opportunities
- Covers a wide range of fields and countries
Best strategy:
Visit frequently or subscribe to alerts—many opportunities have tight deadlines.
7. ScholarshipPortal
ScholarshipPortal is a European-focused platform that aggregates scholarships across multiple countries.
Why it’s useful:
- Thousands of scholarships across Europe
- Easy comparison of programs
- Includes tuition and cost-of-living estimates
Best strategy:
Combine it with program search tools to identify both the course and funding in one place.
8. Fastweb
Fastweb is another scholarship search engine with a personalized matching system.
Why it’s useful:
- Matches scholarships to your profile
- Sends alerts for deadlines
- Includes internships and financial aid tips
Best strategy:
Fill out your profile completely to improve the quality of matches you receive.
9. United Nations Careers & Fellowships Portal
The UN offers scholarships, fellowships, and training programs through its various agencies.
Why it’s useful:
- Opportunities in development, health, environment, and more
- Global exposure and career-building experiences
- Many programs target students from developing countries
Best strategy:
Look beyond scholarships—fellowships and training programs can also fund your education or career pathway.
10. World Bank Scholarships Program
The World Bank offers high-level scholarships for students from developing countries.
Why it’s useful:
- Fully funded master’s programs
- Focus on development-related fields
- Access to global networks and career opportunities
Best strategy:
Ensure your chosen field aligns with development goals like poverty reduction, infrastructure, or public policy.
How to Use These Websites Effectively
Knowing these platforms is only half the battle. Success depends on how you use them.
1. Be Consistent
Scholarships open and close throughout the year. Set aside time weekly to check updates.
2. Prepare Documents Early
Common requirements include:
- Academic transcripts
- Personal statement
- Recommendation letters
- CV
Having these ready saves time and reduces stress.
3. Tailor Every Application
Avoid sending the same essay everywhere. Customize each application based on:
- The scholarship’s mission
- The host country
- Your career goals
4. Focus on Fully Funded Opportunities
As an African student, prioritize scholarships that cover:
- Tuition
- Accommodation
- Travel
- Living expenses
5. Avoid Scams
Legitimate scholarship websites:
- Do NOT charge application fees
- Use official domains (e.g., .org, .edu, .gov)
- Provide clear eligibility criteria
Final Thoughts
The journey to securing a scholarship can be competitive, but it is absolutely achievable with the right tools and strategy. These 10 websites are among the most reliable and widely used platforms available to African students today. By combining consistent effort, strong applications, and smart use of these resources, you significantly improve your chances of success.