50 Scholarships for Women in Africa to Study Locally Abroad

She has three tabs open on her phone before midnight. One tab shows tuition fees for a university in her country. Another shows visa fees, passport renewal, English test costs, medical checks, flight estimates, and the price of sending certified documents abroad.

The third tab is a scholarship page with a deadline that looks close enough to make her panic. On the table beside her are transport receipts, a half-written personal statement, a younger sibling’s school bill, and a notebook where she has written, “Should I apply locally first or try abroad?”

That is where many African women begin the scholarship journey: not with lack of ambition, but with too many costs arriving at once.

This guide is for the woman who wants to study but cannot afford to guess. It is for the Nigerian student comparing a local undergraduate STEM scholarship with a Mastercard Foundation partner university route.

It is for the Kenyan girl looking at Zawadi Africa and WAAW while wondering whether studying abroad is realistic. It is for the Ghanaian, Ugandan, Rwandan, Ethiopian, South African, Zimbabwean, Malawian, Sierra Leonean, Cameroonian, and Senegalese woman trying to understand which scholarships are actually worth her time.

It is also for single mothers, low-income women, rural women, first-generation university students, refugee women, women with disabilities, women in STEM, women in public policy, and women returning to school after years of work, caregiving, pregnancy, displacement, or family pressure.

The goal is not to chase every scholarship on the internet. The goal is to build a clear list of African women scholarship opportunities that match your country, study level, field, documents, deadline, and real life.

Why African Women Should Look Beyond “One Big Scholarship” and Build a Scholarship List That Matches Their Real Life

Many women lose time because they chase only one famous fully funded scholarship. They hear about Chevening, Mastercard Foundation, Commonwealth, Erasmus Mundus, Fulbright, or Türkiye Scholarships, and they spend months preparing for one opportunity without checking whether they meet the exact eligibility rules. A strong scholarship plan does not start with popularity. It starts with fit.

A woman applying for undergraduate funding needs a different list from a woman applying for a master’s degree. A woman in nursing may need a different funder from a woman in aerospace engineering. A single mother may need to check whether the award offers family-friendly support, living allowance, or flexible study options. A woman applying abroad must look at visa costs, admission timelines, English test rules, passport validity, and whether the scholarship requires admission before the funding application.

The best approach is to build a layered scholarship list. This means you do not rely on one “big” award. You combine local scholarships for women in Africa, regional African scholarships, study abroad scholarships for African women, women-focused scholarships, STEM awards, leadership fellowships, postgraduate awards, research grants, and need-based education funding for African women.

For example, a Nigerian woman studying engineering may apply for a local undergraduate STEM scholarship while also preparing for a Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program opportunity through a partner institution. A Kenyan woman may check Zawadi Africa and WAAW Foundation while also researching undergraduate routes through partner universities. A Ghanaian or Ugandan postgraduate applicant may look at Mastercard Foundation partner universities and DAAD In-Country/In-Region options. A South African woman may check MMEG South Africa, Canon Collins, Mandela Rhodes, and international scholarships, instead of relying on only one overseas application.

The point is simple: your scholarship list should match your life, not someone else’s viral success story.

50 Scholarships and Funding Programs for Women in Africa to Study Locally or Abroad

Below are 50 official scholarship programs, funding routes, and verified application pages. Some are women-exclusive or women-focused. Others are not women-only, but African women are eligible if they meet the criteria. Always verify the current deadline, country rules, eligible courses, and document requirements before applying.

Women-focused or women-exclusive scholarships and funding programs

1. Learn Africa Scholarship Programme — Women for Africa Foundation
   Best for: African women seeking postgraduate, specialist, or professional study opportunities connected to Spanish institutions. Study level: Usually postgraduate, short courses, and specialist programs depending on the annual call. Where it can be used: Partner institutions, often in Spain or online depending on the program. What it may cover: Tuition, training access, and other support depending on the specific call. Why consider it: It is a women-focused scholarship route designed specifically for African women. Official link: Women for Africa Foundation Learn Africa page. Deadline note: Confirm the current annual call before preparing documents. (Mujeres por África)
2. WAAW Foundation Scholarship — Working to Advance African Women Foundation
   Best for: African women studying STEM at undergraduate level. Study level: Undergraduate. Where it can be used: African universities, subject to WAAW’s rules. What it may cover: Scholarship support toward education costs. Why consider it: It directly supports scholarships for women in STEM Africa and is a strong fit for women already enrolled in STEM programs. Official link: WAAW Foundation scholarship page. Deadline note: Check the current application cycle before applying. (WAAW Foundation)
3. Margaret McNamara Education Grants — MMEG
   Best for: Women from developing countries who want education that strengthens women and children in their communities. Study level: Varies by regional grant program. Where it can be used: MMEG has different grant programs, including regional windows. What it may cover: Education grant support, not always full cost. Why consider it: It is women-focused and useful for African women with a clear development or community impact plan. Official link: MMEG apply page. Deadline note: Check the correct regional program and date. (MMEG)
4. OWSD PhD Fellowships — Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World
   Best for: Women scientists from science- and technology-lagging countries pursuing PhD research. Study level: PhD. Where it can be used: Research institutions in eligible developing countries, depending on fellowship rules. What it may cover: Research-related costs and fellowship support depending on category. Why consider it: It is one of the strongest postgraduate scholarships for African women in science. Official link: OWSD PhD Fellowships. Deadline note: Verify eligible countries, host institution rules, and annual call dates. (OWSD)
5. OWSD Early Career Fellowship — Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World
   Best for: Women scientists who have completed PhD-level training and are building research careers. Study level: Postdoctoral or early-career research. Where it can be used: Eligible institutions in developing countries. What it may cover: Research funding, equipment, collaboration, and career development support depending on the call. Why consider it: It helps African women move from study into serious research leadership. Official link: OWSD Early Career Fellowship. Deadline note: Confirm current call status and eligible science fields. (OWSD)
6. Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowship
   Best for: Women from developing and emerging economies pursuing advanced STEM research. Study level: PhD and postdoctoral research. Where it can be used: Leading universities abroad or approved host institutions. What it may cover: Fellowship funding for advanced study or research. Why consider it: It is a high-value women-focused STEM opportunity for women who want to return and strengthen teaching, research, and innovation. Official link: Schlumberger Foundation applications page. Deadline note: Check the current application window and field eligibility. (Schlumberger Foundation)
7. L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Sub-Saharan Africa Young Talents
   Best for: Women researchers in Sub-Saharan Africa. Study level: Doctoral and postdoctoral research, depending on the call. Where it can be used: Research work connected to Sub-Saharan Africa and eligible institutions. What it may cover: Research award funding and visibility. Why consider it: It is one of the most recognized women-in-science awards for African women. Official link: For Women in Science Sub-Saharan Africa call page. Deadline note: Confirm the latest call year and eligibility details. (For Women in Science)
8. AAUW International Fellowships — American Association of University Women
   Best for: Women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents and want graduate or postgraduate study in the United States. Study level: Graduate, doctoral, and postdoctoral, depending on award category. Where it can be used: United States institutions. What it may cover: Fellowship funding toward study and research. Why consider it: It is a strong scholarship for African women to study in USA, especially for women with strong academic and leadership profiles. Official link: AAUW Fellowships and Grants page. Deadline note: Check the annual fellowship deadline and citizenship rules. (AAUW : Empowering Women Since 1881)
9. P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship Fund
   Best for: Women from outside the United States and Canada seeking graduate study in the U.S. or Canada. Study level: Graduate study. Where it can be used: Accredited colleges or universities in the U.S. or Canada. What it may cover: P.E.O. states a maximum award amount of $12,500. Why consider it: It is women-focused and useful for African women with admission plans in North America. Official link: P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship Fund. Deadline note: Confirm current award amount, eligibility, and application timeline. (P.E.O. International)
10. Zonta Amelia Earhart Fellowship
    Best for: Women pursuing aerospace engineering or space sciences. Study level: PhD or doctoral-level research. Where it can be used: Eligible universities worldwide. What it may cover: Fellowship award funding. Why consider it: It is a powerful niche award for African women in aerospace, aviation, space science, and related research. Official link: Zonta Amelia Earhart Fellowship page. Deadline note: Verify current cycle and subject eligibility. (Zonta International)
11. Zonta Women in STEM Award
    Best for: Women studying or working in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. Study level: Varies by award cycle. Where it can be used: Zonta’s official award process and district/international route. What it may cover: Award funding. Why consider it: It is a women-focused STEM award that can strengthen both funding and professional visibility. Official link: Zonta Women in STEM Award page. Deadline note: Confirm whether applications go through local Zonta clubs, districts, or international routes. (Zonta International)
12. Zawadi Africa Education Fund
    Best for: Academically talented African girls seeking higher education opportunities. Study level: Mainly undergraduate, depending on current program rules. Where it can be used: Partner universities and approved pathways. What it may cover: Education support and scholarship-related assistance depending on placement. Why consider it: It is one of the best-known routes for scholarships for African girls to study abroad. Official link: Zawadi Africa website. Deadline note: Confirm current recruitment countries and application cycle. (Zawadi Africa)
13. Zawadi Africa Apply Page
    Best for: Girls and young women ready to check the official Zawadi Africa application process. Study level: Usually undergraduate, based on the current call. Where it can be used: Zawadi-approved routes and partner institutions. What it may cover: Varies by opportunity and placement. Why consider it: It directs applicants to the official application route instead of unsafe third-party forms. Official link: Zawadi Africa Apply page. Deadline note: Check whether applications are open before preparing documents. (Zawadi Africa)
14. FAWE Higher Education Access Program in Uganda — Forum for African Women Educationalists
    Best for: Young women in Uganda seeking higher education access support. Study level: Higher education access, depending on program rules. Where it can be used: Uganda-focused higher education pathways. What it may cover: Support linked to access, transition, and higher education participation. Why consider it: It is a strong local example of education funding for African women within the continent. Official link: FAWE HEAP Uganda page. Deadline note: Verify current program availability and country-specific rules. (FAWE)
15. FAWE Regional Secretariat Opportunities — Forum for African Women Educationalists
    Best for: African girls and women looking for FAWE country chapters, advocacy, education access programs, and possible funding announcements. Study level: Varies by country and program. Where it can be used: FAWE country networks and regional programs. What it may cover: Varies by initiative. Why consider it: FAWE is focused on girls’ and women’s education across Africa, so it is worth tracking for local scholarships for women in Africa. Official link: FAWE regional website. Deadline note: Check country chapter announcements, not just the regional homepage. (FAWE)

Scholarships open to African women but not women-only

16. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program — Mastercard Foundation
    Best for: Young African leaders with academic promise, service mindset, and financial need. Study level: Secondary-to-higher education pathways, undergraduate, and postgraduate depending on partner institution. Where it can be used: Mastercard Foundation partner institutions in Africa and globally. What it may cover: Comprehensive support varies by partner institution. Why consider it: The official program says it has committed over 58,000 scholarships and that 71% of scholars are young women, making it a major African women scholarship opportunity even though it is not women-only. Official link: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Deadline note: Apply through partner institutions and verify each partner’s deadline. (Mastercard Foundation)
17. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Where to Apply — Partner Institutions
    Best for: Applicants who need the correct official university route. Study level: Varies by partner. Where it can be used: Listed partner institutions. What it may cover: Depends on the partner university’s scholarship package. Why consider it: It prevents applicants from applying through fake or outdated links. Official link: Mastercard Foundation Where to Apply page. Deadline note: Each partner institution sets its own admission and scholarship process. (Mastercard Foundation)
18. DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme Sub-Saharan Africa — DAAD
    Best for: African postgraduate students who want to study in their home country or another African country. Study level: Master’s and PhD, depending on the call. Where it can be used: African higher education institutions in eligible DAAD networks. What it may cover: DAAD scholarship support, usually linked to tuition, living costs, and research needs depending on the program. Why consider it: It is a strong fit for women who want African postgraduate study without leaving the continent. Official link: DAAD In-Country/In-Region Programme. Deadline note: Confirm country, university, and course-specific calls. (www.daad.de)
19. DAAD Scholarship Database — DAAD
    Best for: African women searching for Germany-based or DAAD-funded study options. Study level: Undergraduate, master’s, PhD, research, and short programs depending on filter results. Where it can be used: Germany or DAAD-approved programs. What it may cover: Varies by scholarship. Why consider it: It is the official search tool for DAAD scholarship routes, which helps applicants avoid outdated lists. Official link: DAAD Scholarship Database. Deadline note: Filter by country, level, and field before applying. (DAAD)
20. DAAD EPOS Development-Related Postgraduate Courses — DAAD
    Best for: Professionals from developing countries applying for development-related postgraduate study in Germany. Study level: Master’s and selected postgraduate courses. Where it can be used: Germany. What it may cover: DAAD funding package depending on the course. Why consider it: It is strong for African women in development, public policy, economics, health, agriculture, environment, and related fields. Official link: DAAD scholarships overview. Deadline note: Deadlines differ by course, so check the course list early. (www.daad.de)
21. Chevening Scholarships — UK Government
    Best for: Emerging leaders seeking a one-year master’s degree in the UK. Study level: Master’s. Where it can be used: UK universities. What it may cover: Chevening describes the scholarship as fully funded. Why consider it: It is one of the strongest scholarships for African women to study in the UK, especially women with leadership, work experience, and a clear return-home plan. Official link: Chevening Scholarships page. Deadline note: Applications open and close by annual cycle. (chevening.org)
22. Chevening Apply Page — Chevening
    Best for: Applicants ready to check country eligibility and submit through the official portal. Study level: Master’s and selected fellowships. Where it can be used: UK. What it may cover: Depends on the award type. Why consider it: It helps African women check the right country page, application timeline, and official process. Official link: Chevening Apply page. Deadline note: Do not rely on old dates; check the active cycle. (chevening.org)
23. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships — Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK
    Best for: Students from eligible developing Commonwealth countries who cannot otherwise afford UK study. Study level: Master’s. Where it can be used: Approved UK universities and courses. What it may cover: Commonwealth Shared Scholarships are designed for jointly supported study with UK universities. Why consider it: It is a major route for scholarships for African women to study in the UK. Official link: Commonwealth Shared Scholarships page. Deadline note: Check eligible courses and nominating university rules. (cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk)
24. Commonwealth Scholarships — British Council Study UK
    Best for: African women from Commonwealth countries exploring UK postgraduate scholarships. Study level: Mostly master’s and PhD, depending on scheme. Where it can be used: UK institutions. What it may cover: Varies by Commonwealth scholarship type. Why consider it: It is a trusted official overview for UK Commonwealth funding routes. Official link: British Council Study UK Commonwealth Scholarships page. Deadline note: Use the official CSC page for exact scheme deadlines. (Study UK)
25. Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships — Association of Commonwealth Universities
    Best for: Students from Commonwealth countries seeking master’s study in another low- or middle-income Commonwealth country. Study level: Master’s. Where it can be used: Participating universities in eligible Commonwealth countries. What it may cover: Scholarship support for study and related costs depending on host university. Why consider it: It is useful for African women who want international study without limiting themselves to Europe or North America. Official link: ACU Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships page. Deadline note: Check the current cycle and host country list. (acu.ac.uk)
26. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships — European Union Erasmus+
    Best for: Students seeking high-quality joint master’s programs across European universities. Study level: Master’s. Where it can be used: Erasmus Mundus partner institutions, usually in more than one country. What it may cover: Scholarships may support participation costs, travel, and living costs depending on the program. Why consider it: It is a powerful study abroad scholarship for African women who want an international master’s with mobility. Official link: Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters page. Deadline note: Each master’s consortium sets its own deadline. (erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu)
27. Australia Awards Africa — Australian Government
    Best for: African professionals seeking development-focused training and study opportunities. Study level: Varies by country and program cycle. Where it can be used: Australia or Africa-linked training, depending on the award. What it may cover: Award support varies by program. Why consider it: It is a strong fit for women in public policy, agriculture, climate, governance, health, and development. Official link: Australia Awards Africa website. Deadline note: Confirm country-specific eligibility and priority sectors. (Australia Awards Africa)
28. Australia Awards in Africa — DFAT
    Best for: Applicants who want the official Australian Government explanation of Africa awards. Study level: Varies. Where it can be used: Australia Awards-approved pathways. What it may cover: Varies by award. Why consider it: It gives official government context, which helps applicants avoid fake “Australia scholarship” pages. Official link: DFAT Australia Awards in Africa page. Deadline note: Check the Africa portal for live application cycles. (dfat.gov.au)
29. Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships — New Zealand Government
    Best for: Students from eligible countries seeking study in New Zealand or the Pacific region. Study level: Varies by country and program. Where it can be used: New Zealand-approved institutions and scholarship routes. What it may cover: Scholarship support based on the official award type. Why consider it: It is useful for African women looking beyond the UK, USA, and Canada. Official link: Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships page. Deadline note: Check eligible countries before preparing essays. (NZ Scholarships)
30. Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships Eligibility Checker — New Zealand Government
    Best for: Applicants who need to confirm whether their country is eligible. Study level: Varies. Where it can be used: New Zealand scholarship routes. What it may cover: Depends on scholarship category. Why consider it: It helps applicants avoid wasting time if their country is not included in the current cycle. Official link: Manaaki eligible countries page. Deadline note: Eligibility can change, so check before every cycle. (NZ Scholarships)
31. Türkiye Scholarships — Government of Türkiye
    Best for: International students seeking undergraduate, master’s, PhD, research, or short-term study in Türkiye. Study level: Associate, bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, and research. Where it can be used: Turkish universities. What it may cover: The official page describes a comprehensive program with financial support and university placement. Why consider it: It is a strong route for undergraduate scholarships for African women and postgraduate scholarships for African women. Official link: Türkiye Scholarships homepage. Deadline note: Check the official calendar and online application system. (Turkey Scholarships)
32. Türkiye Scholarships Programs and Criteria — Government of Türkiye
    Best for: Applicants checking age, academic, level, and program requirements. Study level: Undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and research. Where it can be used: Türkiye. What it may cover: Depends on program type. Why consider it: It helps women match themselves to the right level before applying. Official link: Türkiye Scholarships criteria page. Deadline note: Check current program criteria before submitting. (Turkey Scholarships)
33. IsDB Scholarship Program — Islamic Development Bank
    Best for: Students from IsDB member countries and eligible Muslim communities in non-member countries. Study level: Undergraduate, master’s, PhD, postdoctoral, and vocational routes depending on program. Where it can be used: Approved institutions and routes. What it may cover: Scholarship support varies by IsDB program. Why consider it: It can be relevant for African women in science, technology, development, medicine, agriculture, and other priority fields. Official link: IsDB Scholarships page. Deadline note: Confirm country, field, and program category. (ISDB)
34. IsDB Scholarship Program Booklets — Islamic Development Bank
    Best for: Applicants who need the detailed program rules before applying. Study level: Varies by IsDB scholarship category. Where it can be used: Approved routes. What it may cover: Varies by program booklet. Why consider it: The booklets help applicants understand obligations, fields, and requirements before investing time. Official link: IsDB Scholarship Programs page. Deadline note: Read the latest booklet for the current year. (ISDB)
35. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme — AKDN
    Best for: Outstanding students from selected countries who need postgraduate funding. Study level: Postgraduate. Where it can be used: Approved universities internationally, depending on program rules. What it may cover: AKDN scholarship support, often structured according to its own financial model. Why consider it: It is useful for African women from eligible countries who have strong academic records and limited funding options. Official link: Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarships page. Deadline note: Confirm whether your country participates and how applications are submitted locally. (Aga Khan Development Network)
36. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program — World Bank
    Best for: Professionals from developing countries applying for development-related master’s programs. Study level: Master’s. Where it can be used: Participating programs and institutions. What it may cover: Scholarship support for approved graduate study. Why consider it: It is strong for African women in public policy, economics, governance, infrastructure, health systems, climate, and development. Official link: World Bank JJ/WBGSP page. Deadline note: Confirm participating programs and application windows. (World Bank)
37. Rotary Global Grant Scholarships — Rotary International
    Best for: Graduate-level students whose study aligns with Rotary’s areas of focus. Study level: Graduate study. Where it can be used: International graduate study connected to Rotary district sponsorship. What it may cover: Global grant scholarship support. Why consider it: It is a good fit for women with a clear service, peacebuilding, health, education, water, economic development, or community impact plan. Official link: Rotary Scholarships page. Deadline note: Contact Rotary districts early because timelines vary. (Rotary International)
38. Rhodes Scholarship for West Africa — Rhodes Trust
    Best for: Exceptional West African applicants seeking postgraduate study at Oxford. Study level: Postgraduate. Where it can be used: University of Oxford. What it may cover: Rhodes scholarship support for Oxford study. Why consider it: It is one of the most prestigious postgraduate scholarships for African women with strong leadership and academic records. Official link: Rhodes West Africa page. Deadline note: Check constituency rules and annual deadlines. (Rhodes House)
39. Rhodes Scholarships Main Application Page — Rhodes Trust
    Best for: African women outside West Africa who need to find the correct constituency. Study level: Postgraduate. Where it can be used: University of Oxford. What it may cover: Varies by Rhodes scholarship conditions. Why consider it: The main page helps applicants select the right country route instead of using the wrong constituency page. Official link: Rhodes applications page. Deadline note: Deadlines differ by constituency. (Rhodes House)
40. Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship Apply Page — Mandela Rhodes Foundation
    Best for: Young African leaders seeking postgraduate study in South Africa. Study level: Honours and master’s. Where it can be used: Recognized South African higher education institutions. What it may cover: Application details are provided through the official apply page. Why consider it: It combines postgraduate study with leadership development for African applicants. Official link: Mandela Rhodes Explore & Apply page. Deadline note: Confirm current application status before preparing references. (The Mandela Rhodes Foundation)
41. Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship Overview — Mandela Rhodes Foundation
    Best for: African students checking whether the scholarship package fits their goals. Study level: Honours and master’s. Where it can be used: South Africa. What it may cover: The official page lists tuition and registration fees, allowances for study materials, research, medical aid, accommodation, and meals. Why consider it: It is a major African postgraduate route for women seeking leadership and academic development. Official link: Mandela Rhodes Scholarship overview. Deadline note: Review eligibility and current call status. (The Mandela Rhodes Foundation)
42. Canon Collins Scholarships — Canon Collins Trust
    Best for: Southern African students committed to social justice, leadership, and public good. Study level: Undergraduate and postgraduate depending on scheme, with strong postgraduate focus. Where it can be used: UK, Ireland, South Africa, and Malawi depending on scholarship. What it may cover: Scholarship support varies by award. Why consider it: Canon Collins has long supported southern African candidates and is especially relevant for women in justice, education, health, and public leadership. Official link: Canon Collins scholarship page. Deadline note: Sign up for official alerts and verify each scheme. (Canon Collins Trust)
43. Canon Collins RMTF Scholarships for Postgraduate Study — Canon Collins Trust
    Best for: Eligible postgraduate applicants from specific southern African countries. Study level: Postgraduate. Where it can be used: Approved postgraduate study routes. What it may cover: Scholarship support based on the RMTF scheme. Why consider it: It is a focused option for African women seeking advanced study with social impact. Official link: Canon Collins RMTF page. Deadline note: Check country and field rules before applying. (Canon Collins Trust)
44. Canon Collins Scholarships for Postgraduate Study in South Africa — Canon Collins Trust
    Best for: Eligible applicants pursuing postgraduate study in South Africa. Study level: Postgraduate. Where it can be used: South African institutions. What it may cover: Scholarship support varies by current call. Why consider it: It is valuable for African women who want postgraduate study within Africa rather than overseas. Official link: Canon Collins South Africa scholarship page. Deadline note: Verify eligible countries, universities, and courses. (Canon Collins Trust)
45. Beit Trust Postgraduate Scholarships — Beit Trust
    Best for: Applicants from eligible southern African countries seeking postgraduate study. Study level: Postgraduate. Where it can be used: Partner universities, usually in the UK, South Africa, or other approved locations. What it may cover: Beit Trust scholarship support depending on partner and award rules. Why consider it: It is a strong postgraduate route for women from eligible countries such as Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi, subject to current rules. Official link: Beit Trust scholarships page. Deadline note: Check eligible countries and partner universities each year. (The Beit Trust)
46. Beit Trust Home Scholarships Page — Beit Trust
    Best for: Applicants who need official Beit Trust updates, eligibility notices, and scholarship background. Study level: Postgraduate. Where it can be used: Approved partner universities. What it may cover: Varies by scholarship. Why consider it: It keeps applicants on the official source when annual pages change. Official link: Beit Trust homepage. Deadline note: Use the current scholarships page for active deadlines. (The Beit Trust)
47. Fulbright Foreign Student Program — U.S. Government Fulbright Program
    Best for: International graduate students, young professionals, and artists seeking study or research in the United States. Study level: Graduate study and research, depending on country program. Where it can be used: United States. What it may cover: Fulbright support varies by country and program. Why consider it: It is one of the strongest scholarships for African women to study in USA, especially for graduate study and research. Official link: Fulbright Foreign Student Program homepage. Deadline note: Apply through your country’s Fulbright process. (Fulbright Foreign Program)
48. Fulbright Program for Foreign Students by Country — Fulbright
    Best for: Applicants who need the correct country-specific Fulbright page. Study level: Graduate study and research. Where it can be used: United States. What it may cover: Varies by country program. Why consider it: Fulbright deadlines, eligible fields, and application steps differ by country, so this official apply page matters. Official link: Fulbright apply page. Deadline note: Select your country before planning documents. (Fulbright Foreign Program)
49. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships — Swiss Confederation
    Best for: Postgraduate researchers, PhD applicants, postdoctoral researchers, and artists depending on country rules. Study level: Research, PhD, postdoctoral, and arts programs depending on scholarship category. Where it can be used: Switzerland. What it may cover: Swiss Government scholarship support varies by category. Why consider it: It is a strong research route for African women with advanced academic profiles. Official link: Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships page. Deadline note: Country-specific application packages and deadlines matter. (SERI)
50. VLIR-UOS ICP Connect Scholarships — VLIR-UOS
    Best for: Students from eligible countries applying for development-relevant international master’s programs in Belgium. Study level: Master’s. Where it can be used: Flemish higher education institutions in Belgium through eligible programs. What it may cover: Scholarship support for selected study programs. Why consider it: It is valuable for African women seeking development-focused study in Europe. Official link: VLIR-UOS scholarships page. Deadline note: Check eligible countries, programs, and each program’s deadline. (vliruos)

How to Know Which Scholarship Is Worth Your Time Before You Apply

Not every scholarship deserves your time. A scholarship can look attractive and still be wrong for your profile. Before you spend three weeks writing essays, check whether the award fits your country, level of study, field, age, work experience, documents, and future plan.

Use this checklist before applying:

1. Is my country eligible? Do not assume “Africa” means every African country.
2. Is my gender, age, or field eligible? Some awards are women-focused. Others are open to all genders.
3. Does it fund my study level? Undergraduate, master’s, PhD, research, short course, and fellowship funding are not the same.
4. Does it cover full cost or tuition only? A tuition-only scholarship may still leave you with rent, meals, visa, travel, books, or childcare.
5. Does it require admission first? Some scholarships need a university offer before funding.
6. Does it require English tests? Some may accept alternatives, but you must verify.
7. Does it require work experience? Chevening-style awards often expect leadership and professional experience.
8. Does it require community leadership? Many funders want proof that you solve real problems.
9. Does it require returning home after study? Some development scholarships expect return and service.
10. Does it require a specific university or partner institution? Mastercard Foundation, Erasmus Mundus, Commonwealth, and DAAD routes often depend on approved institutions.
11. Does it allow online study? Do not assume online programs are covered.
12. Does it accept single mothers, older women, or women returning to school? Some do, but you must check rules around dependents, age, and study gaps.

A practical example: do not apply to a PhD-only award if you need undergraduate funding. Do not apply to a UK master’s scholarship if your strongest profile is for local undergraduate STEM support. Do not waste time on a scholarship that requires two years of professional experience if you are a fresh secondary school graduate. A good scholarship list saves energy because it removes the wrong options early.

What African Women Need Before Applying for Local or International Scholarships

Scholarship success often starts before the application opens. If you wait until the deadline month to gather documents, you may rush your essays, chase referees, and submit weak evidence. African women applying locally or abroad should prepare a scholarship folder long before the application season.

Your folder should include academic transcripts, passport or national ID, CV or resume, personal statement, scholarship essay drafts, study plan, research proposal for postgraduate applicants, admission letter where required, recommendation letters, proof of financial need, leadership evidence, community service evidence, awards and certificates, English test results where required, budget estimate, childcare or family support plan for mothers where relevant, and an application tracker.

Your personal statement should not sound like a cry for pity. Funders understand hardship, but they also look for readiness, direction, and alignment. A weak statement says, “I need this scholarship because I am poor.” That may be true, but it does not show why you are a strong match. A stronger statement says, “I am applying because my academic record, community work, and career plan align with the funder’s goal of expanding women’s leadership in health, STEM, education, agriculture, or public service.”

The difference is not pride. It is strategy. You can speak honestly about financial need without making poverty the whole story. You can explain that you are a single mother, rural student, refugee woman, first-generation student, or woman returning to school, but you should connect that story to preparation, evidence, and purpose. Funders want to see what you have done with limited resources and what you are ready to do with structured support.

For recommendation letters, do not ask someone to write, “She is hardworking.” Give your referee details: your course, your achievements, the scholarship goal, your leadership examples, and the deadline. For your CV, do not list only job titles. Add projects, community work, volunteer roles, research, awards, trainings, and measurable contributions. For your budget, include the real costs: tuition, accommodation, meals, transport, visa, health insurance, books, laptop, internet, exam fees, document certification, and childcare if relevant.

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5. Scholarships for Single Mothers in the USA

How to Build a Winning Scholarship Strategy Instead of Randomly Applying Everywhere

The strongest applicants do not apply everywhere. They build a 90-day plan. This plan helps you move from panic to structure.

Week 1: Decide your study level, field, country preference, and funding need. Write down whether you need undergraduate, master’s, PhD, research, short course, or leadership funding. Decide whether you are open to local study, African regional study, or overseas study.

Week 2: Build a list of 20–30 scholarships. Include a mix of women-focused awards, general international scholarships, local scholarships, and field-based awards.

Week 3: Sort the list by deadline and eligibility. Remove anything that does not match your country, study level, field, or documents.

Week 4: Prepare documents. Update your CV, request transcripts, check passport validity, identify referees, and draft your personal statement.

Weeks 5–8: Write essays and request references. Do not send the same essay everywhere. Adapt each essay to the funder’s mission.

Weeks 9–10: Submit your first batch. Start with scholarships that are the strongest match and nearest deadline.

Weeks 11–12: Improve and submit your second batch. Use what you learned from the first applications to strengthen the next ones.

Here is how matching works in real life. A woman in STEM may prioritize WAAW, OWSD, L’Oréal-UNESCO, Faculty for the Future, Zonta STEM, and Mastercard Foundation.

A woman seeking a UK master’s may check Chevening, Commonwealth, Rhodes, Canon Collins, Beit Trust, and Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships.

A woman seeking African postgraduate study may look at Mandela Rhodes, DAAD In-Country/In-Region, Mastercard Foundation partner universities, Canon Collins, and MMEG South Africa.

A woman interested in development or public policy may consider JJ/WBGSP, Chevening, Commonwealth, Australia Awards Africa, and Rotary Global Grants.

A woman seeking undergraduate support may check Zawadi Africa, Mastercard Foundation partner institutions, WAAW, FAWE, IsDB, and Türkiye Scholarships.

The goal is not to send 100 weak applications. The goal is to submit fewer, stronger, better-matched applications that show the funder why your background, study plan, and future work fit their mission.

Ready to Find the Right Scholarships Without Wasting Months on the Wrong Applications?

Join the Opportunities for Women Founding Membership and get the support, strategy, and practical resources you need to stop searching randomly and start applying with direction. Inside the membership, you get funding guidance, scholarship strategy, templates, opportunity breakdowns, application planning support, and practical resources for women looking for grants, scholarships, fellowships, remote jobs, business opportunities, and growth resources.

Whether you are looking for scholarships for women in Africa, grants and scholarships for African women, study abroad scholarships for African women, remote jobs, business funding, or career growth opportunities, the membership helps you understand what to apply for, how to prepare, and how to present yourself clearly and confidently. It does not promise that you will win funding. It helps you stop guessing and start building a smarter application plan.

Join the Opportunities for Women Founding Membership today and give yourself a clearer, more strategic way to find and prepare for the right opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there fully funded scholarships for women in Africa?

Yes, there are fully funded scholarships for African women, but you must be careful with the wording. Some programs are fully funded, some are partially funded, and some provide grants or awards that reduce costs but do not cover everything. Chevening, for example, describes its UK master’s scholarship as fully funded. Other scholarships may cover tuition, stipend, travel, research, accommodation, or only part of the total cost. Always read the official page before calling any award fully funded. (chevening.org)

2. Can African women apply for scholarships to study abroad without IELTS?

Sometimes, but not always. Some universities or scholarships may accept proof of previous English-medium study, alternative tests, internal assessments, or country-based exemptions. Others require IELTS, TOEFL, or another English test. Do not assume you can avoid IELTS because someone online said so. Check the scholarship page and the university admission page. If the scholarship requires admission first, the university’s English rule may matter more than the scholarship’s general statement.

3. What scholarships are best for African women in STEM?

Strong options include WAAW Foundation Scholarship, OWSD PhD Fellowships, OWSD Early Career Fellowship, Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future, L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Sub-Saharan Africa, Zonta Amelia Earhart Fellowship, Zonta Women in STEM Award, Mastercard Foundation partner opportunities, DAAD programs, and Türkiye Scholarships. The best choice depends on whether you are undergraduate, master’s, PhD, postdoctoral, or already working in research.

4. Can single mothers in Africa apply for international scholarships?

Yes, single mothers in Africa can apply for many international scholarships if they meet the eligibility rules. However, they should read the dependent, living allowance, visa, accommodation, and family support rules carefully. Some scholarships may not provide extra funding for children or dependents. A single mother should prepare a practical plan that explains study readiness, childcare support, family arrangements, finances, and why the program is realistic.

5. How early should African women start preparing scholarship applications?

Start at least three to six months before the deadline if possible. For major international scholarships, start even earlier because you may need a passport, transcripts, certified documents, admission applications, English test results, references, essays, research proposal, and proof of leadership or financial need. If you wait until the deadline month, you may still apply, but your documents may look rushed. A 90-day scholarship plan gives you a better chance to submit organized, focused, and funder-aligned applications.