Africa Development Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded opportunity for talented master’s students from Sub-Saharan Africa to study at the University of Leicester in the UK. This scholarship covers full tuition fees for a one-year postgraduate taught programme starting in September 2026, supporting individuals committed to societal development and personal growth.
The University of Leicester is a leading research institution in the UK, known for its commitment to global education and development. By offering this scholarship, the university aims to empower students from Sub-Saharan Africa to become future leaders and contribute positively to their communities.
Benefits of Africa Development Scholarship 2026
- 2 x full tuition fee waiver for a one year master’s degree (postgraduate taught programme) commencing in September 2026
Eligibility Criteria for the Africa Development Scholarship 2026
- You must be classified as an international student for fee purposes.
- You must be a permanent resident and passport holder of a country within Sub-Saharan Africa.
- You must be starting a full-time, campus-based master’s degree (postgraduate degree), commencing in September 2026.
- PGCE, postgraduate certificate and postgraduate diploma are excluded.
- You must possess a qualification of second class upper or higher class degree (equivalent to UK 2:1 or 1st Class), verified by your course application.
- If you currently have a conditional offer of a place at the University, you will still need to fulfil any conditions stated on your offer letter.
- The award will be applied to tuition fees only and is not transferable.
- Successful students will still be required to fund their own accommodation and living expenses and submit proof of these funds by the given deadline via an official University agent.
- No other university scholarships or discounts may be applied in addition to this fee waiver (unless explicitly stated).
- If you are a sponsored student, you may still qualify for this fee waiver provided you meet all other eligibility criteria.
- This fee waiver applies only to the academic year in which you start your course, not the year you apply.
- If you defer your place to the following academic year, your fee waiver offer will no longer be valid.
How to Apply for the Africa Development Scholarship 2026?
- Eligible applicants will be asked to submit an application (via Microsoft form) which includes a 500-word written essay.
- Your written essay must demonstrate a strong understanding of the challenges facing your community and a commitment to making a positive contribution to societal development.
- Your written essay must outline any previous contributions you have made to your community or society and how you plan to build on these efforts after completing your chosen master’s programme.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Africa Development Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What does the Africa Development Scholarship cover?
The scholarship provides a full tuition fee waiver for a one-year master’s degree (postgraduate taught programme) at the University of Leicester, starting in September 2026. It does not cover living expenses, accommodation, visa, or other costs.
Who is eligible for the Africa Development Scholarship?
Eligible applicants are international fee-paying students who hold an offer to study a Postgraduate Taught Programme from September 2026 and are permanently domiciled in any country within Sub-Saharan Africa. They must possess a qualification equivalent to a UK 2:1 or 1st Class degree.
How do I apply for the Africa Development Scholarship?
Eligible applicants must submit an application via a Microsoft form, which includes a 500-word written essay. The essay should demonstrate understanding of community challenges and commitment to societal development, as well as outline previous contributions and future plans.
When is the deadline for the Africa Development Scholarship?
Applications open on Monday 16 February 2026 and close on Sunday 31 May 2026. Applicants will be notified by Tuesday 14 July 2026.
Can I apply if I have a conditional offer?
Yes, if you currently have a conditional offer of a place at the University, you will still need to fulfil any conditions stated on your offer letter to be eligible for the scholarship.
Is the Africa Development Scholarship renewable?
No, the fee waiver applies only to the academic year in which you start your course. If you defer your place to the following academic year, the fee waiver offer will no longer be valid.
Can I combine this scholarship with other funding?
No other university scholarships or discounts may be applied in addition to this fee waiver, unless explicitly stated. Sponsored students may still qualify if they meet all other eligibility criteria.
What programmes are excluded from this scholarship?
PGCE, postgraduate certificate, and postgraduate diploma programmes are excluded. Only full-time, campus-based master’s degrees (postgraduate taught programmes) commencing in September 2026 are eligible.
Do I need to prove I have funds for living expenses?
Yes, successful students must still prove they hold sufficient funds for living expenses, accommodation, visa, and other relevant expenses. Proof of funds must be submitted via an official University agent by Tuesday 30 June 2026.
What is the selection process for the Africa Development Scholarship?
Eligible applicants submit a 500-word essay via a Microsoft form. The essay is assessed based on understanding of community challenges, commitment to societal development, and previous contributions. Successful candidates are notified by 14 July 2026.
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