African STARS MSc Scholarship 2025 is now open for early-career African scientists passionate about bioinformatics and infectious disease research. This fully funded scholarship presents an exceptional opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree in Bioinformatics of Infectious Diseases and Pathogen Genomics at Stellenbosch University, South Africa. Supported by the Mastercard Foundation and offered in collaboration with Institut Pasteur de Dakar and CERI, this program is tailored for students ready to tackle some of Africa’s most pressing health challenges through cutting-edge research.
Applicants selected for the African STARS MSc Scholarship 2025 will gain access to world-class mentorship, advanced laboratory training, and a dynamic academic environment. The program not only covers tuition and living costs but also opens doors to a global scientific network. If you’re committed to making an impact in public health and scientific innovation across Africa, this scholarship offers the ideal platform to accelerate your academic and professional journey.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: South Africa
- Host Institutions: Centre for Epidemic Response & Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch University; Institut Pasteur de Dakar (IPD), Senegal
- Study Level: Master’s (MSc)
- Funding: Fully funded, including tuition, accommodation, living stipend, research costs, airfare, and health insurance
- Duration: 2 years
- Application Deadlines: 26 June 2025
Benefits
- Comprehensive financial support covering tuition, accommodation, living stipend, research costs, airfare, and health insurance
- Access to world-class facilities and hands-on research training in infectious disease bioinformatics labs
- Mentorship, professional development, and a peer network comprising future African science leaders
Eligibility Criteria
- Born in and/or currently living in Africa
- Age 35 or younger at application time
- Hold a BSc Honours (NQF Level 8) or equivalent 4-year degree with ≥ 65% in relevant disciplines
- Women are strongly encouraged to apply
Scholarship Overview
The African STARS MSc programme is a two-year, multidisciplinary training initiative designed to equip future African leaders in pathogen genomics and bioinformatics:
- Year 1:
- Structured 9-month lecture block covering Statistics & Bioinformatics (core), plus elective capstone modules in Infectious Diseases or Pathogen Genomics
- Includes career development workshops tailored for LMIC researchers
- Year 2:
- Over 1 year of hands-on research training in top-tier infectious disease laboratories at Stellenbosch University, culminating in a bioinformatics research project
- Continuous support via dual mentorship—supervisors from Stellenbosch and partner institutions (e.g., Institut Pasteur), plus access to virtual mentors from collaborating international institutions
- Fellows benefit from a robust career support system, which includes workshops, mentorship, and networking opportunities across participating institutions.
Application Procedure
Step 1: Scholarship Application
Complete the scholarship pre-selection form via the African STARS portal.
📅 Deadline: 26 June 2025
Step 2: University Admission
Apply separately to Stellenbosch University for MSc admission.
📅 Deadline:
- 31 August 2025 (International applicants)
- 30 September 2025 (South African applicants)
Step 3: Selection Process
Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed in August 2025.
Admission decisions follow in September, and scholarship results will be announced by October 2025.
📄 Required Documents
- CV/résumé
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Motivation letter / personal statement
- Two academic or professional references
- Proof of ID or nationality (e.g., passport)
💡 Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Highlight research or project work in bioinformatics, genomics, or statistics
- Show commitment to Africa and post-study community impact
- Demonstrate leadership, teamwork, and alignment with Mastercard Foundation goals
- Express motivation for infectious disease research
- Submit both applications on time
📧 Contact for Support
Maambele Khosa — [email protected] / [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The African STARS MSc Scholarship 2025 offers fully funded opportunities for African students under 35 to pursue a two-year MSc in Bioinformatics at Stellenbosch University. It covers all costs, including tuition, accommodation, stipend, research expenses, travel, and health insurance.
What is the African STARS MSc Scholarship 2025?
The African STARS MSc Scholarship 2025 is a fully funded opportunity for African students to pursue a two-year MSc in Bioinformatics of Infectious Diseases and Pathogen Genomics at Stellenbosch University, South Africa. It includes tuition, accommodation, stipend, research costs, travel, and health insurance.
Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?
Applicants must be born in and/or living in Africa, 35 years old or younger at the time of application, and hold a BSc Honours (NQF level 8) or equivalent 4-year degree with at least 65% in fields like Bioinformatics, Data Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Biochemistry, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or related areas.
What is the deadline for applying for the scholarship?
The deadline to apply for the African STARS Fellowship is 26 June 2025. Additionally, applicants must submit a formal application to Stellenbosch University for admission to the MSc Programme by 31 August 2025 for international applicants and 30 September 2025 for South African applicants.
What does the MSc programme entail?
The two-year MSc programme runs from February 2026 to January 2028 at Stellenbosch University. It includes a 9-month lecture block with compulsory modules in Statistics and Bioinformatics, elective modules in Infectious Diseases or Pathogen Genomics, over a year of hands-on research training, career development workshops, and ongoing mentorship.
What costs are covered by the scholarship?
The African STARS Fellowship covers the full cost of the MSc programme, including tuition fees, accommodation, living stipend, research-related expenses, air travel expenses, and health insurance. This comprehensive funding ensures that scholars can focus entirely on their studies and research.
How do I apply for the scholarship?
To apply, first complete the African STARS Fellowship application form by 26 June 2025. Then, submit a formal application to Stellenbosch University for admission to the MSc Programme by the respective deadlines: 31 August 2025 for international applicants and 30 September 2025 for South African applicants.
Are there any specific academic requirements?
Yes, applicants must hold a BSc Honours (NQF level 8) or equivalent 4-year degree with at least 65% in relevant fields such as Bioinformatics, Data Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Biochemistry, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or related disciplines.
Is there any age limit for applicants?
Yes, applicants must be 35 years old or younger at the time of application. This age criterion ensures the programme supports early-career scientists in Africa who are poised to contribute significantly to the field of infectious diseases and pathogen genomics.
Are women encouraged to apply?
Absolutely, women are strongly encouraged to apply for the African STARS MSc Scholarship 2025. The programme aims to promote gender diversity and inclusivity in the field of bioinformatics and pathogen genomics across the African continent.
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