Applications are now open for the 2026 Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarship Programme. The University of Oxford and the Mastercard Foundation have formed a bold partnership under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx), working with the Saïd Business School Foundation to offer up to five fully funded MBA scholarships for the 2026‑27 intake.
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Living‑cost grant (minimum £20,780)
- Tailor‑made training programmes (leadership and impact development)
- Networking opportunities
- Support before, during, and following studies (including post‑MBA service placement, mentorship, alumni network, career support)
Requirements for AfOx Scholarship
- Must be an African citizen, ordinarily residing in Africa
- Demonstrated commitment to Africa’s development
- Meet admission criteria for the Oxford MBA programme (strong academic record, leadership potential, etc.)
How to Apply
- No separate scholarship application is required
- Submit your standard MBA application to the Saïd Business School by 7 January 2026, and indicate interest in the AfOx Scholarship in the application
- If shortlisted, you will be contacted by the University for further steps (e.g. interview)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
These FAQs clarify the AfOx Graduate Scholarship: it’s a fully funded MBA opportunity at Oxford, offering tuition, a living grant, training and support for up to five African nationals annually. No separate application—just apply for the MBA by 7 Jan 2026.
What is the AfOx Graduate Scholarship about?
It’s a partnership enabling up to five full-funded scholarships for African nationals applying to the one-year MBA, covering course fees, a generous living grant, plus training, networking and ongoing support throughout the Oxford experience.
Who is eligible for the AfOx Graduate Scholarship?
This opportunity is for African citizens who currently reside in Africa and can show a genuine commitment to Africa’s development. It’s not open to others, so eligibility hinges on nationality, residence, and development focus.
What does the scholarship cover?
Recipients get full tuition and a living-cost grant of at least £20,780. Beyond finances, they benefit from tailored training, networking and support before, during and after their MBA at Saïd Business School—holistic growth included.
How many scholarships are offered?
There are up to five AfOx Graduate Scholarships available each year for the MBA. It’s a highly limited and competitive opportunity, highlighting both the prestige and the selectivity of the award.
Do I need to submit a separate scholarship application?
No separate form is required. If you submit a complete MBA application by the deadline, you’re automatically in the running. If shortlisted, the school will reach out—your MBA application itself doubles as your scholarship submission.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for the MBA application to be considered for this scholarship is 7 January 2026. Make sure your full MBA application is in by that date if you want to be automatically considered.
Is there support beyond financial aid?
Absolutely. Scholars receive tailored training programmes, networking opportunities, and continued support before, during and after the program. It’s more than funding—it’s a full leadership development journey.
Is the scholarship limited to MBA applicants only?
Yes. For this cycle, the AfOx Graduate Scholarships are specifically tied to the one-year MBA programme at Saïd Business School. The relation to the MBA is explicit and exclusive for award eligibility.
Do I need to be resident in Africa when applying?
Yes, you must both be a citizen of an African country and ordinarily resident there at the time of application. That dual requirement is essential to be eligible for consideration.
What kind of commitment to Africa is expected?
You’ll need to demonstrate genuine commitment to Africa’s development—through service, work or leadership. It’s about having both the intention and track record to contribute meaningfully to the continent’s future.
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