For many African students, studying in the United States is a dream filled with possibilities — access to world-class education, cutting-edge research facilities, and an international network of professionals. However, the cost of tuition, living expenses, and travel can be a significant barrier. Fortunately, a variety of fully funded scholarships are available for African students that cover tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and even travel expenses.
This guide provides a detailed list of the best USA scholarships for African students in 2025, along with eligibility criteria and tips for applying successfully.
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships in the world, funded by the U.S. government. It supports international students, including Africans, to pursue master’s or doctoral degrees in the United States.
Benefits:
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Full tuition coverage
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Living stipend
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Health insurance
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Round-trip airfare
Eligibility:
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Must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent
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Demonstrated academic excellence
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Strong leadership potential
Tip: Since competition is high, highlight your leadership experience and how your studies will benefit your home country.
2. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Partnering with several top U.S. universities such as Stanford, Arizona State, and University of California, Berkeley, the Mastercard Foundation provides full scholarships to talented African students.
Benefits:
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Full tuition and accommodation
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Monthly living allowance
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Mentorship and career development support
Eligibility:
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Academic merit and community involvement
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Proven financial need
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Commitment to returning to Africa to make an impact
3. African Graduate Fellowship at the American University in Cairo
Though based in Egypt, the American University in Cairo partners with U.S. institutions and offers fellowships to African students for graduate study, with exchange opportunities in the U.S.
Benefits:
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Full tuition
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Monthly stipend
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Medical insurance
Eligibility:
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African citizenship (excluding Egyptians)
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Excellent academic record
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Strong English proficiency
4. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
This program funds students from developing countries, including African nations, to study development-related subjects at selected U.S. universities.
Benefits:
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Full tuition
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Living stipend
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Travel allowance
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Health insurance
Eligibility:
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Relevant work experience in development
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Commitment to return to your home country after graduation
5. Obama Foundation Scholars Program at Columbia University
The Obama Foundation offers a leadership-focused scholarship for emerging leaders from Africa and other regions to study at Columbia University in New York.
Benefits:
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Full tuition and fees
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Monthly stipend
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Fully furnished apartment
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Health insurance
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Air travel
Eligibility:
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Proven leadership in community or public service
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Commitment to making a global impact
6. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program
The Aga Khan Foundation offers need-based scholarships for postgraduate studies at reputable U.S. institutions to outstanding students from developing countries, including Africa.
Benefits:
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Covers tuition and living expenses (50% grant, 50% loan)
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Opportunities for leadership training
Eligibility:
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Strong academic performance
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Financial need
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Commitment to improving quality of life in developing countries
7. Stanford Africa MBA Fellowship
This fellowship supports talented Africans to pursue an MBA at the Stanford Graduate School of Business.
Benefits:
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Full tuition for the two-year MBA program
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Leadership development opportunities
Eligibility:
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African citizenship
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Commitment to returning to Africa after the MBA
8. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
Though not a degree program, this fellowship offers mid-career professionals from Africa the chance to engage in professional development in the U.S.
Benefits:
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Tuition and fees at assigned U.S. institutions
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Living allowance
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Travel expenses
Eligibility:
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Strong leadership skills
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Minimum of five years of professional experience
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Record of public service
9. Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders
Part of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), this fellowship offers African professionals leadership training and academic coursework in the U.S.
Benefits:
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Fully funded leadership program
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Professional networking
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Career development support
Eligibility:
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Ages 25–35
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Demonstrated leadership in business, civic engagement, or public service
10. AAUW International Fellowships
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers scholarships for women from around the world, including Africa, to study full-time in the U.S.
Benefits:
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Funding up to $50,000
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Covers tuition, living expenses, and research costs
Eligibility:
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Female students only
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Academic excellence
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Commitment to advancing women’s rights and opportunities
Application Tips for African Students
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Start Early – Many scholarship deadlines are 9–12 months before the academic year starts.
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Prepare Strong Essays – Personal statements should show your passion, leadership, and how you’ll make a difference.
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Get Great Recommendations – Choose referees who know your achievements and character well.
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Demonstrate Impact – Scholarship committees want to see how you’ll contribute to your home country after graduation.
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Meet All Requirements – Double-check eligibility, language proficiency, and required documents before applying.
Final Thoughts
Studying in the United States as an African student is no longer an unreachable dream — thanks to these fully funded scholarships. Whether you’re aiming for a master’s degree in public policy, an MBA, or leadership training, there’s a program that can support your academic and professional journey. By preparing early, showcasing your leadership potential, and demonstrating your commitment to making an impact, you can increase your chances of securing a life-changing scholarship in 2025.