The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship at SOAS University of London is one of the most distinguished fully financed master’s scholarships available for African students wishing to study postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom for the academic year 2026/2027.
This fellowship, funded by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, is intended to encourage excellent individuals who are committed to leadership, governance, and sustainable development in Africa. The Foundation’s long-standing commitment to improving institutions and developing future African leaders is reflected in this scholarship.
For the academic year 2026/2027, two prizes will be available. Each scholarship is valued at around £45,479. This sum covers the whole tuition fee, with any remaining balance paid directly to the student as a maintenance stipend to meet living expenses in the UK.
This makes the grant a fully financed opportunity, removing the financial barrier to studying abroad for successful students.
The scholarship is available to students pursuing a full-time, one-year master’s degree program at SOAS University of London starting in September 2026.
Applicants can select from a wide range of subjects offered at SOAS, as long as the program fits the scholarship requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the award, candidates must:
- Be a new student who begins studies in September 2026.
- Maintain foreign fee status.
- Have at least a UK 2:1 Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent.
* Have an unconditional offer of admission before the scholarship selection process.
Candidates who are habitually living in Africa and have a significant interest in governance, leadership, or development issues impacting the continent will be given preference.
Selection Criteria
Applicants are evaluated based on:
- Academic excellence.
- Strength of personal assertion.
- Showed dedication to Africa’s development.
- The proposed study’s influence on governance or leadership.
Before making final decisions, the scholarship panel thoroughly evaluates both the admissions and scholarship applications.
Application Timeline
Applications open: May 2026.
Deadline: June 17, 2026 (12 noon UK time)
Notification of Results: Starting mid-July 2026
Early application is highly recommended since admission processing might take several weeks.
How to Apply
1. Apply for a full-time master’s program at SOAS University in London.
2. Secure an admission offer (ideally unconditional).
3. Submit the scholarship application via the SOAS admissions site before the deadline.
official link HERE
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship at SOAS provides more than simply financial assistance; it is also a leadership development pathway for African students who are committed to making significant change in governance, policy, and development throughout the continent.
If you want to pursue a fully supported Master’s degree in the United Kingdom, this is one of the best possibilities to seize early.
