Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship: A Gateway for African Leaders

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship offers a significant opportunity for aspiring leaders dedicated to advancing governance and development across Africa. Established by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, this scholarship aims to support individuals committed to making a difference on the continent. It provides financial assistance for postgraduate studies, specifically targeting those who wish to deepen their understanding and skills in areas critical to Africa’s progress.

Understanding the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation is an African organization focused on fostering strong leadership and good governance throughout the continent. Founded and funded by Mo Ibrahim, the foundation’s work is centered on empowering African nations and their citizens. The scholarship program at SOAS (School of Oriental and African Studies) is a direct extension of this mission, designed to cultivate the next generation of African leaders.

The scholarship is awarded to two recipients each academic year, covering a total value of £45,479. This amount is intended to cover tuition fees, with any remaining balance provided to the student as a stipend for living expenses. This financial support is crucial for enabling students to focus on their studies without the overwhelming burden of educational costs.

Eligibility Requirements for Applicants

To be considered for the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship, applicants must meet a specific set of criteria. Firstly, they must be applying for new admission to start their studies in September 2026. The scholarship is designated for students who fall under the “Overseas fee status,” meaning they are not considered domestic students for fee purposes.

Academically, candidates are required to possess a minimum of a 2:1 bachelor’s degree from a university in the UK or an equivalent qualification from an international institution. A critical requirement is holding an unconditional offer for their chosen program of study by the time the scholarship selection panel convenes. It is important to note that this scholarship does not provide funding for pre-sessional courses or programs.

Application Process for the Scholarship

The application for the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship involves a two-step process. The first step requires applicants to formally apply for their chosen master’s degree program at SOAS. Prospective students can find detailed information on how to apply for taught master’s programs on the SOAS admissions website. It is advisable to submit your application for admission as early as possible, as the department’s review process can take up to four weeks, and potentially longer during peak periods.

The second step is to apply for the scholarship itself. This must be done through the SOAS admissions portal by 12 noon UK local time on June 17, 2026. To access the scholarship application, you will need to have already applied for a course and obtained login credentials for the portal. Further details and specific instructions can be found on the SOAS website dedicated to the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship?

It’s a scholarship offered by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation to support African leaders pursuing postgraduate studies at SOAS, focusing on governance and development.

Who is eligible for this scholarship?

Eligible candidates must be applying for a master’s program at SOAS for September 2026, have ‘Overseas fee status’, and hold a bachelor’s degree with at least a 2:1 or equivalent.