Understanding the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship at SOAS University of London

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship at SOAS University of London offers a significant opportunity for African students pursuing master’s degrees. This scholarship, funded by Dr. Mo Ibrahim, aims to support future leaders focused on improving governance and development across Africa. It provides full funding for a one-year taught master’s program at SOAS, a leading institution for African, Asian, and Middle Eastern studies. This article breaks down what the scholarship entails, who can apply, and how to submit an application.

Scholarship Overview and Benefits

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship is designed to provide comprehensive support for two successful candidates each academic year. The scholarship is valued at £45,479 and covers all tuition fees for a full-time, one-year taught master’s degree at SOAS University of London. Beyond tuition, the remaining funds are disbursed directly to the student as a maintenance stipend. This stipend is intended to help cover living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and study materials.

Recipients gain more than just financial aid; they access a world-class education in the United Kingdom and become part of a global network of scholars and professionals. The program’s focus on African governance and development ensures that scholars gain specialized knowledge and skills directly applicable to the continent’s challenges. This academic and professional exposure is crucial for developing future leaders who can drive positive change.

Eligible Master’s Programmes

The scholarship is open to students enrolling in any full-time, one-year taught master’s degree program at SOAS University of London for the 2026/2027 academic session. SOAS offers a wide array of master’s programs, many of which align with interests in African studies, development, international relations, and governance. Prospective applicants are encouraged to explore the full list of available master’s degrees on the SOAS website to find a program that matches their academic and career aspirations. It is important to note that pre-sessional programs are not covered by this scholarship.

Eligibility Requirements for Applicants

To be considered for the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship, candidates must meet a specific set of criteria. Firstly, they must be new students starting their master’s program in September 2026 and hold an “Overseas” fee status. Academically, applicants need a minimum of a 2:1 bachelor’s degree, which can be from a UK university or an equivalent international institution. A critical requirement is holding an unconditional offer for an eligible master’s program before the scholarship selection panel meets. The scholarship is strictly for full-time, one-year taught master’s programs. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Preference for African Candidates

While the scholarship is open to eligible international students, the Mo Ibrahim Foundation gives preference to applicants who meet certain conditions. These include being ordinarily resident in Africa, demonstrating a strong interest in African governance, and showing a commitment to development issues affecting African communities and institutions. Applicants should clearly articulate these interests and commitments within their personal statements and other application materials to strengthen their candidacy. This preference underscores the scholarship’s core mission to foster leadership within the African continent.

Application Process

The application process for the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship involves two main steps. First, candidates must apply for admission to an eligible master’s program at SOAS University of London. It is advisable to apply for admission early, as processing can take between four to six weeks, especially during peak periods. Once an admission application is submitted, candidates can then proceed to apply for the scholarship through the admissions portal, using their course application login credentials.

The deadline for the scholarship application is 17 June 2026 at 12 noon United Kingdom local time. It is highly recommended that both the admission and scholarship applications are submitted well in advance of this deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.

Selection and Assessment

A dedicated scholarship selection panel will assess all applications. The evaluation will be based on several key factors: academic excellence, the quality of the personal statement, and a demonstrated commitment to African governance and development. The overall strength of the application materials, including information provided in both the admissions and scholarship applications, will be taken into account. Applicants are specifically warned against using generative Artificial Intelligence tools to write their personal statements, although AI can be used for grammar checking, spelling correction, and structuring ideas. The goal is for statements to genuinely reflect the applicant’s personal experiences and motivations.

Notification Timeline

The selection and award process for the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship is expected to conclude by mid-July 2026. Successful candidates will be contacted first to confirm their awards. Unsuccessful applicants will be notified once all scholarship awards have been finalized and allocated. This timeline allows ample time for recipients to make necessary arrangements for their studies in the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship at SOAS cover?

The scholarship covers full tuition fees for a one-year taught master’s program at SOAS and provides a maintenance stipend for living expenses, valued at £45,479.

Who is eligible to apply for this scholarship?

Eligible applicants are new students starting a full-time, one-year taught master’s program in September 2026, with an ‘Overseas’ fee status, and a minimum of a 2:1 bachelor’s degree.

Is there a preference for certain applicants?

Yes, the Mo Ibrahim Foundation gives preference to applicants who are ordinarily resident in Africa and show a strong interest in and commitment to African governance and development issues.

What is the deadline for the scholarship application?

The deadline for the scholarship application is 17 June 2026 at 12 noon United Kingdom local time. It’s recommended to apply for both admission and the scholarship well in advance.