Understanding the Mo Ibrahim Foundation SOAS Scholarship
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation SOAS Scholarship offers a significant opportunity for African students pursuing postgraduate studies at SOAS University of London. This fully funded scholarship aims to support emerging leaders dedicated to the advancement of Africa. It covers tuition fees and provides a living stipend, making advanced education more accessible for talented individuals from across the continent.
Scholarship Overview
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation, an organization focused on improving leadership and governance in Africa, has established this scholarship at SOAS University of London. The program is designed to nurture future leaders who are committed to contributing to Africa’s development. It is open to students from all African countries who meet specific academic and admission requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Mo Ibrahim Foundation SOAS Scholarship, applicants must meet several key requirements. Firstly, they must be newly admitted students intending to start their studies in September 2026. Applicants should also have an overseas fee status. A crucial academic requirement is holding a minimum of a 2:1 bachelor’s degree from a UK university or an equivalent international qualification. Furthermore, candidates must possess an unconditional offer for their chosen program at SOAS by the time the scholarship selection panel convenes.
Scholarship Benefits and Duration
The scholarship provides substantial financial support for the duration of the study program. For the 2026/27 academic year, there are two awards available, each valued at £45,479. This amount is intended to cover all tuition fees, with any remaining balance being disbursed directly to the student as a maintenance stipend to help with living costs. The scholarship is awarded for the full duration of the postgraduate program.
Application Documents
Prospective candidates need to prepare a specific set of documents for their scholarship application. These include a copy of the unconditional offer letter received from the SOAS admissions office. Applicants must also submit a Curriculum Vitae (CV), ensuring their email address is clearly stated. A statement, limited to a maximum of two pages, is required to outline the applicant’s knowledge and interest in governance-related issues. If the chosen program requires a research proposal, this must also be submitted as it was sent to the SOAS Admissions Office. Finally, one academic reference letter is needed, which should be sent directly by the referee to the designated email address: [email protected].
Application Process
The application for the Mo Ibrahim Foundation SOAS Scholarship involves a few distinct steps. First, applicants must apply for a master’s degree program at SOAS University of London. Information on applying for taught master’s programs can be found on the SOAS website. Once an application for a course is submitted, applicants will receive login credentials for the admissions portal. The scholarship application itself must be submitted through this portal by 12 noon UK local time on June 17, 2026. It is important to ensure all required documents are uploaded and the application is completed before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mo Ibrahim Foundation SOAS Scholarship?
It’s a fully funded scholarship for African students pursuing postgraduate studies at SOAS University of London, aiming to support future leaders in Africa’s development.
Who is eligible for this scholarship?
Eligibility requires being a new student with overseas fee status, holding a minimum 2:1 bachelor’s degree, and having an unconditional offer for a SOAS program starting in September 2026.
What does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship covers tuition fees and provides a living stipend for the duration of the postgraduate program. For 2026/27, two awards of £45,479 are available.
How do I apply for the scholarship?
First, apply for a master’s program at SOAS. Then, submit your scholarship application, including an offer letter, CV, statement, and reference, through the SOAS admissions portal by June 17, 2026.
