Over the years, Africa has seen significant improvements in the standard of education, which has increased the number of African and international students seeking to obtain degrees and postgraduate scholarships in Africa. Countries such as South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Morocco, Egypt, and Ghana are among those offering quality education that meets global standards.
There are various scholarship opportunities, usually depending on the area of study or institution of choice, open for postgraduate studies in Africa, such as MasterCard scholarships, Intra-Africa Academic Mobility Scheme, CREATES master’s, and PhD scholarships for African students, among others.
Many people struggle with the idea of the best time to begin applications for scholarships. This article covers the best approach to applying for scholarships in African universities for postgraduate studies, giving detailed timelines.
STEPS TO SUCESSFULLY GET POSTGRADUATE SCHOLARSHIPS IN AFRICA
1. Research Schools and Scholarships
The first step is to identify what scholarship opportunities are available and those offered by the institution you intend to attend, as most African scholarships are institution- or region-specific. While some application windows fall between May and August, such as the Chevening scholarships and the African Union scholarship scheme, others open in September and close in January. An example of this is the MasterCard scholarships.
2. Check Eligibility Criteria
Visit the website of the scholarship provider or your choice institution and find out their eligibility criteria. Ensure you meet up with benchmarks before beginning your application. This step is crucial as it provides you all the information for the next step. It is essential to begin at least 10 months before the opening of the application window.
3. Gather all Essential Documents
Two to three months before the portals open, start gathering all necessary documents as specified by the institution. Request for official transcripts early enough to avoid rush or delayed processing. Other documents include a statement of result, proof of citizenship, a detailed CV, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Be thorough in your research, as individual scholarship requirements may vary.
4. Submit an Outstanding Application
Now is the time to start submitting applications. Complete your online applications and ensure that all supporting documents such as your CV, motivation letter, letters of recommendation, and research proposals are properly drafted and scanned in the prescribed format to prevent delays or rejections. It is important to personalize these documents in relation to the institution you are applying to. Do not use generic documents for your applications.
5. Prepare for Interviews
Once you have successfully submitted your application, the next phase will be the interviews. Most scholarship bodies will invite you for an interview, so you need to get ready. Research the scholarship body, the institution of choice, and any relevant information. Be articulate, outline your achievements, experiences, and goals, practice common interview questions, dress smartly, and lastly, be punctual, as you need to make a good first impression.
CONCLUSION
Applying for scholarships shouldn’t be a hassle. With proper research and planning, you put yourself at an advantage. Ensure that all documents meet the required standard and are readily available to avoid last minute struggles. Carefully write and personalize all supporting documents, such as statements of purpose and recommendation letters to align with your goals.
Finally, in the words of James Baker, “proper planning prevents poor performance.” To avoid last-minute rush, be sure to begin the process at least 10 months before the application window opens. Click here to see application essentials for scholarship applications.
