Struggling to find scholarships for women in Africa? Discover this informative guide featuring 4 incredible scholarship opportunities tailored specifically for African women. Unearth the keys to unlock your educational dreams and pave the way for a brighter future. Here are the Scholarships For Women In Africa.
1.Leiden University Excellence Scholarships 2024-25
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship Programme (LExS) for 2024-25 provides exceptional opportunities for non-EEA/non-EFTA students pursuing a full-time master’s degree at Leiden University, Netherlands.
Eligible Programs:
This scholarship encompasses all full-time master’s programs at Leiden University, except for specific cases, which include:
- Leiden Law School’s LLM (non-advanced) and MSc programs.
- Programs commencing in February at the Faculty of Humanities, the Faculty of Sciences, and Leiden Law School.
Target Group:
This scholarship caters to non-EEA/non-EFTA nationals, with specific programs open to students of all nationalities. For a complete list of eligible courses, refer to the official website.
Scholarship Value:
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship program comprises three distinct awards:
- €10,000 to cover the tuition fee.
- €15,000 to offset the tuition fee.
- A scholarship covering the total tuition fee, excluding the statutory tuition fee.
It’s important to note that the LExS is not a full scholarship. Non-EEA LExS recipients are required to provide ‘proof of sufficient funds’ for their student visa or residence permit application.
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible, students must have a track record of outstanding academic performance in their previous education, directly relevant to the master’s program they are applying for. As a general guideline, the student should rank within the top 10% of graduates in their previous study program. Please note that proof of ranking is not mandatory but serves as a reference for competitiveness.
Applicants must also hold a non non-EEA/non-EFTA* passport and should not qualify for financial support under the Dutch system of study grants and loans (Studiefinanciering), except for specific cases, such as students applying for the LLM Advanced Studies programs or the MSc in International Relations and Diplomacy, which have no nationality restrictions. Non-EEA/non-EFTA nationals refer to all EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
Application Process:
To apply for the LExS, you must first complete an online application for admission to a master’s program at Leiden University. If you meet the eligibility criteria for the LExS, you will find it in the scholarships section of the online application system. During the application, make it clear that you wish to be considered for the LExS scholarship and submit your motivation letter. Deadlines for September and February program starts are 1 February and 1 October, respectively.
For detailed application guidelines and access to the online application form, please visit the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS).
2. Denmark Government Scholarships for Non-EU Students 2024-25
The Danish Government extends a warm invitation to highly qualified international students from around the globe, offering them the opportunity to pursue their studies in Denmark. Annually, the Danish Ministry of Education provides scholarships to support students hailing from countries outside the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) in their pursuit of full-degree higher education programs.
Fields of Study:
Eligible full-time higher education programs offered by participating HEIs in Denmark.
Target Group:
Non-European Union (EU)/European Economic Area (EEA) international students are the primary beneficiaries of these scholarships.
Scholarship Benefits:
The government-sponsored scholarship comprises two components, offering either full or partial tuition fee waivers and grants to assist with living expenses. The exact nature of these awards may vary, as each higher education institution manages them individually. Thus, it is advisable to inquire about the specific details from your chosen institution.
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible to apply for this scholarship, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship from a country outside the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland.
- Enrollment in a full-degree higher education program.
- Holding a time-limited residence permit in Denmark for educational purposes.
Application Process:
The administration of these scholarships is the responsibility of Danish higher education institutions, which have the authority to select the recipients. For comprehensive information regarding the government scholarship, we recommend consulting the admission details provided by your chosen higher education institution. These institutions can also offer guidance on entry requirements, course particulars, application deadlines, and available student services.
Application Deadlines:
Deadlines for application submission vary according to your selected university and study program. Typically, they fall around March-April for entry in September of the same year or around September-October for entry in February of the following year.
For in-depth guidance on how to apply for this scholarship, it is imperative to visit the official website of your chosen university. Additional information can be found on the official scholarship website.
3. Heinrich Boll Scholarships in Germany for International Students
The Heinrich Böll Foundation offers scholarships to international students aspiring to pursue Master’s or PhD Degrees in Germany. It is a valuable opportunity, especially for those who completed their university entrance qualification outside of Germany.
Fields of Study:
The scholarships are open to Master’s and PhD students in all fields of study provided by German state or state-recognized universities.
Scholarship Details:
The Heinrich Böll Foundation provides financial support for Master’s and PhD students:
Master’s Studies:
- Non-EU students receive €934 per month plus individual allowances, including potential health insurance coverage. Tuition fees may also be covered.
- EU students are eligible for support that varies, with a maximum of €812 per month and an additional €300 for books. Tuition fees are not covered in Germany but may be partially covered elsewhere.
- The scholarship duration typically aligns with the standard study period and can be extended for an extra semester.
PhD Studies:
- Non-EU students receive €1,200 per month, a €100 monthly mobility allowance, and various individual allowances. Tuition fees are not covered.
- EU students can access a basic scholarship of €1,350 per month, along with a €100 monthly research costs allowance. Tuition fees are not covered in Germany but may be partially covered elsewhere.
- The scholarship is usually awarded for three years, extendable by up to 12 months.
Eligibility:
To qualify for this scholarship:
Master’s Students
- International students who gained their university entrance qualification outside Germany can apply before starting their Master’s program or during the first semester.
- Applicants should provide proof of their initial professional qualification.
- Proficiency in the German language at Level B2 or DSH 2 (with certification) is required.
PhD Students:
- International doctoral students must demonstrate proof of admission to doctoral studies at a state or state-recognized university.
- Preliminary work should be completed by the application date, and a valid timetable for completion must be submitted.
- Priority is given to PhD subjects related to the Foundation’s areas of focus.
- Proficiency in the German language at Level B2 or DSH 2 (with certification) is required.
Application Process:
For detailed application requirements and procedures, please refer to the information sheet A 1-1 (“scholarship application for undergraduate and graduate students”) or A 2-1 (“scholarship application for doctoral studies”). The online application portal closes on 1 March or 1 September (for PhD studies only).
For comprehensive information on how to apply for this scholarship, visit the official website Scholarship Department – Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung.
4.DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Scholarships 2024-25 for Public Policy and Good Governance
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Masters Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance. This initiative provides outstanding graduates from developing nations with the opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree in fields crucial to the social, political, and economic advancement of their home countries at prestigious German higher education institutions.
Programs at Leading German Universities
These scholarships support carefully selected Master’s courses offered by reputable German institutions, including:
- Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg: Social Protection
- University of Duisburg-Essen: Development and Governance
- Willy Brandt School of Public Policy at the University of Erfurt: Public Policy
- Universität Magdeburg: Peace and Conflict Studies
- Hochschule Osnabrück: Management in Non-Profit Organizations
- Universität Passau: Development Studies
- University of Passau: Governance and Public Policy
These programs have an international focus and are taught in both German and English.
Who Can Apply?
This scholarship opportunity is available to candidates from various regions, including Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Pacific, Western, Central, South-Eastern Europe, Eastern Europe, Central Asia & South Caucasus, and the Middle East and North Africa. Check the list of eligible countries on the official website.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful DAAD scholarship recipients under the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme enjoy several benefits, including:
- Exemption from tuition fees
- A monthly scholarship of €934
- Contributions to health insurance in Germany
- Travel allowance
- Study and research subsidies
- Rent subsidies and/or allowances for spouses and children (where applicable)
In addition, all scholarship recipients are required to complete a 6-month German language course before beginning their study programs.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, candidates should be graduates from developing countries with a strong first university degree in fields such as social and political sciences, law, economics, public policy, and administration. They should also be committed to actively contributing to the social, political, and economic development of their home countries/regions and have relevant practical experience.
Specific language requirements and certificates may vary based on the chosen Master’s course. Each course has its own selection criteria in addition to DAAD’s requirements.
How to Apply
To apply for the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Programme (Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance), you must submit your applications directly to the universities offering the selected Master’s courses. The application period at all 8 universities will be from June 1 to July 31, 2023.
Status: Currently Closed. For comprehensive details on how to apply for this scholarship, including access to the application form, please read the 2024 Announcement Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Master’s Scholarships for … – DAAD 2024 Announcement and visit the official scholarship website
to be updated on when the application process begins in 2024 at Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy …
Conclusion:
In conclusion, these 4 scholarships for women in Africa hold the potential to be life-changing opportunities, empowering women across the continent to access quality education and chase their dreams. Each scholarship offers unique avenues for academic and professional growth. Don’t let financial barriers hinder your aspirations; with the information provided in this article, you have the tools to pursue your educational journey and make a lasting impact. Seize these opportunities and become a catalyst for positive change in Africa and beyond. The path to a brighter future starts here.
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