The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship offers an outstanding opportunity for African students who are passionate about leadership, governance, and development. Sponsored by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation and hosted at SOAS University of London, this prestigious scholarship is designed to support future African leaders pursuing postgraduate education in the United Kingdom.
The scholarship provides financial assistance for eligible students enrolling in a full-time one-year master’s degree program beginning in the 2026/2027 academic session. Successful candidates will receive support covering tuition fees as well as a maintenance stipend, helping them focus fully on their academic and leadership goals.
With only two awards available, the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship is highly competitive and seeks exceptional students committed to making a positive impact across Africa.
About the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship
The scholarship was established by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting strong leadership and good governance throughout Africa. Founded by Mo Ibrahim, the foundation continues to invest in initiatives that encourage sustainable development and effective governance across the continent.
The scholarship program aims to nurture talented African students who demonstrate academic excellence and a genuine interest in governance, public policy, development, and social progress in Africa.
For the 2026/2027 academic year, two scholarships will be awarded, each valued at £45,479.
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Scholarship Benefits
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support for selected students.
Benefits include:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Maintenance stipend for living expenses
- Opportunity to study in the United Kingdom
- Access to world-class education at SOAS University of London
- Exposure to global academic and leadership networks
The tuition fees will first be deducted from the scholarship amount, while the remaining balance will be paid directly to the student as financial support for accommodation, feeding, transportation, and other living costs.
Eligible Programs
The scholarship is available for students applying to any eligible full-time one-year taught master’s degree program at SOAS beginning in the 2026/2027 academic session.
Applicants are encouraged to select programs related to governance, development, politics, economics, social sciences, international relations, or other fields connected to Africa’s growth and transformation.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship 2026/2027, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be a new student starting studies in September 2026
- Hold overseas fee status
- Possess at least a 2:1 bachelor’s degree or an equivalent international qualification
- Receive an unconditional offer from SOAS before the scholarship selection panel meets
- Apply for a full-time one-year taught master’s program
Preference will be given to candidates who:
- Are ordinarily resident in Africa
- Show a strong interest in African governance and development
- Demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to positive change
The scholarship does not provide funding for pre-sessional courses or English language preparation programs.
How to Apply
The application process involves two major steps.
Step 1: Apply for Admission
Interested candidates must first apply for admission into an eligible master’s degree program at SOAS University of London.
Applicants are advised to submit their admission applications early because the university may take several weeks to process applications, especially during busy periods.
Step 2: Apply for the Scholarship
After applying for admission, candidates can proceed to apply for the scholarship through the SOAS admissions portal.
The scholarship application deadline is:
17 June 2026 at 12 noon UK local time
Applicants must complete and submit all required information before the deadline, as late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed by a scholarship selection panel based on:
- Academic excellence
- Personal statement quality
- Leadership potential
- Commitment to African development
- Interest in governance and public policy
The selection committee will carefully review both the admissions application and scholarship materials when evaluating candidates.
Applicants are also advised not to use generative artificial intelligence tools to write their scholarship statements. However, AI tools may be used for grammar checks or structural planning.
Notification of Results
The scholarship selection process is expected to conclude by mid-July 2026.
Successful applicants will be contacted first. Once all awards have been allocated, unsuccessful candidates will also receive notification.
Because the scholarship is highly competitive, applicants are encouraged to prepare strong academic and personal statements that clearly explain their goals and passion for Africa’s development.
Why Study at SOAS?
SOAS University of London is internationally recognized for its expertise in African studies, politics, development studies, law, economics, and international relations.
Students at SOAS benefit from:
- A diverse international learning environment
- Access to leading scholars and researchers
- Strong focus on Africa, Asia, and the Middle East
- Networking opportunities with global professionals and policymakers
For students interested in governance and development in Africa, SOAS offers an ideal academic environment to build knowledge and leadership skills.
Why the Scholarship Matters
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship is more than financial support. It is an investment in the next generation of African leaders.
By supporting talented students committed to governance and development, the scholarship helps prepare future policymakers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and social leaders who can contribute meaningfully to Africa’s progress.
For ambitious African students seeking a world-class postgraduate education and the opportunity to create long-term impact, this scholarship presents an excellent pathway toward achieving those goals.
For more information, visit the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship.
