Fully Funded Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarships for African Students to Study at Oxford University, UK
In a groundbreaking collaboration, the University of Oxford and the Mastercard Foundation have come together to launch the AfOx Scholarship Programs. These initiatives offer an exceptional opportunity to 400 young African scholars, providing them with fully-funded opportunities to pursue master’s degrees at the University of Oxford. Let’s delve into the details of these scholarships and the opportunities they bring for passionate African youth.
A Scholarship Rooted in Values
The Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarship program is a testament to the values of collegiality, empathy, commitment, inclusion, and community. Designed to support African students in pursuing graduate studies at the University of Oxford, it’s a crucial component of the broader AfOx Graduate Scholars Program.
Program Highlights
The scholarship goes beyond covering course fees and living expenses; it offers scholars a rigorous one-year taught Master’s course at Oxford, equipping them with technical, entrepreneurial, and leadership skills. Importantly, it fosters collaboration, emphasizes life skills, and creates a lifelong network of alumni.
Critical Disciplines
Each scholar benefits from top-tier training in fields vital to addressing global challenges. These encompass food systems, health sciences, sustainable water and energy systems, governance and public policy, and entrepreneurship. These programs align with four AfOx themes relevant to Africa’s Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals: Healthy People, Integrated Societies, Green Futures, and Innovation for Prosperity.
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The Ubuntu Period of Service
A unique feature of the program is the “Ubuntu period of service.” After completing their Master’s degree, scholars are encouraged to design and execute impactful projects within African organizations. These projects can encompass launching startups, working with multinational development agencies, governments, NGOs, or research institutions.
Inclusivity
The scholarships place particular emphasis on underrepresented groups, including female scholars, individuals from refugee and displaced backgrounds, and those with accessibility needs. The 2022 academic year saw a diverse cohort of 20 Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholars studying various disciplines, emerging as African leaders hailing from 13 African countries.
Program Details
- Full-Cost Scholarship: Covering tuition fees and living expenses for international students.
- Logistics Support: Comprising an economy return flight, visa costs, Immigration Health Surcharge fees, settling down allowance, and access to a Thrive Fund for emergencies.
- Academic Rigor: The first year involves a demanding academic Master’s course at Oxford and a Leadership and Impact Program, fostering collaborative leadership skills.
Career Development and Impact
After completing their Master’s program, scholars receive support in securing 4-6 month placements in leading Africa-based organizations during their Ubuntu Period of Service. These initiatives in Africa provide mentoring by leading academics and practitioners, enabling scholars to build impactful careers on the continent.
A Network for Life
Scholars benefit from a customized Leadership and Impact Program in partnership with the Skoll Centre for Social Enterprise, tailored academic and social support throughout their studies, and access to the AfOx Alumni Network. This network provides continued support and collaboration within a community of African Scholars linked to the University of Oxford. Additionally, mentorship and career support are available from AfOx Research and Innovation Fellows and the broader AfOx network of research leaders and entrepreneurs.
How to Apply
To be eligible for this scholarship, submit your application for graduate study to the University of Oxford via the graduate admissions portal. We recommend doing this well in advance of your chosen course’s relevant deadline. The University’s website provides comprehensive information on courses, fees, colleges, and the application process.
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The Mentorship Program
The African Society at Oxford (AfriSoc) runs a mentorship program to support African graduate applicants in submitting competitive applications to the University of Oxford. You can apply to the mentorship program here. Please note that the deadline for the mentorship program is 2 November 2023.
Interview for the AfOx Graduate Scholarship
Eligible candidates who receive a conditional offer from their course will be invited to a virtual interview for the AfOx Graduate Scholarship Program.
Application Deadlines
Most postgraduate courses at the University of Oxford have application deadlines in December or January, with specific dates noted below. However, exact deadlines may vary depending on the course. Prospective students are encouraged to check the specific application deadline for their chosen course well in advance.
Conclusion
The AfOx Scholarship Programs at the University of Oxford are not just scholarships; they are opportunities for passionate African youth to excel academically, develop crucial leadership skills, and make a lasting impact on their communities and the continent. By emphasizing inclusivity, promoting collaboration, and offering comprehensive support, these programs are nurturing the next generation of African leaders who will bring positive change and innovation to a variety of fields. Apply now and embark on your journey to becoming one of Africa’s future leaders.
