Fully-funded Learn Africa Postgraduate Scholarship Programme 2025-2026
Across Africa, countless women dream of advancing their education, leading groundbreaking research, and shaping the future of their communities. Yet, for many, financial and systemic barriers stand in the way. The Learn Africa Postgraduate Scholarship Programme, a Women for Africa Foundation initiative, is changing that narrative. For over 13 years, this transformative program has empowered 403 African women from 36 countries through 445 scholarships, fostering their growth as scholars, leaders, and change-makers. As applications open for the 2025-2026 academic year, this is your chance to join a legacy of excellence and make your mark on the world.
Programme Overview
The Learn Africa Postgraduate Scholarship Programme is dedicated to advancing African women in academia and research, equipping them for leadership roles across diverse sectors. With a strong emphasis on doctoral studies, this year’s edition offers a record five PhD scholarships among 68 new scholarships and 25 renewals, supporting the development of female talent in critical academic fields.
The program provides unparalleled opportunities for African women to excel through partnerships with esteemed institutions such as Universidad Alfonso X el Sabio, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), and companies like GMV Innovating Solutions. This year introduces new study areas aligned with global challenges, including veterinary science, computational intelligence, the Internet of Things, regenerative biology, and applied psychology research. Notably, 36% of scholarships are offered in English or bilingual English-Spanish formats, making the program accessible to women from a broader range of African countries.
The program also promotes cultural and linguistic exchange, with many scholarships available in in-person or blended formats. Recipients can study in Spain, gaining international exposure and immersion in diverse educational systems.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a Learn Africa scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Gender and Residence: Applicants must be women of African nationality and have resided in an African country.
- Academic Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree from an African university is required for postgraduate scholarships. Specific degree requirements may vary depending on the scholarship applied for.
- Language Proficiency: A high level of proficiency in the language of instruction (English or Spanish) is required. Applicants must provide an official language certificate or undergo an interview with the university to verify language skills.
- Technical and Academic Requirements: Applicants should meet the academic prerequisites for each scholarship and have the necessary technical setup for online scholarships, including a computer and reliable internet access.
Application Process
The application process is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. Applicants should follow these steps:
- Prepare Required Documents: Gather a passport or national identity document, CV, academic records, motivation letter, reference letters, and any additional documents specific to the scholarship.
- Submit the Application: Applications must be submitted via the official Learn Africa scholarship portal by May 8, 2025 (Madrid time).
- Review Scholarship Options: The portal lists various scholarship options. Applicants should carefully read each scholarship’s description and select the one that best aligns with their academic goals.
- Application Submission: Once documents are prepared, applicants must log in, complete the application form, and submit it through the portal.
Scholarship Coverage
The scholarships are divided into two categories:
- Online Scholarships: These cover only tuition fees.
- In-person Scholarships: These cover tuition fees, round-trip travel, accommodation, meals, and health insurance. However, specific scholarships, such as PLANETA, cover only tuition fees.
Uncovered Expenses: Applicants should note that the scholarship does not cover travel, visa-related costs, personal living expenses, or specific administrative fees. Candidates must ensure they have sufficient funds to cover these additional costs.
Selection Process
Applications are evaluated by a specialized committee based on the following criteria:
- CV: The applicant’s academic and professional background.
- Reference Letter(s): Recommendations from academic or professional references.
- Motivation Letter: An explanation of the applicant’s goals and reasons for applying.
- Language Skills: Proficiency in the language of instruction.
- Project/Concept Note: If required, applicants must submit a proposal outlining their research or study plans.
The final selection is made in consultation with partner universities, and results will be published on the Women for Africa Foundation’s website by June 2025. Selected candidates will be notified by email and must accept the scholarship offer within seven working days. Failure to take action within this timeframe will result in the scholarship being reassigned to another applicant.
Key Considerations
- One Application per Person: Applicants can submit only one application. It is crucial to choose the scholarship carefully, as changes after submission are not permitted.
- Required Documentation: All documents must be prepared in advance. For in-person scholarships, applicants should ensure their passport is valid for over six months.
- Language Skills: Applicants must verify their language proficiency and ensure they meet the requirements for the scholarship they are applying for.
- Accepting the Scholarship: If selected, applicants must accept the scholarship offer within seven days. Failure to do so may lead to the scholarship being reallocated.
- Expenses Not Covered: The scholarship recipient is responsible for visa fees, document translation, and personal expenses.
Call to Action
The Learn Africa Scholarship Programme offers a unique opportunity for African women to pursue postgraduate education, particularly in fields critical to addressing global challenges. The program strengthens women’s roles in development processes across the continent by supporting women’s academic advancement.
Applicants are encouraged to thoroughly review the scholarship details and ensure they meet all requirements before submitting their applications. The deadline is May 8, 2025. Mark your calendar and start preparing now.
Your Future Awaits
The Learn Africa Scholarship Programme is more than an academic pursuit; it’s a gateway to rewriting African women’s and their communities’ future. By seizing this opportunity, you’re not just earning a degree but joining a network of trailblazers reshaping Africa’s role in the global landscape. Visit the Learn Africa scholarship portal today, take the first step, and let your ambitions soar. The world is waiting for your brilliance.
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