The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship For African Students At the University of Birmingham is now open/ongoing. This prestigious award offers a two-year programme, comprising a full one-year MSc programme followed by an integrated one-year internship designed for emerging African leaders.
Scholarship Overview
| Host | Mo Ibrahim Foundation |
| Institution | University of Birmingham, UK |
| Study Location | Study in UK |
| Eligible Countries | All African Countries |
| Scholarship Category | Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships |
| Reward | Full Scholarship | £19,104 Annual Stipend | Airfare | Internship |
| Application Closing Date | 23rd April, 2026 |
| Application Portal Link | https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government/departments/international-development/courses/mo-ibrahim |
This scholarship bridges the gap between academic theory and practical policy, providing young professionals with the platform to work directly on research with leading academics and the Mo Ibrahim Foundation team in London.
Benefits of Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship 2026
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship is a comprehensive funding package that covers:
- 100% coverage of all academic fees for the MSc programme.
- A living allowance of £1,592 per month for the first 18 months.
- A one-time settling allowance of £1,082 upon arrival in the UK.
- Coverage for round-trip airfare and UK visa application costs.
- The final six months of the internship are funded directly by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation.
Related Scholarship Opportunities:
- Japan Government MEXT Scholarship 2027
- McNeese State University Scholarship 2026
- Islamic University of Madinah Scholarship 2026
- Japan Government MEXT Teacher Training Scholarship 2026
The Two-Year Programme Structure
- Year 1 (MSc Programme): Candidates complete a full Master of Science degree focusing on International Development, Governance, and State-building.
- Year 2 (Integrated Internship): First 6 Months; Conducting intensive research alongside academics at the University of Birmingham.
- Last 6 Months: Working with the Mo Ibrahim Foundation in London on various high-level initiatives.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for this elite leadership scholarship, you must:
- Be an African national domiciled (or a permanent resident) in an African country. Preference is given to those in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Hold a First Class Honours degree or its equivalent from an approved university.
- Be under 30 years of age at the time of your application.
- Demonstrate a high command of written and spoken English (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent).
Required Documents
Ensure you have the following materials ready for your online application:
- Academic Transcripts & Certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- 500-Word Statement
- Language Evidence: Valid IELTS or TOEFL scores if English is not your first language.
How to Apply for Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship 2026
- Go to the application page by clicking on the button below.
- Submit your application through the university’s online system.
- Upload your CV and your 500-word scholarship statement to your student profile.
- Once you have submitted your application, you must email your Application ID number to Debra Beard.
- You must use ‘Mo Ibrahim Scholarship’ as your email subject line. Do not attach any documents to this specific email.
Important Information: Since the deadline is April 23, 2026, it is important to complete the university admission process immediately to receive your Application ID.
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