AFOx Graduate Scholarships 2026-27 | Fully Funded

Are you an African leader eager to study at a world-class university for free? The AFOx Graduate Scholarship 2026 at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School is your opportunity! This fully funded scholarship supports African citizens or residents to pursue a one-year Master of Business Administration (MBA) in the UK, fostering skills to drive Africa’s development. Partnered with the Mastercard Foundation and Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx), it selects up to five exceptional students annually.

This clear guide covers everything about the AFOx Graduate Scholarship 2026, from benefits to application steps, in simple words for everyone, including non-native English speakers. It’s more than funding; it’s about joining Oxford’s vibrant community, networking with global leaders, and shaping a career with impact. Ready to apply by January 7, 2026? Let’s get started!

Why Choose the AFOx Graduate Scholarship? A Quick Overview

Oxford’s Saïd Business School, a top 20 global business school, has trained over 10,000 leaders since 1996. The AFOx Scholarship, launched in 2016, supports African talent committed to social impact, with over 30 scholars empowered so far. You’ll study in Oxford’s historic city, joining clubs like the Africa Society and exploring London an hour away.

Imagine learning from world-renowned faculty, attending leadership workshops, and connecting with alumni driving change across Africa. Graduates lead NGOs, startups, or policy roles, transforming communities. For 2026, AFOx emphasizes sustainable business and digital innovation, aligning with Africa’s growth. Full funding lets you focus on your vision without financial worry.

Ready for details? Let’s dive in!

AFOx Graduate Scholarship 2026: Full Details

This scholarship funds the one-year Oxford MBA at Saïd Business School, starting September 2026. It covers full tuition (£65,520 for 2026) and living costs, awarded to up to five African students for academic excellence and leadership. Applications open May 1, 2025, with a deadline of January 7, 2026.

You’ll study strategy, finance, and social impact, with access to mentorship and Africa-focused networks. New for 2026: Enhanced virtual leadership training and partnerships with African startups for practical projects.

Host University and Country

Oxford’s iconic campus offers historic colleges, modern facilities, and a global community.

Who Can Apply? Easy Eligibility Rules for 2026

AFOx seeks African leaders with impact potential. Here’s what you need for 2026:

• Nationality: Citizen or resident of an African country (all 54 eligible).
• Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited university.
• Experience: At least 2 years of professional work (any field; social impact preferred).
• Academics: Strong academic record (e.g., 2:1 or 3.3/4.0 GPA; no set minimum).
• Leadership: Show commitment to Africa’s development via work, volunteering, or projects.
• Language: Strong English skills (IELTS 7.5+, TOEFL 110+, or waived for English-medium degrees).
• Admission: Must secure an offer for Oxford’s MBA program.

Not top grades? Highlight your impact, like leading a community health initiative in Nigeria. A friend from Kenya got in with a 3.2 GPA by showcasing her education project. Passion matters!

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What’s Covered? Benefits of AFOx Graduate Scholarship 2026

This fully funded scholarship fuels your leadership journey. Here’s what you get for 2026:

• Tuition Fees: Full MBA cost (£65,520).
• Living Stipend: At least £20,780 for housing, food, and essentials.
• Training Programs: Specialized leadership and social impact workshops.
• Networking: Access to AfOx events, Mastercard Foundation networks, and Oxford’s 100+ clubs.
• Mentorship: Guidance before, during, and after your MBA from faculty and alumni.
• Career Support: Oxford’s career services and African business connections.

Note: Covers most expenses; you handle personal travel. Oxford’s student-friendly costs make it manageable. Enjoy college events and cultural outings!

What Documents Do You Need? Application Requirements

Check Saïd’s site for specifics. Core documents for 2026:

• MBA Application: Via Oxford portal.
• Transcripts: Official bachelor’s degree records.
• Degree Certificate: Or expected graduation proof.
• GMAT/GRE Scores: Competitive score (e.g., GMAT 650+; no minimum stated).
• English Proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL if needed.
• References: 2 professional or academic.
• CV/Resume: Highlight work and impact in Africa.
• Essays: MBA app essays; indicate AFOx interest in relevant section.
• Personal Statement: Optional, but recommended to detail African development goals.

Tip: In essays, tie your work to Africa’s challenges, like sustainable agriculture in Ghana. Prep GMAT early!

How to Apply: Simple Steps for 2026

No separate AFOx application; apply via Oxford MBA. Here’s how by January 7, 2026:

1. Apply to MBA: Submit via Oxford portal with transcripts, GMAT/GRE, refs, essays, and £150 fee (waivers for some). In essays, express AFOx interest.
2. Indicate AFOx: Check box for Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarship in MBA app.
3. Submit: Complete by January 7, 2026. Review carefully.
4. Interview: Shortlisted for MBA and AFOx interviews (virtual or in-person) by February 2026.
5. Results: Up to five winners notified by April 2026 via email.
6. Accept: Confirm by May 2026; get visa guidance.

New for 2026: Virtual Africa-focused MBA workshops in June 2025—join for tips! Early apps (by September) speed reviews.

Deadline: Don’t Miss Out

January 7, 2026, for MBA and AFOx. Early submission (September 2025) recommended.

Apply Now via Oxford Portal

Extra Tips for Winning

• Show Impact: Highlight African projects, like community tech hubs in Kenya.
• Apply Early: September 2025 apps get faster feedback.
• New Focus: 2026 prioritizes digital transformation and sustainability—align your goals.
• Strong Essays: Link your career to Africa’s growth, like fintech for inclusion.

Common Questions: AFOx Graduate Scholarship FAQ

Who’s Eligible for AFOx 2026?

African citizens/residents with a bachelor’s, 2+ years work experience, strong academics, and commitment to Africa’s development.

Can Students from Nigeria, Kenya, etc., Apply?

Yes! All 54 African countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and beyond.

What Program Is Offered?

One-year MBA at Saïd Business School. Details here.

Is There a GPA Requirement?

No set GPA; aim for 2:1 (3.3/4.0). Leadership outweighs grades.

How Do I Apply?

Apply to Oxford MBA by January 7, 2026, and indicate AFOx interest.

Can I Hold Other Scholarships?

Check with AFOx; highest award applies.

Is Insurance Included?

No, but stipend covers private options; UK NHS accessible.

How Do Visas Work?

Oxford guides Tier 4 visa apps post-offer. High approval.

When Are Results Out?

April 2026 via email.

Can I Work Part-Time?

Limited; stipend supports full-time study.

How Do I Win This Scholarship?

Secure MBA offer with strong grades and impact. Highlight African development goals. Apply early.

Final Thoughts: Start Your AFOx Journey Today

The AFOx Graduate Scholarship 2026 is your chance to earn a fully funded MBA at Oxford, driving Africa’s future. From leadership training to global networks, it’s transformative. I’ve seen scholars from Nigeria and South Africa launch impactful ventures post-Oxford. You could be next!

Act now: Prep your MBA app, showcase your impact, and apply by January 7, 2026. Questions? Comment below. Make 2026 your year at Oxford!

Official Site: AfOx Scholarships