Education is the pillar of growth and development, and scholarships are a beacon of hope for many students who lack the financial means to further their studies. A number of these are open to Kenyan students, offering them the opportunity to realize their dreams in various fields. This blog post details the top 5 fully funded Kenya scholarships.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Table of Contents
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a beacon of hope for financially strained yet academically gifted Kenyan youths. This collaborative initiative with top-tier global institutions offers scholars a comprehensive package covering tuition, accommodation, books, and other learning necessities.
Eligibility:
- Open to talented and academically promising youth from Sub-Saharan Africa with demonstrated financial need and a commitment to giving back to their communities.
- Specific eligibility criteria may vary depending on the partner university or NGO.
Benefits:
- Full tuition and living expenses coverage for your chosen program.
- Comprehensive academic and personal development support through mentoring, workshops, and leadership training.
- Access to internship and networking opportunities to build your professional skills and connections.
- Career guidance and support to help you achieve your post-graduation goals.
- The opportunity to connect with a network of like-minded peers and future leaders.
Applying:
- You must apply through the university or NGO of your choice that partners with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
- Each partner has its own application process and deadlines, so be sure to research and contact them directly for specific requirements.
The end goal? To nurture future leaders equipped with the knowledge and the heart to drive impactful change in their communities.
DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Program
Open your world to global opportunities with the DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Program! This program, initiated by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), creates avenues for Sub-Saharan African scholars, including Kenyans, to pursue master’s and PhD degrees at universities within their own country or in neighboring nations.
Eligibility:
- Open to graduates and postgraduates from Sub-Saharan Africa with a first academic degree if applying for a Master’s program, or with a Master’s degree if applying for a doctoral program.
- Applicants must be citizens of a Sub-Saharan African country and intend to return to their home country or another Sub-Saharan African country after completing their studies.
- Strong academic record and demonstrated potential for success in postgraduate studies are required.
- Commitment to contributing to the development of your home country or region is also important.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees for your chosen postgraduate program at a DAAD partner university in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Monthly stipend to cover living expenses.
- Travel allowance (if applicable).
- Research grant (for PhD students).
- Health insurance.
- Pre-departure seminar and reintegration support.
It’s not just about funding your education, it’s about fueling your passion and empowering you to shape the future.
Equity Leaders Program (ELP)
A partnership between the Equity Group Foundation and the Mastercard Foundation gives rise to the Equity Leaders Program (ELP). This remarkable scholarship opportunity extends to promising Kenyan scholars who, while financially underprivileged, shine academically.
Global Scholars Program:
- Full or partial scholarships for undergraduate or postgraduate studies at prestigious universities around the world, including Ivy League institutions.
- Access to global networks and learning opportunities beyond Kenya.
- Support for career development and future leadership roles.
Application Process:
- The application process varies depending on the program component you’re interested in.
- For the internship program, applications typically open after national exam results are released.
- For the Global Scholars Program, selection occurs within the ELP community, taking into account internship performance and additional assessments.
- Check the Equity Leaders Program website or contact the Equity Group Foundation for specific application dates and requirements: https://www.equityleadersprogram.com/: https://www.equityleadersprogram.com/
Through the ELP, scholars don’t merely earn a degree – they undergo a transformative journey that cultivates their leadership capabilities and nurtures their potential to enact change. The program’s goal is to help scholars to not only better their own lives, but also to be catalysts of positive change in their societies. In true accordance with its motto, the ELP truly is about “transforming lives and societies.”
Read Also: Fully Funded Iraq Scholarships
The Jomo Kenyatta Foundation Scholarship
For over 40 years, the Jomo Kenyatta Foundation, a charitable organization rooted in Kenya, has been a beacon of hope for academically gifted students who grapple with financial constraints.
Eligibility:
- Open to Kenyan students who:
- Are orphans or come from poor, vulnerable backgrounds.
- Have attained a minimum of 280 marks in the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examination.
- Demonstrate academic excellence and potential for success in secondary school.
- Have a strong commitment to community service.
Benefits:
- Financial support: Covers the full cost of secondary school education, including tuition, uniforms, and living expenses.
- Mentorship and guidance: Provides access to mentors and advisors who offer support and guidance throughout the program.
- Skills development: Offers workshops and training programs to help students develop valuable skills for their future education and careers.
- Network opportunities: Connects students with a network of alumni and professionals who can provide support and guidance.
- Empowerment: Enables students from disadvantaged backgrounds to access quality education and improve their future prospects.
In doing so, the Jomo Kenyatta Foundation clears the path for these scholars to reach their full potential and excel in their education.
The Rockefeller Foundation Scholarship
Renowned for its philanthropic endeavors, the Foundation encourages Kenyan students to make their mark in fields that mirror its initiatives. Think health, agriculture, or social sciences – if these areas pique your interest, this scholarship is for you.
Eligibility:
- Open to Kenyan students who:
- Are orphans or come from poor, vulnerable backgrounds.
- Have attained a minimum of 280 marks in the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examination.
- Demonstrate academic excellence and potential for success in secondary school.
- Have a strong commitment to community service.
Benefits:
- Financial support: Covers the full cost of secondary school education, including tuition, uniforms, and living expenses.
- Mentorship and guidance: Provides access to mentors and advisors who offer support and guidance throughout the program.
- Skills development: Offers workshops and training programs to help students develop valuable skills for their future education and careers.
- Network opportunities: Connects students with a network of alumni and professionals who can provide support and guidance.
- Empowerment: Enables students from disadvantaged backgrounds to access quality education and improve their future prospects.
The Rockefeller Foundation Scholarship is more than just a fully-funded opportunity, it’s your chance to be part of something bigger, something that goes beyond you and extends to the well-being of humanity.
Read Also: Fully Funded Indonesia Scholarships
FAQS
Which scholarship is available now in Kenya?
Several scholarships are currently available in Kenya, with deadlines or application periods throughout the year. Here are some options to explore:
- Jomo Kenyatta Foundation Scholarship: Supports orphans and students from disadvantaged backgrounds for secondary education (applications typically accepted February-March).
- Equity Leaders Program: Combines internships at Equity Bank with potential scholarships for undergraduate/postgraduate studies globally (application process varies).
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: Offers comprehensive support for talented Sub-Saharan Africans to pursue secondary or tertiary education (country-specific partner universities manage applications).
- DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Program: Supports postgraduate studies within Sub-Saharan Africa for graduates and postgraduates (deadlines vary by country and program).
- Kenyan Government Scholarship for International Students: Offers full tuition, stipends, and other benefits for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in specific fields (application period likely closed for 2023, check for 2024 updates).
Which country is easiest to get a fully funded scholarship?
Unfortunately, there’s no definitive “easiest” country for securing a fully funded scholarship. Eligibility and competition vary greatly based on individual programs, country policies, and your profile. However, some countries, like Norway, Germany, and Sweden, are known for offering generous scholarships and tuition-free universities, particularly for postgraduate studies.
How can I get a scholarship to study abroad in Kenya?
Several scholarship options support international students wishing to study in Kenya. Here are some starting points:
- KIMEP University International Graduate Scholarships: Covers full tuition fees, stipends, and medical insurance for specific fields like International Journalism (check individual scholarship deadlines).
- Nazarbayev University International Scholarships: Open to international students for various undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs (deadlines vary).
- African Graduate Fellowship Program: Funded by the US Department of State, this program supports postgraduate studies in Africa, including Kenya, for US citizens and permanent residents (applications open March-June).
- Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme: Provides scholarships for postgraduate studies at partner universities, including some in East Africa (application deadlines range between February and May).
How do you get a 100% scholarship?
Securing a full scholarship involves several factors:
- Strong academic credentials: High GPA, excellent test scores, and relevant research experience significantly boost your chances.
- Demonstrated financial need: Financial aid programs often prioritize students with limited resources.
- Compelling application materials: Your essays, letters of recommendation, and personal statement should showcase your unique background, goals, and achievements.
- Meeting specific program requirements: Some scholarships have strict eligibility criteria based on nationality, field of study, or university affiliation.
Which country has the 100% scholarship?
Many countries offer tuition-free or low-cost university options for international students, often for postgraduate studies. Here are some potential destinations:
- Germany: Public universities in Germany generally charge no tuition fees for international students.
- Norway: Most public universities in Norway offer free tuition for all students, including internationals.
- Austria: Public universities in Austria have low tuition fees, with some offering tuition waivers for specific programs.
- Finland: Most universities in Finland are tuition-free for master’s students from EU/EEA countries, with scholarships available for non-EU students.
Remember, research thoroughly and consider factors like program availability, living costs, language barriers, and post-graduation opportunities before choosing a country for free or scholarship-funded studies.
Conclusion
Each of these scholarships, from The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program to The Rockefeller Foundation Scholarship, are more than just financial aid – they are pathways towards knowledge, personal growth, and ultimately, change-makers in society. They provide more than monetary support, they open doors to life-changing experiences, robust mentorship, and opportunities to shape the future.
So, if you are a Kenyan student with dreams bigger than your current means, look no further. These scholarships are not just about getting an education, they are about transforming lives, uplifting communities and making a lasting impact in our world. It’s time to turn your aspirations into action. Let these scholarships be your springboard to success. Remember, you are more than a student, you are the future, and your journey starts here.
