SOAS University of London Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship 2026 in the UK

The SOAS University of London Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship 2026 is now open for international students who wish to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the United Kingdom. This prestigious fully funded scholarship supports outstanding students with strong academic records and leadership potential, particularly those committed to advancing governance, public policy, and sustainable development across Africa.

Funded by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, the scholarship covers full tuition fees and provides a generous living allowance, allowing scholars to focus entirely on their studies at one of the UK’s leading universities for African, Asian, and Middle Eastern studies.

Scholarship Summary

Degree Level

The scholarship is available for students enrolling in eligible one-year taught Master’s degree programmes at SOAS University of London.

Eligible Study Areas

Students applying for eligible master’s programmes may study subjects including:

• International Development
• Public Policy
• Governance
• Economics
• Law
• Social Sciences
• African Studies
• Political Science
• International Relations
• Regional Studies

Applicants should confirm that their chosen programme qualifies before submitting their scholarship application.

Scholarship Benefits

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship offers comprehensive financial support to selected students, including:

• Funding worth up to £45,479
• Full tuition fee coverage
• Maintenance stipend for living expenses in London
• Opportunity to study at a globally recognized university
• Access to leading academic and research resources
• Networking opportunities with international experts and policymakers
• Enhanced career opportunities in leadership, governance, and public service

Please note that pre-sessional English language courses are not covered under this scholarship.

Eligible Nationalities

The scholarship welcomes applications from international students worldwide.

However, preference is given to applicants who are ordinarily resident in African countries and who demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting Africa’s social, economic, and political development.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the SOAS University of London Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship, applicants must:

• Be classified as an overseas fee-paying student.
• Apply for an eligible full-time one-year taught master’s programme at SOAS.
• Hold a qualification equivalent to a UK Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1) degree or higher.
• Receive an unconditional offer of admission before the scholarship selection process.
• Demonstrate outstanding academic achievement.
• Show leadership potential and a commitment to governance, development, or public policy related to Africa.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:

• Completed admission application to SOAS
• Academic transcripts
• Degree certificates
• Personal statement
• Curriculum Vitae (if required)
• Valid passport copy
• Supporting documents requested by SOAS
• English language proficiency documents (if applicable)

Applicants are encouraged to prepare their personal statements independently, as the university discourages the use of generative AI for scholarship essays.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to apply for the scholarship:

1. Apply for admission to an eligible master’s programme at SOAS University of London.
2. Receive login details for the scholarship application portal after submitting your admission application.
3. Complete the online scholarship application form.
4. Upload all required supporting documents.
5. Secure an unconditional offer of admission before the scholarship selection process begins.
6. Submit your application before the deadline and wait for the final selection results.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early, as admission decisions may take several weeks.

Why Choose the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship?

The SOAS University of London Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship is more than a financial award. It is an opportunity to develop advanced knowledge and leadership skills at one of the world’s leading institutions for international studies.

Scholars benefit from high-quality education, global networking opportunities, and exposure to experts in governance, public policy, and sustainable development. Graduates are well positioned to contribute to meaningful change across Africa and build successful careers in government, international organizations, research, and the nonprofit sector.

Application Deadline

The deadline to apply for the SOAS University of London Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship 2026 is 17 June 2026 at 12:00 PM (UK Time). Applicants should complete both the university admission and scholarship application before the closing date.