The Mo Ibrahim Foundation in partnership with the University of Birmingham invites applications for the 2026 Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship for African students.
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded two-year programme covering a one-year MSc degree and a one-year integrated internship, including tuition, airfare, visa, and generous living allowances in the United Kingdom.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: United Kingdom (UK)
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All African Countries
- Reward: Full Scholarship | £19,104 Stipend per year | Airfare | Internship
- Deadline: April 24, 2026
Scholarship Details
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship at the University of Birmingham is designed to support and develop future African leaders by combining academic study with practical policy experience. The programme spans two years, beginning with a full-time MSc programme followed by an integrated internship. Scholars will spend six months conducting research with academic experts and another six months working directly with the Mo Ibrahim Foundation team in London, contributing to key initiatives focused on governance and development in Africa.
The programme bridges theory and real-world policy application, creating a platform for emerging leaders to engage with global development challenges while building impactful careers.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship, applicants must:
- Hold a First Class Honours degree or equivalent from a recognized institution
- Have a background in relevant fields such as:
- Social Policy
- Sociology
- Criminology
- Cultural Studies
- Politics
- International Relations
- Human Geography
- Development Studies
- Diplomacy
- Environmental Studies
- Psychology
- Public Administration
- Anthropology
- Urban and Regional Planning
- Community/Rural Development
- Education
- Be under 30 years old at the time of application
- Demonstrate strong English proficiency (minimum IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL equivalent where applicable)
- Be an African national residing in an African country (preference for Sub-Saharan Africa applicants)
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Round-trip airfare and visa costs
- Monthly stipend of £1,592 (approx. £19,104 annually)
- Arrival allowance of £1,082
- Funding for the internship year by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation
- Opportunity to gain hands-on experience through a structured internship
Eligible Courses
The programme includes the following compulsory modules:
- International Development (20 credits)
- Development Policy and Politics (20 credits)
- Dissertation (60 credits)
Students will also:
- Choose one from:
- Governance and State-building (20 credits)
- Democracy, Dictatorship and Development (20 credits)
- Select optional modules (60 credits) from the School of Government or other approved departments
Required Documents
To apply for this scholarship, applicants must prepare:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A 500-word personal statement explaining why you are the best candidate
How to Apply
To apply for the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship 2026:
- Visit the official application portal via the University of Birmingham
- Submit your application through the online system before the deadline
- After applying, send your application ID via email to the programme contact (Debra Beard)
- Use the subject line: “Mo Ibrahim Scholarship”
- Do not attach supporting documents in this email
To begin your application, click HERE
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