Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarships 2027: How African Students Can Study at Oxford Fully Funded
If studying for a Master’s degree at the University of Oxford has always felt out of reach because of cost, the Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarships change that.
This programme is specifically designed for African graduates who show academic excellence, leadership potential and a genuine commitment to solving problems on the continent. It covers 100% of course fees, a solid living stipend, flights, visa costs and extra support before, during and after your time in Oxford.
Applications for the 2027/28 academic year are open. The key funding deadlines fall in December 2026 and early January 2027 (for many courses, including the Oxford MBA, the deadline is 6 January 2027).
Here’s everything you need to know in clear, practical terms.
What Is the Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarship?
It is a partnership between the University of Oxford, the Mastercard Foundation and the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx). The goal is simple: give talented Africans who have overcome significant challenges the chance to gain a world-class education and then return home to create impact.
The scholarship supports full-time one-year taught Master’s courses and the Oxford MBA. It also places special emphasis on under-represented groups — including female scholars, people from refugee or displaced backgrounds, and scholars living with disabilities.
What the Scholarship Actually Covers
This is one of the most complete funding packages available:
• Full University of Oxford tuition and college fees
• Annual living stipend of at least £21,805 (tax-free)
• Economy return airfare from your home country to the UK
• Full UK Student Visa fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
• Settling-in allowance when you arrive in Oxford
• Access to a Thrive Fund for unexpected emergencies
• Leadership training, networking events and academic support
• Post-graduation Ubuntu Period of Service (a 4–6 month placement with an organisation in Africa)
You focus on studying and growing. The financial side is taken care of.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria
To be considered you must:
1. Be a citizen of an African country and ordinarily resident in Africa (flexibility is given for applicants with refugee or displaced backgrounds).
2. Not already hold a Master’s degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification.
3. Meet the academic entry requirements of your chosen Oxford course (usually a strong First Class or high Upper Second Class / 2:1 equivalent degree).
4. Show clear evidence of leadership, community service and a plan to contribute to Africa’s development after your studies.
5. Align with AfOx values: Collegiality, Empathy, Commitment, Transparency and Inclusivity.
The programme actively encourages applications from women, refugees and displaced people, and scholars with disabilities.
Key Dates for 2027 Entry
• Applications are currently open through the University of Oxford graduate admissions portal.
• Main funding deadlines: December 2026 or early January 2027 (check your specific course). For the Oxford MBA the deadline is 6 January 2027.
• Shortlisting and online interviews: February to April 2027.
• Final scholarship offers: usually by June or July 2027.
• Start of studies in Oxford: September / October 2027.
Always confirm the exact deadline for your chosen course on the official Oxford Graduate Admissions website.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
There is no separate scholarship application form at the beginning. Everything starts with your normal Oxford graduate application.
1. Choose your course on the University of Oxford Graduate Admissions website.
2. Check the specific funding deadline for that course (December or January).
3. Submit a complete application for admission (including transcripts, statement, references and any required tests) by the funding deadline.
4. Clearly indicate your African citizenship and country of residence on the form. If you have a refugee or displaced background, select the relevant option.
5. If you receive a conditional offer and meet the basic eligibility criteria, the University’s Student Fees & Funding team will contact you by email. You will then complete an AfOx questionnaire and may be invited to a virtual interview.
Official application links:
• University of Oxford Graduate Admissions portal (start here): https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate
• Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx) Mastercard Foundation page (full programme details): https://www.afox.ox.ac.uk/education/mastercard-foundation-scholars-program-at-the-university-of-oxford
• Saïd Business School AfOx page (for MBA applicants): https://www.sbs.ox.ac.uk/oxford-experience/scholarships-and-funding/afox-graduate-scholarships
Submit your application and all documents at least one week before the deadline. Technical problems on the final day are common.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Show real impact, not just ambition
Talk about specific projects, research or community work you have done and how they address challenges in your country or region (health, climate, education, youth employment, governance, etc.).
Make your statement personal and focused
Explain exactly why the particular Oxford course, its modules and its academic environment are the right next step for the work you want to do in Africa.
Choose referees who know you well
Ask people who can speak in detail about your academic ability, leadership and character. Give them plenty of time.
Submit early
Aim to finish everything 7–10 days before the deadline so you can fix any issues calmly.
Final Encouragement
The Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarship is one of the strongest fully funded routes for African students who want to study at Oxford. It is competitive, but every year a new group of scholars from across the continent is selected because they told their stories clearly and showed real potential for impact.
If you meet the criteria and have a clear vision for how you will use an Oxford education to contribute at home, start preparing your application materials now.
Are you applying this cycle? Which course are you targeting? Share in the comments or pass this guide to someone who should apply.
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