AfOx 2026 Graduate Scholarship (MBA, University of Oxford): Fully Funded Opportunity for African Leaders

AfOx 2026 Graduate Scholarship (MBA, University of Oxford): Fully Funded Opportunity for African Leaders

Big news for ambitious African professionals: the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx), in partnership with the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School, is offering five fully funded AfOx Graduate Scholarships for the 2026–2027 MBA programme. Each award covers full course fees plus a living-costs grant (at least £20,780). No separate scholarship form is required—simply submit a strong Oxford MBA application before the deadline.

For updates and curated scholarship alerts, bookmark Wikihii (SA Jobs & Scholarships) and follow our WhatsApp channel Jobs connect ZA.

Why this scholarship matters (Opportunities)

• Top-tier MBA, zero tuition: study at Oxford’s globally ranked business school with fees fully covered.
• Leadership impact in Africa: AfOx supports candidates committed to accelerating Africa’s development across sectors—business, tech, public policy, health, energy, and more.
• Financial breathing room: a generous living stipend (minimum £20,780) helps you focus on academics, career networking, and venture building.
• Powerful network: connect with Oxford Saïd’s alumni, AfOx fellows, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars community, and Africa-focused partners.

Eligibility (Who should apply?)

• Citizenship & residency: open to African citizens ordinarily resident in Africa.
• Commitment to Africa: demonstrate a clear track record and future plan to create impact on the continent.
• MBA readiness: meet Oxford MBA entry requirements (academic background, professional experience, and a compelling application).

Key dates

• Scholarship deadline (via MBA application): 7 January 2026.
• Oxford MBA 2025/26 stages: final main-stage MBA deadline also falls on 7 January 2026 (with a later March stage for some applicants).

How to apply (No separate scholarship form)

1. Choose the Oxford MBA and prepare your application (CV, essays, references, test scores if applicable).
2. Submit your MBA application by 7 January 2026. You’re automatically considered for AfOx Graduate Scholarships—no extra form.
3. Interview & decisions: if shortlisted, Oxford will contact you for interviews. Scholarship selection runs alongside MBA admissions.

Tip: For step-by-step guidance and local reminders, check our AfOx MBA scholarship updates on Wikihii and follow Jobs connect ZA.

What to expect if selected

• Funding package: full tuition, living-costs grant (at least £20,780), and programme support.
• Tailored leadership development: AfOx/Mastercard Foundation programming, mentorship, and networking before, during, and after your MBA.
• Oxford platform: access to venture labs, impact accelerators, Africa-focused centres, and recruiters.

Common challenges (and how to overcome them)

• Coherence: your essays, CV, and referees must tell one story—clear Africa impact goals + why the Oxford MBA is essential now.
• Quantifiable leadership: show measurable outcomes (teams led, budgets managed, ventures grown, policies changed, communities reached).
• Time management: don’t rush Stage 4—start drafting essays and lining up referees weeks before the deadline.
• Financial planning: the stipend is generous but plan for UK arrival, deposits, and any family travel or dependants.

Tips for a standout application

• Prioritise Africa impact: anchor your career vision in a concrete problem (e.g., climate finance for SADC SMEs, digital health supply chains, township retail formalisation) and show how Oxford’s ecosystem advances it.
• Results over responsibilities: quantify achievements; include failures and what you learned.
• Referees who know your impact: choose people who can speak to leadership, integrity, and continent-focused outcomes.
• Coursework fit: reference Oxford Saïd electives, labs, and centres that directly support your mission.

Also consider (related funding)

UNHCR Refugee-led Innovation Fund 2025: grants and tailored support for refugee-led organisations building solutions in their communities. Ideal for impact founders who may later pursue an MBA. Learn more & apply.

Useful official links

• AfOx Graduate Scholarships (Oxford Saïd official)
• Oxford MBA – How to Apply (deadlines & requirements)
• Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx) – Education

Conclusion

The AfOx Graduate Scholarship for the Oxford MBA is a rare, fully funded pathway for African changemakers ready to scale impact. If you meet the criteria and can articulate a strong Africa-focused vision, apply by 7 January 2026 and put your best story forward. Don’t miss our instant alerts on Jobs connect ZA and keep an eye on Wikihii for more fully funded opportunities.