Applications are now open for the Mastercard Foundation AfOx Graduate Scholarships 2027-2028 at the University of Oxford. This prestigious fully funded scholarship offers a life-changing opportunity for talented Africans to pursue a one-year MBA at Oxford’s Saïd Business School.
The University of Oxford, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme and the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx), established this innovative partnership to support African nationals who have had to overcome hardship and demonstrate a clear commitment to driving Africa’s development. For the 2027-28 intake, up to three scholarships will be awarded.
If you are an African citizen living in Africa and dreaming of an Oxford MBA without financial burden, this is your chance.
At a Glance: AfOx Graduate Scholarship 2027-2028
Feature Details
Host Institution University of Oxford, Saïd Business School, UK
Programme Oxford MBA (12 months full-time)
Academic Year 2027-2028
Number of Awards Up to 3 scholarships
Coverage Full course fees + living grant of at least £21,805
Eligible Nationality African nationals ordinarily resident in Africa
Application Route No separate scholarship form – Apply for MBA
Deadline 6 January 2027
What Does the AfOx Scholarship Cover? (Scholarship Value)
This is a comprehensive fully funded package, not just tuition. Selected scholars will receive:
1. Full Financial Support:
- 100% of Oxford MBA course fees (covers university and college fees)
- A grant for living costs of at least £21,805 to cover accommodation, food, and daily expenses in Oxford
2. Leadership and Development Support:
- Tailor-made training programmes designed by AfOx to enhance leadership, entrepreneurship, and impact skills
- Exclusive networking opportunities with African leaders, Oxford academics, industry experts, and Mastercard Foundation alumni
- Structured support before you arrive in Oxford (visa guidance, pre-arrival orientation), during your MBA, and after graduation through alumni mentorship and career support
This makes it one of the most generous MBA scholarships in the UK for African students, similar in value to Oxford Pershing Square and Skoll Scholarships.
Who Can Apply? – AfOx Eligibility Criteria 2027
To be eligible for the Mastercard Foundation AfOx Graduate Scholarship, you must meet ALL of the following criteria as stated by Oxford Saïd Business School:
- Be an African National: You must be a citizen of an African country. Dual nationals are eligible if they hold African citizenship.
- Ordinarily Resident in Africa: You must be living in an African country at the time of application. Applicants living in the diaspora are not eligible unless they can prove ordinary residence in Africa.
- No Prior Master’s Degree: You must not have already completed a Master’s degree. Candidates with undergraduate degrees and work experience are strongly encouraged. This rule is to support first-time postgraduate learners from Africa.
- Commitment to Africa’s Development: You must demonstrate a clear and specific commitment to contributing to Africa’s development. This can be shown through your work experience, community engagement, entrepreneurship, or leadership roles. Oxford looks for alignment with AfOx values: Collegiality, Empathy, Commitment, Transparency, and Inclusivity.
- Oxford MBA Admission Requirements: You must meet the academic and admission requirements for the Oxford MBA, which includes a strong undergraduate degree, at least 2 years of work experience, GMAT or GRE scores, English proficiency, essays, and references.
How to Apply for Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarship 2027-2028
There is no separate application for the AfOx Graduate Scholarship. This is important – many applicants miss this.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare for Oxford MBA Application
Visit the official Oxford Saïd Business School MBA page. Prepare your CV, GMAT/GRE, personal statement, two professional references, and academic transcripts.
Step 2: Submit Your MBA Application by 6 January 2027
You must submit your complete Oxford MBA application online via the Saïd Business School application portal by the deadline: 6 January 2027. When you submit your MBA application, you will automatically be considered for the AfOx Graduate Scholarship if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Step 3: Shortlisting and Interview
If you are shortlisted for the scholarship, the University of Oxford will contact you directly. Only shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview process.
Why Choose AfOx Graduate Scholarship at Oxford?
Unlike many fully funded scholarships that only cover fees, AfOx invests in your leadership journey. You will join the Africa Oxford Initiative – a growing platform that connects African researchers and leaders with Oxford. You will gain access to world-class MBA training, build a global network, and receive lifelong support to create impact back home in Africa.
With the UK’s rising cost of living, the living grant of £21,805+ is a significant relief, ensuring you can focus fully on your studies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is IELTS required?
Yes, if you are not from an English-speaking country, you need to meet Oxford’s English language requirements. Check Saïd Business School’s MBA page for waivers.
Q2. Can I apply if I already have a Master’s?
No. According to Oxford, candidates who have already taken a Master’s degree are not eligible for this specific scholarship.
Q3. Do I need to apply separately for the scholarship?
No. Once you apply for the Oxford MBA by 6 January 2027 and meet AfOx criteria, you are automatically considered.
Q4. How competitive is it?
Very competitive. Only up to three awards are available each year, so strong essays demonstrating your commitment to Africa are crucial.
Deadline Reminder: 6 January 2027 – No extensions. Start your GMAT/GRE and MBA essays early.
If you need help with resources to help you prepare for this scholarship explore our resources below.
Complete Scholarship Application Checklist: Everything You Need Before You Apply
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