Question:
Hey am a Namibian and i was hoping you could recommend fully funded scholarships for Namibian undergrad students?
Answer:
There are several fully funded scholarships available for Namibian undergraduate students who wish to study abroad. Here are some of the most prominent options:
1. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
- Description: The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarships for students from developing countries, including Namibia, to pursue undergraduate studies in Germany.
- Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, health insurance, travel allowance, and more.
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Application Requirements: Strong academic record, German or English language proficiency (depending on the program), and often a commitment to return to Namibia after studies.
2. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
- Description: This program offers scholarships to students from Africa, including Namibia, to study at partner universities in the USA, Canada, and Africa.
- Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, books, and other academic materials, travel, and support services.
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Application Requirements: Demonstrated academic talent, commitment to improving the lives of others in your community, and a leadership track record.
3. The Namibian Students Financial Assistance Fund (NSFAF)
- Description: NSFAF offers financial aid to Namibian students for both local and international studies. Some scholarships cover full tuition and living expenses for study abroad.
- Coverage: Depends on the specific scholarship or loan but may include full tuition, living costs, and travel.
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Application Requirements: Must be a Namibian citizen with a strong academic record. Specific requirements vary depending on the scholarship.
4. Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
- Description: Commonwealth Scholarships are available to students from Commonwealth countries, including Namibia, to study in the UK.
- Coverage: Full tuition, living allowance, travel costs, and other expenses.
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Application Requirements: High academic achievement, leadership potential, and a plan to contribute to the development of Namibia.
5. Ashinaga Africa Initiative
- Description: This initiative offers scholarships to orphaned students from Africa, including Namibia, to study at universities abroad (in Japan, USA, UK, etc.).
- Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and other associated costs.
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Application Requirements: Must be an orphan, demonstrate academic excellence, and show a commitment to returning to Africa to contribute to the continent’s development.
6. Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships
- Description: The MEXT scholarship is offered by the Japanese government to international students, including Namibians, for undergraduate studies in Japan.
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, and travel expenses.
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Application Requirements: Good academic record, Japanese language proficiency (for certain courses), and age restrictions apply.
7. The Swedish Institute Study Scholarships (SISS)
- Description: This scholarship is available to students from developing countries, including Namibia, to study in Sweden.
- Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, insurance, and travel grants.
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Application Requirements: Must have a good academic record and demonstrate leadership potential.
8. VLIR-UOS Scholarships (Belgium)
- Description: These scholarships are offered to students from selected developing countries, including Namibia, to pursue undergraduate and graduate studies in Belgium.
- Coverage: Full tuition, accommodation, allowance, travel, and insurance.
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Application Requirements: Academic merit, a strong motivation to study in Belgium, and a commitment to the development of Namibia.
9. University-Specific Scholarships
- Description: Many universities worldwide offer specific scholarships for African students or students from developing countries. It’s worth researching specific universities you’re interested in for potential scholarships.
- Examples:
- University of Edinburgh (Scotland): The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
- Sciences Po (France): Emile Boutmy Scholarship for international students
- Harvard University (USA): Financial aid based on need, which can cover full costs.
Application Tips
- Start Early: Many scholarships have early deadlines.
- Tailor Applications: Customize your application to each scholarship.
- Seek Guidance: Reach out to scholarship offices or past recipients for advice.
Good luck with your applications!
