University of Manchester and its Alumni - Equity and Merit Scholarships 

Equity and Merit Scholarships (University of Manchester)

You will receive a full-cost master's scholarship at the University of Manchester in the UK. Your tuition fees will be covered in full. If you study on campus for one year, the scholarship will also cover your flights to and from the UK, your living costs and your visa. If you opt for the part-time online programme, only your tuition fees will be covered. Each year, 30 scholarships are awarded: 20 for full-time study in Manchester and 10 for an online programme lasting three to five years. The university funds these scholarships to enable talented individuals from six African countries to obtain a Master’s degree and subsequently contribute to the development of their home countries.

Who can apply

• Where you're from: You are a citizen living in Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda or Zimbabwe.
• Your degree: You already hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognised higher education institution with the required grade, awarded before the deadline for your degree programme.
• Work experience: You must have at least two years’ paid professional experience in the subject area you wish to study. Unpaid work placements and voluntary work do not count towards this requirement.
• Field of study: You can choose from the eligible Master’s programmes. These include engineering, computer science, environmental sciences, health and medical sciences, global development, education and law.
• Study abroad history: You have not yet studied outside Africa. Short courses lasting up to six months do not count.
• Plans: You intend to return to your home country after completing your studies. You can explain how your degree will benefit your career and those around you.
• Money: Without this scholarship, you would not be able to afford to study in Manchester. Particular consideration is given to applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds, and women are strongly encouraged to apply.

How to apply

Applications must be made using the university’s separate scholarship application form, rather than via the standard admissions procedure for the degree programme. The application deadline is 31 August each year. If you meet the criteria, the university will then invite you to submit a formal application for your chosen Master’s programme.

How realistic are your chances?

Each year, only 30 scholarships are awarded, and these are restricted to nationals of six countries who hold the required qualification and can demonstrate two years’ relevant professional experience. This means that the pool of eligible candidates is far smaller than for an open scholarship. If you clearly meet these criteria, can demonstrate a genuine financial need and submit a plan for returning to your home country, your chances are good. The places on campus, where all costs are covered, are the most sought-after, so a convincing, well-reasoned application is crucial.