Learn Africa Postgraduate Scholarships 2026 For African Women

Apply for Learn Africa postgraduate scholarships for African women! Fully funded master’s and PhD opportunities in Spain, including STEM and social sciences. 

Overview of Learn Africa Postgraduate Scholarships

The Learn Africa postgraduate scholarship—a flagship of the Women for Africa Foundation—returns in 2025 with expanded opportunities. Over 13 years, it has awarded 445 scholarships to 403 African women from 36 countries, strengthening leadership and academic careers.

This year, the programme includes:

• 5 PhD scholarships, including two funded by Universidad Alfonso X el Sabio

• 36% of scholarships offered in English or bilingual English–Spanish formats

• New study areas: Veterinary Science, Computational Intelligence & IoT, Regenerative Biology, Applied Psychology Research

• Hybrid learning options, allowing winners to study remotely or in Spain

• 68 new scholarships plus 25 renewals

New Partners & Sponsors

Learn Africa now partners with over 60 institutions. Highlights include:

• Universidad de La Laguna, offering 4 in‑person master’s scholarships

• GMV Innovating Solutions, funding UPM doctoral awards since 2017

• Anesvad Foundation, sponsoring 2 PhD scholarships in Neglected Tropical Diseases

Eligibility & Requirements

Who Can Apply

• Women with African citizenship and residence

• Holders or soon-to-be holders of a university degree from an African institution

• Master’s candidates: Bachelor’s degree required

• PhD candidates: Master’s degree required

Application Rules

• Only one application per person

• Must meet general and scholarship-specific criteria

• Online candidates need suitable hardware and connectivity

Language Requirements

• Academic language level required: B2 or C1

• Acceptable proof: official certificate or university telephone interview

Application Requirements & Document Checklist

Prepare these before applying (all files ≤4MB, formats: png, jpg, pdf, docx, etc.):

1. Passport or ID

2. One recent photo

3. CV (curriculum vitae)

4. University diploma or degree certificate

5. Full academic transcripts

6. Motivation letter

7. Reference letter(s)

8. Language proficiency certificate (if required)

9. Any additional documents specific to the scholarship

What Each Scholarship Covers

Online Scholarships

• Tuition fees only

In‑Person & Hybrid Scholarships

• Tuition, travel, accommodation & meals, health insurance

Note:
Expenses not covered include visa fees, document recognition/legalization, internet costs, re‑enrollment, day‑to‑day living, or family relocation costs. Winners are encouraged to bring personal savings.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

1. Review general and specific eligibility

2. Prepare required documents

3. Access the application portal

4. Register or log in

5. Choose your scholarship (only one per person)

6. Complete the form and upload documents

7. Submit before deadline

8. Confirmation message and email will be sent

Important: Applications cannot be modified after submission.

Selection Process & Notification

• Scoring criteria:
  • CV: up to 3 points

  • References: 3 points

  • Motivation: 3 points

  • Language skills: 3 points

  • Academic distinction: 3 points

  • Project/Concept note: 3 points (if required)

Shortlist reviewed in collaboration with host universities. Final results announced in June on the foundation’s website, and selected candidates are notified via email (and possibly phone).

Scholarship Acceptance & Conditions

• Winners have 7 working days to accept via email

• Late acceptance results in forfeiture and reallocation

• Recipients must:
  • Follow university and programme regulations

  • Notify the foundation if withdrawing (possible 2-year ban)

  • Maintain ongoing commitment to studies

Post-Scholarship Obligations

After graduation, recipients must:

• Share academic results and return date

• Submit a brief narrative report

• Complete a satisfaction and impact survey

• Join the Learn Africa alumnae network

• Authorize use of their report or achievements by the foundation or university

Key Considerations & Transparency

• One application per person; no changes allowed after submission

• Verify passport validity (6+ months)

• Online students must ensure reliable technology

• Contact host university and foundation if personal situations (illness, pregnancy, bereavement) arise

• Inform immediately if accepting another scholarship

Final Thoughts on Learn Africa 2025–2026

The Learn Africa postgraduate scholarship empowers African women through fully or partially funded master’s and PhD studies in Spain. It offers leadership training, academic excellence, and network opportunities. If you’re passionate about Veterinary Science, IoT, regenerative biology, psychology, or global health, act now.

Prepare required documents, research your preferred programme, and apply via the official portal. Elevate your career and contribute to your country’s future.