Mariam SulaimonHere is how to study in the UK for free through the Cambridge-Africa Changemakers Scholarship. Learn eligibility, benefits, and how to apply in 2025 for full funding.
Every year, thousands of international students dream of pursuing higher education in the United Kingdom.
But for many, the cost is a barrier. If you’re an African student seeking a prestigious and fully funded scholarship in the UK, your opportunity is here: the Cambridge-Africa Changemakers Scholarship.
Offered by the Cambridge Trust, this unique scholarship covers tuition, travel, living expenses, and other academic-related costs for eligible postgraduate students from Africa who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence.
In this article, you’ll learn how to study in the UK for free through the Cambridge-Africa Changemakers Scholarship, including eligibility, benefits, how to apply, and tips for success.
What is the Cambridge-Africa Changemakers Scholarship?
The Cambridge-Africa Changemakers Scholarship is a flagship initiative funded by the Cambridge Trust and the University of Cambridge, aimed at supporting outstanding African students who show promise as future leaders and innovators.
It enables students from across Africa to undertake full-time PhD or Master’s degrees at Cambridge—at zero cost.
The scholarship is designed not only to develop academic talent but to foster individuals who will drive transformation in Africa’s development, governance, and policy-making across various sectors.
Why Study in the UK with a Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
The University of Cambridge is one of the world’s most renowned universities, consistently ranked among the top in global education indices. A scholarship from Cambridge is more than just financial support—it’s access to:
- World-class academic resources
- Global professional networks
- Leadership mentoring
- Research funding
- Innovation ecosystems
By securing this fully funded scholarship, you’ll be able to complete your graduate studies in the UK without any financial burden, while also preparing for high-impact careers in your home country or globally.
Key Benefits of the Cambridge-Africa Changemakers Scholarship
This scholarship covers all major expenses related to your study and stay in the UK:
Full Tuition Fees
100% of your course tuition at the University of Cambridge is covered.
Living Allowance
A generous monthly stipend is provided to cover accommodation, food, transportation, and general living expenses throughout your study period.
Travel Costs
Round-trip airfare from your home country to the UK is included.
Visa & Immigration Support
Support for UK visa applications and any mandatory immigration health surcharges.
Research & Academic Support
Extra funds for fieldwork, conferences, and academic development may also be available depending on your course.
Eligibility Criteria for 2025
To qualify for the Cambridge-Africa Changemakers Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following:
Citizenship
- Be a citizen of an African country (proof of nationality required)
Academic Admission
- Apply for admission to a full-time postgraduate program (Master’s or PhD) at the University of Cambridge
- Meet the academic entry requirements of your chosen course
Leadership & Impact
- Demonstrate leadership potential, a commitment to social impact, and a plan to return to Africa to drive change
Language Proficiency
- Meet Cambridge’s English language requirements (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL if needed)
Funding Need
- Show a genuine need for financial support to study abroad
Eligible Courses and Fields of Study
While the scholarship is open to all academic disciplines, preference may be given to programs that align with African development priorities such as:
- Public Health & Medicine
- Engineering & Technology
- Agricultural Sciences
- Environmental Studies
- Education & Policy
- Governance & Law
- Business & Economics
- STEM Fields
Applicants are encouraged to pursue research or coursework that addresses challenges facing African communities.
How to Apply for the Cambridge-Africa Changemakers Scholarship in 2025
The process involves two key stages: academic admission to the University of Cambridge and the scholarship application via the Cambridge Trust.
Step 1: Apply to Cambridge University
- Visit the University of Cambridge Postgraduate Admissions Portal
- Choose a full-time Master’s or PhD course
- Submit your application by the relevant course deadline
- Include all required documents (CV, academic transcripts, references, statement of purpose)
Step 2: Be Considered for Scholarships
- Indicate in your application that you wish to be considered for funding by the Cambridge Trust
- There is no separate application for the Cambridge-Africa Changemakers Scholarship
- Shortlisted applicants may be contacted for an interview or asked to provide additional information
Step 3: Track Your Progress
- You’ll receive updates through the CamSIS portal
- Final scholarship decisions are usually made by April – June each year
Important Deadlines
| Activity | Deadline |
| Course Application Opens | September 2024 |
| Course Deadlines | Varies by program (typically Dec 2024 – Jan 2025) |
| Scholarship Consideration Deadline | Same as course deadline |
| Final Offers Issued | March–June 2025 |
To maximize your chances, apply as early as possible—don’t wait until the final deadline.
Documents Required
Ensure the following documents are ready:
- Valid passport
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Updated CV or resume
- Statement of Purpose
- Two academic references
- English language test score (if required)
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
Optional but recommended:
- Letter showing your community engagement
- Evidence of leadership or social impact
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be evaluated based on:
- Academic merit
- Leadership potential
- Relevance of course to African development
- Financial need
- Clarity and feasibility of future impact plans
Shortlisted candidates may also be assessed on their ability to represent Africa internationally as scholars and change agents.
Who Should Apply?
This scholarship is ideal for:
- Final-year undergraduates or recent graduates with strong grades
- Mid-career professionals seeking to deepen expertise
- Young academics pursuing PhD research
- Social innovators and changemakers committed to African development
Whether you’re passionate about transforming health systems, advancing education, leading policy change, or building tech startups, this scholarship supports your mission.
Success Tips for a Strong Application
Apply Early
Start your course and scholarship applications as soon as the portal opens. Early applicants stand a better chance.
Craft a Powerful Statement of Purpose
Explain not just what you want to study, but why it matters to Africa, and how you will drive impact after graduation.
Show Leadership & Commitment
Include stories, projects, or roles that highlight your initiative, leadership, and community involvement.
Prepare for Interviews
If shortlisted, you may be asked about your vision, goals, and academic preparation.
Demonstrate Financial Need Clearly
Make it known that without funding, you cannot pursue this opportunity—but with it, you will create meaningful change.
What Makes This Scholarship Special?
Unlike many others, the Cambridge-Africa Changemakers Scholarship is designed by Africans, for Africans—rooted in understanding the continent’s challenges and equipping individuals to solve them through world-class education.
You don’t just get a degree—you join a network of African scholars supported by mentorship, collaboration, and global exposure.
Final Thoughts on Cambridge-Africa Changemakers Scholarship
The opportunity to study in the UK for free at the University of Cambridge is no longer a dream—it’s a possibility within reach. The Cambridge-Africa Changemakers Scholarship is your ticket to academic excellence, leadership growth, and long-term impact.
If you are an ambitious African changemaker with a vision for transforming your country, this scholarship is your path forward. Start preparing today—and take one bold step toward a brighter future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is the scholarship open to all African countries?
Yes, applicants from all African countries are eligible.
Q: Do I need to apply separately for the scholarship?
No, you only need to apply for admission to Cambridge and opt-in for funding consideration.
Q: Can I work while studying?
Yes, international students can work part-time during term and full-time during holidays, under UK visa rules.
Q: Is the scholarship renewable?
Yes, for multi-year programs like PhDs, the funding is renewable annually based on academic performance.
Abdulqaadir Olomu
Mariam Sulaimon