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Scholarships for Africans studying in the U.S. or Canada

Are you an African student with dreams of studying in the U.S. or Canada? You’re in good company. Many students from Africa share your aspirations. But let’s face it, the cost of international student programs can be a significant hurdle. That’s where scholarships come into play. They can be a game-changer, transforming your dreams into reality and opening the door to a world of opportunities.

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Scholarships for African students: A deeper dive

The reality of scholarships
You might be wondering, “Are there really scholarships specifically for African students?” The answer is a resounding yes! A variety of organizations, educational institutions and private entities offer scholarships designed to support students from Africa. These financial aid scholarships aim to foster diversity, promote cultural exchange and empower African students like you to reach your academic goals. However, finding the right student scholarship option that aligns with your needs, qualifications and aspirations can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

The impact of scholarships
Scholarships do more than just pay for your education. They can open doors to new experiences, ideas and opportunities. They can help you make your mark on the world, and they can give you the freedom to focus on your studies, not your bills. Scholarships for African students can be a stepping stone to a brighter future, enabling you to pursue your dreams without financial stress.

The journey to finding the right scholarships
The journey to finding the right international student scholarship can be a challenging one. It requires research, time and perseverance. You’ll need to navigate through complex application processes, meet eligibility criteria and stand out in a pool of competitive applicants. But remember, every step you take brings you closer to your goal. And the reward – a scholarship that supports your education and future – is well worth the effort.

MPOWER Scholarships

International student scholarships are designed with your needs in mind.

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MPOWER: empowering African students

MPOWER Financing stands at the forefront of educational support, especially for those embarking on an international academic journey. As a global education loan provider, MPOWER is more than just a financial institution; it’s a dedicated partner in your journey to success. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by students from diverse backgrounds, MPOWER offers a variety of student scholarships designed to support future leaders from around the globe If you’re an African student enrolling in a full-time degree program at a U.S. or Canadian school that MPOWER lists as an eligible institution, you could be eligible to apply for these scholarships.

MPOWER offers unique monthly scholarship opportunities, including scholarships with varying topics for submission, ranging from Back to School Advice to Embracing and Overcoming Challenges. Plus, it has specific scholarships like the MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship and the Women in STEM Scholarship. Many of the scholarships are open to African students and range from US$1,000 to US$10,000.

Overcoming financial challenges

The journey to securing a scholarship can be challenging, especially for African students studying internationally. But remember, every challenge is an opportunity in disguise.

Here’s a closer look at some of the hurdles you might face and how to overcome them:

Navigating complex application processes: Scholarship applications often involve multiple steps, from filling out forms to writing essays and gathering recommendations. Following this process and figuring out how to get a scholarship can be overwhelming, especially if you’re applying for multiple scholarships. But don’t worry, with careful planning and organization, you can navigate these procedures successfully. Start by understanding the requirements of each scholarship and create a checklist for each application.

Meeting eligibility criteria: Scholarships often have strict eligibility criteria. These can include academic achievements, extracurricular activities and sometimes even specific areas of study. If you’re looking specifically at scholarships for Africans, you might also face additional criteria related to your nationality or residency. Understanding these criteria and applying for scholarships that align with your qualifications and interests is important.

Standing out in a competitive pool: Scholarships attract applications from many qualified international students, making the process highly competitive. To stand out, you need to showcase your unique strengths, experiences and aspirations. Personalize your application and essays to reflect your journey as an African student and your vision for the future.

Lack of information and guidance: Finding reliable information about student scholarships can be a challenge, especially for international students from Africa. It’s important to use trusted sources and seek guidance when needed:

  • Reach out to your school’s financial aid office.
  • Use reputable scholarship search engines.
  • Contact scholarship providers for clarification.

Overcoming financial barriers: Many African students face financial barriers when applying for scholarships, such as application fees. Some scholarships, like those offered by MPOWER, do not require an application fee, making them more accessible.

The journey to securing a scholarship may be challenging, but it’s not impossible. With determination, preparation and the right resources, you can overcome these hurdles and secure the financial support you need for your studies.

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Why MPOWER?

Choosing MPOWER Financing is opting for a supportive entity in your educational journey. MPOWER isn’t merely a lender; it’s a collective effort initiated by former international students, with a focus on facilitating education financing for international students.

No cosigner or collateral required: Unlike some lenders, MPOWER doesn’t ask for a cosigner or collateral for our loans. The MPOWER team believes in your potential and is willing to invest in your future.

Career strategy services: MPOWER offers more than just financial support. Its career strategy services are designed to help you plan your future and manage your career growth. MPOWER is there to help you navigate the job market and make the most of your degree.

Support for international and DACA students: MPOWER’s primary customers are international and DACA students studying in the United States and Canada. Your unique challenges are understood, and there’s a commitment to providing solutions tailored to your needs.

Scholarships for global leaders: MPOWER offers a variety of international student scholarships designed to support future leaders from around the globe, including African students. Scholarships range from US$1,000 to US$10,000, providing substantial financial support for students.

Monthly scholarship opportunities: MPOWER offers unique monthly scholarship opportunities with varying topics like back to school and how you’ve tackled a challenge to better yourself or your community. This means more chances for you to secure financial support for your studies.

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FAQs

Who can apply for an MPOWER scholarship?

If you’re an international or DACA student studying full time at an MPOWER-eligible school, you can apply.

What types of scholarships are available for African students?

There are a variety of scholarships available specifically for African students aiming to study in the U.S. or Canada. These scholarships come from different organizations, educational institutions, and private entities, aimed at promoting cultural exchange and empowering students to achieve their academic goals.

What kinds of scholarships does MPOWER Financing offer?

MPOWER Financing offers a range of scholarships, including the MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship, Women in STEM Scholarship and monthly scholarships on varying topics.

What steps can African students take to find and secure scholarships?

The process of finding the right scholarship involves research, time, and perseverance. It’s essential to understand the requirements of each scholarship, meet the eligibility criteria, and stand out in a competitive pool of applicants. Utilizing reputable scholarship search engines, contacting scholarship providers for clarification, and seeking guidance from school’s financial aid office can be helpful.

How do African students apply for MPOWER scholarships?

Just visit the MPOWER Financing Scholarships page and follow the application steps for each scholarship.

How can scholarships benefit African students studying abroad?

Scholarships can significantly ease the financial burden of international education, allowing students to focus more on their studies and less on their bills. Moreover, scholarships open doors to new experiences, ideas, and opportunities, acting as a stepping stone to a brighter future.

What makes MPOWER Financing different from other student lenders?

MPOWER Financing doesn’t ask for a cosigner or collateral. Plus, it offers career strategy services to help you plan your future. MPOWER isn’t just a student loan provider; it’s a partner in your journey to success.

*Rates as low as 9.99% (10.89% APR) available only for the fall 2025 semester and you must submit your application by December 31, 2024. This interest rate and APR includes a 0.25% discount for automatic recurring payments and a 0.75% discount from our limited-time early planner promotion.

DISCLAIMER – Subject to credit approval, loans are made by Bank of Lake Mills or MPOWER Financing, PBC. Bank of Lake Mills does not have an ownership interest in MPOWER Financing. Neither MPOWER Financing nor Bank of Lake Mills is affiliated with the school you attended or are attending. Bank of Lake Mills is Member FDIC. None of the information contained in this website constitutes a recommendation, solicitation or offer by MPOWER Financing or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments or other assets or provide any investment advice or service.

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