Getting a scholarship can feel overwhelming, but once you know the correct process, the requirements, and what reviewers are looking for, your chances improve a lot. Whether it’s a local scholarship (Ghanaian institutions or foundations) or an overseas opportunity, many of the steps are similar. Let’s walk through it.
What Kind of Scholarships Are There in Ghana
First, it helps to understand the kinds of scholarships you might apply for. Here are common types:
- Local / Domestic Scholarships: By the Ghana Scholarships Secretariat, NGOs, foundations, corporate bodies (e.g. MTN Foundation), etc. These help students studying in Ghana. Ghana Scholarship Secretariat+2MTN Scholarship+2
- Government Grants / Funds: For example, the GETFund scholarship (Ghana Education Trust Fund) for undergraduates, postgraduate levels. khinkodienewshub+2Ghana Scholarship Secretariat+2
- International / Study-Abroad Scholarships: Awards from foreign universities or organizations (e.g. GREAT Scholarships by the British Council). Study UK+1
- Private / Foundation Scholarships: Non-profits like the JEQ Foundation (Joseph & Elizabeth Quansah Foundation) that provide tuition, residential scholarships, mentoring. JEQ Foundation
Eligibility & Pre-Check: What You Should Do First
Before applying, check carefully:
- Citizenship / Residency Requirements
Many local scholarships require you to be a Ghanaian citizen and have a valid national ID (e.g. Ghana Card). Ghana Scholarship Secretariat+1 - Academic Qualifications
You may need certain grades (for secondary school: WASSCE or equivalent), or for postgraduate / study abroad, previous degrees and transcripts. Admission letters, certificates. khinkodienewshub+2IBS Consulting+2 - Admission to an Institution
For many scholarships, you must already have been admitted (or at least have a firm offer) at a recognized tertiary institution (public or private). Ghana Scholarship Secretariat+1 - Financial Need / Demonstration of Need
Local scholarships often require you to show that you are financially disadvantaged. This might include submitting documents, interviews, etc. Ghana Scholarship Secretariat+1 - No Double Benefit / Conflicts
Some scholarships or government ones stipulate that you are not already receiving another full scholarship or similar funding. Ghana Scholarship Secretariat
Step-by-Step Application Process
Here’s a common flow of steps to apply for a scholarship in Ghana, especially for local/district scholarships or foundation scholarships:
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Find the Right Scholarship | Look for ones for which you are eligible: local, institutional, foundation-based or abroad. Check application windows/deadlines. Keep a list. |
| Step 2: Gather Required Documents Early | Prepare academic records, admission letters, transcripts, national ID / Ghana Card, passport photo, letters of recommendation, proof of finance need (if required). |
| Step 3: Register / Create Account (if needed) | For government or foundation portals you’ll often have to create an account on their website. For example, the Ghana Scholarships Secretariat uses an online portal for local tertiary scholarship applications. Ghana Scholarship Secretariat |
| Step 4: Fill the Application Form Carefully | Provide accurate details: name, address, academic history, course details, institution, financial information. Mistakes here cost marks. |
| Step 5: Write Required Essays / Motivation Letters | Many scholarship applications require a letter or essay explaining why you deserve the scholarship: your goals, how you’ve overcome challenges, how the scholarship will help you. Tailor to each scholarship’s mission. |
| Step 6: Submit Supporting Documents | Upload or physically submit items like admission letters, transcripts, identity documents, proof of fee schedule, etc. Make sure uploads are clear, correctly named, and all required documents included. |
| Step 7: Attend Interviews / Local Committees (if applicable) | For many local scholarships (e.g. those via district scholarship committees), there is a face-to-face interview. Bring originals of all documents. Be honest and confident. Ghana Scholarship Secretariat+1 |
| Step 8: Follow Up & Wait for Notification | Be alert for messages via email, SMS, or the portal. Scholarship bodies often publish a list of successful applicants. If unsuccessful, ask if feedback is available. |
| Step 9: Accept / Confirm Scholarship | Once selected, you may have to sign agreements, meet conditions (maintain grades, etc.), and ensure disbursement processes are followed. |
Specific Examples: Local & Foundation Cases
It helps to look at real examples:
- Ghana Scholarships Secretariat — Local Tertiary Scholarships
This scholarship aims to help academically qualified but financially disadvantaged students who are admitted to accredited tertiary institutions. The application opens around June-August each academic year. The application is submitted online, then assessment is done at the district level. Ghana Scholarship Secretariat - GETFund Scholarship
The Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) scholarship has documented requirements: minimum academic certificates, admission letter, fee schedule, undergraduate or postgraduate depending on level. There’s an online portal for applying. khinkodienewshub - MTN Ghana Foundation Scholarship
The MTN Foundation runs a scholarship program. Applicants are asked to apply via an online portal, and include a motivation letter, educational history, etc. MTN Scholarship - JEQ Foundation
The Joseph & Elizabeth Quansah Foundation awards full tuition & residential scholarships to undergraduate students in Ghana, selecting based on academic excellence & financial need. They also mentor and support scholars throughout their program. JEQ Foundation
Tips to Make Your Application Stand Out (and Succeed)
Here are some “insider” tips and best practices. These often distinguish successful applicants from the rest.
- Start Early
Deadlines are real. Some scholarships open months before the academic year starts. Leaving things to the last minute can lead to mistakes or missing important documents. - Read Instructions Carefully
Every scholarship has different requirements — one may want extra documents, or require a specific format for essays, or a particular academic level. Following instructions shows you pay attention to detail. - Write a Strong Personal Statement / Motivation Letter
- Be authentic: tell your story, not what you think they want to hear.
- Show how the scholarship will help your goals and impact your community.
- Keep it concise but detailed.
- Proofread several times; get someone else to read and give feedback.
- Maintain Academic Excellence
Your grades/transcripts often matter. If you’re already in tertiary school, keep your GPA strong. Show progress, continuous improvement. - Get Solid Recommendation Letters
Ask teachers, mentors, or supervisors who know you well, not just someone with an impressive title who barely knows you. Provide them with the info they need — your achievements, reasons you want the scholarship — so their letters are specific and powerful. - Demonstrate Financial Need (If Required)
If the scholarship asks for proof of need, get your documents ready: utility bills, letters from local authorities, proof of guardians’ income or statements of hardship. Be honest and clear. - Tailor Each Application
If applying to multiple scholarships, don’t just copy-paste. Adapt your essays, wording, and examples to match each scholarship’s values and criteria. - Check for Additional Costs (Travel, Visa, Books, Accommodation)
Sometimes the scholarship covers only tuition. Be clear whether your extra costs are covered and have a plan to meet them if needed. - Practice Interview Skills
If there is an interview, prepare: know about the scholarship body, your course, your future goals. Dress appropriately, be punctual, polite, and articulate your motivations confidently. - Keep Track of Deadlines and Follow Up
Create a spreadsheet or calendar: name of scholarship, deadline, documents required, status (submitted / pending / selected). If possible, follow up (politely) to confirm they received your application or documents.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete applications or missing documents.
- Ignoring required formatting (e.g. PDF vs JPEG, size of file).
- Generic essays that could be for any scholarship.
- Late submissions.
- Not proofing essays, leading to grammar/spelling errors.
- Forgetting to check eligibility and accidentally applying for a scholarship you don’t qualify for.
After Applying: What to Do While Waiting
- Keep copies of everything you submitted.
- Continue your academic work well — many scholarships monitor ongoing performance.
- If rejected, seek feedback (if possible) and improve for next time.
- Look for alternate scholarships — perhaps smaller, local ones — that may have less competition.
- Stay informed: sometimes additional rounds or supplementary calls are made.
Useful Sources & Portals in Ghana
To find scholarships and the relevant application info, these are good starting places:
- Ghana Scholarships Secretariat — Local tertiary scholarships. Ghana Scholarship Secretariat
- GETFund Scholarship portal. khinkodienewshub
- MTN Ghana Foundation Scholarship. MTN Scholarship
- JEQ Foundation. JEQ Foundation
- British Council / GREAT Scholarships for UK-based postgraduate opportunities. Study UK
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program — For broader international scholarships with guidance. Mastercard Foundation
Sample Timeline & Checklist
Here’s a suggested timeline and checklist to help you stay on track:
| Time Before Desired Start | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 6-12 months before | Research scholarships, gather required documents (certificates, transcripts, ID), prepare your personal statement, request recommendation letters. |
| 3-6 months before | Complete application forms, get essays reviewed, ensure financial documents ready, check eligibility criteria. |
| 1-2 months before deadline | Submit applications; make sure nothing is missing; backup copies; ensure all submissions are confirmed. |
| After submission | Prepare for interviews, monitor email or SMS for responses, keep academic records up to date. |
Conclusion
Applying for a scholarship in Ghana doesn’t have to be a shot in the dark. The more organized, prepared, honest, and persistent you are, the better your chances. Start early, gather everything carefully, tailor your essays, and use the resources available (government portals, foundations, international opportunities). Even if one doesn’t work out, each application is a learning experience for the next.
