Access to quality education should not be limited by finances – and for many Ghanaian students, scholarships are essential stepping stones to achieving academic goals both at home and abroad. This updated guide highlights top scholarship opportunities available in 2026 and 2027 and provides actionable tips on how to apply successfully.
🎓 1. Ghana Scholarship Secretariat Scholarships (Local & Foreign)
The Ghana Scholarships Secretariat is the government body that administers several scholarship schemes to support Ghanaian students. It offers:
- Local Tertiary Scholarships – for students attending accredited Ghanaian institutions
- National Merit Scholarships – for high achievers based on academic excellence
- Foreign Tertiary Scholarships – for programs abroad
- Special Needs Support – for students with disabilities
- Professional & Continuing Education Grants – for certifications and career advancement studies
📍 Apply/Register: Visit the official portal at www.scholarships.gov.gh
🌍 2. GETFund Scholarship (Local & Foreign)
The Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) supports both local and international studies, particularly for undergraduate and postgraduate students:
- Local GETFund – tuition, books, sometimes accommodation
- Foreign GETFund – tuition, return flight, living expenses (for postgraduate study)
- Eligibility requires proven financial need and academic excellence
👉 Keep an eye on the official GETFund scholarship announcements each year at getfund.gov.gh/scholarships.
📚 3. MTN Bright Scholarship
MTN Ghana Foundation provides scholarships to talented but financially constrained students in public tertiary institutions.
- Covers full tuition, accommodation, books, and a monthly stipend
- Highly competitive – strong academic results and leadership potential required
🔬 4. GNPC Foundation Scholarship
Offered by the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), this scholarship supports students (often in STEM and priority areas) with tuition and related academic costs.
- Aimed at developing local talent in strategic sectors
- Eligibility includes academic merit and financial need
💼 5. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
A globally recognized initiative that provides full scholarships – including tuition, accommodation, stipends, health insurance, and leadership development – at selected universities such as:
- Ashesi University (Ghana)
- University of Ghana
- Select international partnerships (e.g., U of Toronto)
Highly competitive, this program seeks students with strong academic records and leadership potential.
🏛️ 6. University of Ghana & Other Institutional Scholarships
Many Ghanaian universities offer merit-based or need-based awards to enrolled students. Examples include:
- University of Ghana Financial Aid Scholarships – partial/full tuition support
- Other private institutions like Ashesi University offer institution-specific scholarships based on merit and need.
✈️ 7. International Government & External Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships (UK)
- Fully funded master’s program for future leaders
- Covers tuition, living allowance, flights, and visa fees
DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
- For postgraduate study in Germany
- Includes tuition support, stipend, travel, and health insurance
Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
- Supports Ghanaian students in Master’s and PhD programs
- Covers full tuition, housing, travel, and living expenses
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (Canada)
- Full funding at the University of Toronto for exceptional undergraduates
These opportunities often have specific deadlines and eligibility criteria, so check their official portals for full details.
🎓 8. Other Notable Opportunities
While not always strictly scholarships, the following can provide financial support or competitive funding to Ghanaian students:
- IIASA Young Scientists Summer Program – research-focused funding for doctoral students
- University-specific scholarships abroad, such as those in the UK, USA, and Australia, listed on scholarship platforms like ScholarshipBob and ScholarshipTab
📌 Tips to Improve Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
1. Start Early
Scholarship deadlines vary – some open a year before the academic session. Track applications and set reminders.
2. Prepare Strong Documentation
Gather academic transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statements, and financial need documents early.
3. Focus on Impact
Highlight leadership, community involvement, and a clear purpose in your essays.
4. Apply Widely
Don’t limit yourself to one scholarship – multiple applications increase your chances.
5. Stay Updated
Follow official scholarship portals and subscribe to alerts for new opportunities.
📍 Useful Resources & Links
- Ghana Scholarship Secretariat – Official Portal: https://scholarships.gov.gh
- GETFund Scholarship Info: getfund.gov.gh/scholarships
- Chevening Scholarships: https://www.chevening.org
- DAAD Scholarship Database: https://www.daad.de
