LSE Africa Initiative Scholarships 2027

Overview

The LSE Africa Initiative funds outstanding African Masters students at the London School of Economics. Awards range from full coverage of tuition and a living stipend to partial fee waivers. Around 5 to 8 full awards per cycle plus a wider pool of partial awards. Open to citizens and residents of African countries with a strong academic record and demonstrated financial need. The 2027 cycle closes 30 April 2027.

Benefits

• Full tuition fee waiver at LSE for the one-year taught Masters programme.
• Annual maintenance stipend (currently around GBP 18,000) covering accommodation, food, and personal expenses.
• Return travel grant between home country and London.
• Access to LSE’s Africa Centre programming and research events.
• Membership in the LSE Africa Initiative alumni community.
• Career placement support targeted at African public-sector and development-sector roles.

Eligibility

• Citizen of an African country, ordinarily resident in Africa.
• Holding an offer of admission to an LSE taught Masters programme for October 2027 entry.
• First-class or strong upper-second undergraduate honours from a recognised university.
• Documented financial need: household income, family circumstances, no other major funding source.
• Demonstrated leadership or community engagement.
• Commitment to return to Africa and contribute to the continent’s development after the Masters.

How to apply

1. Apply for admission to your chosen LSE Masters programme by the LSE postgraduate deadline (typically late January 2027 for most courses).
2. In the LSE Graduate Funding section of your application, indicate interest in the LSE Africa Initiative Scholarships.
3. Complete the supplementary financial declaration and the Africa Initiative motivation statement (500 words on your goals and connection to Africa).
4. Submit by 30 April 2027.
5. LSE Africa Initiative scholars are announced between June and July 2027 for October 2027 entry.