Securing Scholarships in Ghana: Your Ultimate Guide to Funding Your Education

Scholarships can transform ambitious students into qualified professionals without the heavy burden of tuition. In Ghana, a variety of scholarship opportunities exist for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies, whether at local universities or abroad. Understanding these options – from government-funded awards to private and international scholarships – is key to securing funding. This guide will help Ghanaian students navigate scholarship programs, prepare successful applications, and turn opportunities into reality. We’ll cover the landscape of scholarships in Ghana, outline the main types of funding available, and provide a step-by-step approach to maximize your chances. Along the way, we’ll share real examples (such as Ghanaian students winning scholarships to the UK) and link to trusted sources to support our advice.

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Understanding the Scholarship Landscape in Ghana

Ghana’s education system is growing, and the demand for financial aid is high. Government programs, private organizations, and foreign partners all offer scholarships to Ghanaian students, each with different criteria and benefits. For example, GETFund (Ghana Education Trust Fund) is a major source of local scholarships. In 2023/24 GETFund supported 5,026 students (a 15% increase from the previous year), covering tuition fees totaling GH₵33.74 million across 145 institutionsadomonline.com. This shows the scale of public support. Other national initiatives like the Ghana Scholarship Authority (currently being established) plan new merit-based awards for top studentsadomonline.com, adomonline.com.

At the same time, Ghanaian universities often have internal grants or bursaries for outstanding or needy students. Private foundations (e.g. GNPC Foundation for the oil sector) and international bodies (e.g. Chevening, Fulbright) also fund Ghanaian scholars. Regardless of the source, most scholarships are merit-based (rewarding academic excellence or leadership) or need-based (supporting students with financial challenges)fredashedu.com. As one study guide notes, “many institutions and organizations offer scholarships and fellowships… often focusing on leadership potential and professional achievements”fredashedu.com.

Overall, Ghanaian students should adopt a broad search strategy: exploring government portals, university announcements, and foreign scholarship lists. Keep in mind that deadlines, eligibility, and required documents vary widely, so early planning is essential. In the following sections, we break down the main categories of scholarships and how to pursue them.

Types of Scholarships for Ghanaian Students

Ghanaian students can access several types of scholarships. Knowing the differences will help target the right programs:

Government-Funded Scholarships

1. GETFund (Local and Foreign Scholarships).

GETFund provides both local scholarships (for study in Ghana) and foreign scholarships (typically for postgraduate study abroad). For the 2023/24 year, GETFund awarded undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships to 5,026 Ghanaian studentsadomonline.com. These cover tuition (not typically living expenses) at public and private universities. GETFund also funds foreign Master’s scholarships for top Ghanaian graduates to study abroad in fields like STEM, especially if they attend tuition-free universitiesgnpcghana.com. Importantly, GETFund scholarships are merit-based; continuing students need a good GPA (minimum 2.0)gnpcghana.com. The process is through an online portal, and applicants are chosen through a competitive, transparent procedureadomonline.com, adomonline.com. GETFund emphasizes that their scholarships have no hidden fees – they are free to apply foradomonline.com.

2. Ghana Scholarship Authority & Presidential Awards.

In 2025, Ghana’s Minister of Education announced a new scholarship bill to overhaul the systemadomonline.com. This reform will create a Ghana Scholarship Authority to ensure merit-based awards and root out cronyism. One feature is a Presidential Scholarship for top WASSCE performers: increasing from 3 to 10 awardees every two yearsadomonline.com. These winners will receive GETFund-sponsored scholarships (covering tuition and possibly other support) to reward the highest academic achievers. In future, this could mean fully-funded undergraduate studies for the very top students.

3. GNPC Foundation (Oil Industry Scholarships).

The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation’s GNPC Foundation runs a scholarship scheme to develop local expertise in the oil sector. It offers both local scholarships (for first-degree students at Ghanaian universities) and foreign scholarships (for Master’s or PhD studies abroad)gnpcghana.com, gnpcghana.com. Applicants must be Ghanaian, have gained admission to a tertiary program, and meet academic criteria (e.g. top grades in WASSCE or a first-class/2nd class Lower degree for continuing students)gnpcghana.com, gnpcghana.com. This program specifically targets fields related to petroleum, engineering, and administration, but it also helps “brilliant but needy students who may be unable to access education” otherwisegnpcghana.com.

4. Other Government Schemes.

Several other public institutions and authorities have scholarships. For example, Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority and Oil/Gas Service Providers sometimes sponsor tertiary scholarships in relevant fields. Many Ghanaian ministries also send officers for foreign training (e.g. Diplomatic courses abroad). In addition, a handful of countries offer scholarships through bilateral agreements, often listed on the (sometimes hard-to-access) Ghana Scholarships Secretariat portaladomonline.com. Ghanaian applicants should routinely check scholarships.gov.gh (when available) and official announcements for new programs (such as Indian or Chinese government scholarships in specific years).

University and Institutional Scholarships

Many Ghanaian universities and colleges provide funding for exceptional students. These include:

• Merit Scholarships: Top entrants or top students (e.g. first-class graduates) at universities like University of Ghana, KNUST, GIMPA, and others may receive tuition waivers or stipends. For example, Emmanuel Tetteh, a KNUST graduate, won a 20% tuition scholarship to Nottingham University for holding a first-class degreemyjoyonline.com. While we lack a public database, students should inquire directly with their university’s Scholarship or Financial Aid Office about internal awards and criteria.

• Departmental Awards: Some departments or faculties at universities have funds (often from alumni or donors) for students in their fields. For instance, engineering or pharmacy departments may award fees funding to promising candidates.

• Donor and Bursary Funds: In limited cases, organizations (e.g. religious or community groups) establish bursaries. Students from certain regions or backgrounds sometimes get help from local trusts or families. These are rarely advertised widely, so networking and alumni connections can help.

University scholarships are typically merit-based and usually require maintaining a certain GPA. They can substantially reduce costs of study. For best results, ask your lecturers or academic advisors about any such schemes and deadlines, and apply well before your program begins.

Private, NGO, and Corporate Scholarships

Beyond government and universities, private foundations and NGOs offer scholarships for Ghanaian students, often with specific focus areas:

• Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: A major African funding scheme, in partnership with universities (e.g. Ashesi, KNUST, and others). The Mastercard Scholars Program provides full scholarships (tuition, living expenses, etc.) for undergraduate and master’s studies at partner institutionsmastercardfdn.org, mastercardfdn.org. Ghanaian youth have been beneficiaries, especially for business, STEM, and development courses. Although applications go through partner schools, it’s worth checking the official Mastercard Foundation Scholars sites or email to see which Ghanaian universities participate each year.

• CAMFED (Campaign for Female Education): CAMFED supports girls from rural Ghana through secondary and university education, often in fields like science, agriculture, and education. Applicants must typically come from certain regions and show financial need, but full funding is possible. CAMFED’s website and local chapters can guide interested girls. (We couldn’t find a direct citation here, but CAMFED is well-known in Ghana.)

• GNPC Foundation: We discussed above. (No duplication needed.)

• Other Industry Foundations: Companies like AngloGold Ashanti, Gold Fields, Tullow Oil, and Vodafone Ghana periodically award scholarships in STEM and management fields, often targeting children of employees or top science students. Watch industry news or check company websites for these.

• International NGOs: Organizations like UNESCO, Rotary, or religious groups sometimes offer fellowships or scholarships, especially at postgraduate level. For example, UNESCO often sponsors doctoral studies in fields important to development. These are competitive and often require nomination by Ghanaian agencies or prior contact.

International Scholarships (Global Study Opportunities)

Many Ghanaian students aspire to study abroad, and international scholarships can make it possible. Key global scholarships include:

• Chevening Scholarships (UK): Fully-funded Master’s scholarships for emerging leaders (covering tuition, living stipend, travel, etc.)chevening.org. Ghana has its own Chevening page (applications are usually open from August to November for the next academic year). Chevening is very prestigious and competitive, but thousands of Ghanaian alumni (e.g. finance minister Dr. Maxwell Afari or MPs) have benefited, often studying STEM, policy, or lawmyjoyonline.com. Successful Chevening candidates need an offer from a UK university and strong leadership essays.

• Commonwealth Scholarships (UK): Another British scholarship programme for Commonwealth country nationals (including Ghanaians). Offers Masters and PhD awards in STEM, environment, etc. (non-citizenship can vary). These usually require endorsement by the Ghana Scholarship Secretariat or an academic nominator. They are fully funded for tuition and living.

• Fulbright Ghana (USA): The Fulbright Foreign Student Program funds Ghanaian graduate students (typically Master’s or PhD) to study in the US. It covers tuition, living, and travel. The Ghanaian mission to USA or EducationUSA advisors can help applicants. Fulbright targets a wide range of fields, including arts, social sciences, and STEM.

• Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s (EU): Many Ghanaian students pursue Erasmus Mundus programs (EU-funded joint degrees). These are highly competitive (apply as individual to programs) but cover tuition and living across Europe.

• Other National Scholarships: Countries like China (CSC Scholarship), India (e.g. ICAR, ITEC, or Ayush scholarships), Japan (MEXT), France (Charpak), Germany (DAAD) and Turkey (Türkiye Scholarships) all have annual quotas for Ghanaian students. These often require applying through Ghanaian embassies or the Ghana Scholarship Secretariat. For example, India offered AYUSH scholarships in 2025scholarships.gov.gh for medical-related studies. It’s wise to check the Ghana Ministry of Education announcements or the respective embassy websites.

• International Foundations: Some global foundations (e.g. Ford Foundation, Soros Open Society, Aga Khan Foundation, Rotary) occasionally offer regional scholarships or fellowships that Ghanaian students can apply to, often through essays and references.

All these international scholarships share common steps: a strong academic record, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS), recommendation letters, and a compelling personal statement. They also typically require return-to-Ghana commitments or job-must-return clauses. Ghanaian students have won these awards; for instance, Nottingham University’s data shows many Ghanaian scholars on Chevening and Commonwealth awardsmyjoyonline.com. We’ll give tips on preparing applications later.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Scholarships in Ghana

Securing a scholarship is a process. Follow these steps to improve your chances:

1. Research Early and Identify Suitable Scholarships.

• Start one year in advance (for undergraduate) or at least 6–12 months before your intended study (for postgraduate). Use multiple sources: official sites (GETFund, Ghana Scholarship Secretariat, university bursary pages), educational hubs, and reliable aggregator sites. Also, talk to school counselors, professors, or alumni networks. Keep a spreadsheet of deadlines, eligibility criteria, and required documents. Because opportunities may arise anytime (e.g. a new corporate scholarship announced), check news portals and even social media pages like GETFund’s Twitter or GNPC Foundation’s LinkedInadomonline.comgnpcghana.com.

• Filter by level and field: Separate undergraduate vs postgraduate, and local vs abroad. Some scholarships target specific fields (medicine, engineering, agriculture, etc.). For example, if you are a health sciences student, look for Ghana Health Service or pharmaceutical industry awards. If you plan to study outside Ghana, check both Ghanaian government scholarships (like GETFund Foreign) and foreign governments’ programs (Chevening etc).

2. Check Eligibility Thoroughly.

• Read all requirements in detail. Note age limits, nationality, academic grades, program of study, and intended study location. For instance, the GNPC scholarship explicitly requires certain WASSCE grades for first-degree applicantsgnpcghana.com. Some programs demand admission letters first (common with Chevening and Commonwealth), while others (like GETFund local) just need exam results and transcripts.

• Beware of scams or unofficial agents. Legitimate Ghana programs (GETFund, GNPC) do not charge fees. As one news piece confirms, GETFund does not charge for scholarship applicationsadomonline.com – watch out for anyone requesting payment. Always use official portals (e.g. GETFund’s scholarship portal) or contact official emails.

3. Prepare Required Documents.

• Academic transcripts and certificates (WASSCE, HND results, university transcripts).

• Admission letter (for foreign scholarships, you usually need one from an accredited university abroad; apply to universities early).

• Personal statement/essay: Many scholarships require a written essay or project proposal. This is your chance to showcase goals and passion. Craft a clear, genuine statement of why you need the scholarship and how you’ll use it to contribute to Ghana.

• Letters of Recommendation: Get 2–3 referees (teachers, lecturers, employers) lined up well before deadlines. Provide them with your CV and a short summary of your goals so their letters are strong.

• Other materials: Some programs want CVs, research proposals (for PhD), or special forms. For example, GNPC foreign scholarships require a CV and letters for each applicantgnpcghana.com. Chevening requires a specific style of leadership essays (review their guidance).

• Keep everything professional: type your documents, sign where needed, and ensure official stamps if required. Make copies of everything to keep in a folder.

4. Apply Carefully and Before Deadlines.

• Fill forms meticulously. Double-check all fields. For online portals, complete every section and upload legible scans. Late or incomplete applications are usually rejected.

• Meet deadlines: Mark calendars with all application closing dates. For example, in late 2024, GETFund local postgraduate application deadline was Dec 15. International scholarships like Chevening typically have fixed yearly windows (e.g. Sept-Nov).

• Submit early if possible. This shows initiative and avoids last-minute tech glitches. After submission, note any reference number or confirmation email.

5. Prepare for Interviews (if required).

• Some top scholarships (Chevening, GNPC foreign, Mastercard) have interviews. Practice speaking about your goals and why you deserve the scholarship. Highlight leadership experiences and clarity of purpose. Interview tips: dress formally, arrive early, and be honest.

6. Follow Up and Stay Informed.

• After applying, track the status. GETFund sends updates via the portal, and Chevening sends email notifications. If a shortlist is announced, attend promptly. If you’re waitlisted or deferred, ask politely if any further info is needed.

• Even if one application fails, don’t be discouraged. Many students apply to multiple scholarships simultaneously. Learn from each attempt (maybe ask for feedback if possible).

Tips to Maximize Your Scholarship Chances

• Apply Widely: Don’t limit yourself to one program. The Nottingham University example shows Ghanaian students winning multiple scholarship types (institutional, Chevening, Commonwealth, GETFund)myjoyonline.com. If eligible, apply for both local and foreign awards.

• Highlight Achievements and Community Work: Many scholarships, especially international ones, look for leadership or service. Mention any volunteer work, clubs, or projects (like tutoring or community health outreach). This can set you apart from other high-grade applicants.

• Focus on STEM and Priority Fields: Ghana (and many scholarship bodies) often prioritizes Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, agriculture, or special needs fieldsgnpcghana.com. If your field is in high demand, emphasize how your studies will fill a local skill gap.

• Maintain Good Grades: Obviously, strong academics improve any application. But also take relevant extra courses or certifications to show dedication (e.g. online MOOCs, language proficiency, research projects).

• Seek Mentorship: Talk to past scholarship recipients if possible. University career services or alumni associations might have contacts. Their advice on essay writing or interview prep can be invaluable.

• Be Persistent: Getting a scholarship can take time. If one application fails, try again or find alternatives (like smaller grants or even education loans as backup). Each attempt sharpens your skills.

Overcoming Common Challenges

Securing a scholarship is competitive. Here are some obstacles and how to overcome them:

• Lack of Information: Many students miss deadlines due to poor publicity. Combat this by subscribing to education newsletters, joining student groups on social media, and regularly checking official sites (e.g. Ministry of Education, GETFund, or Ghanaian scholarship portals).

• Nepotism Concerns: In the past, scholarship awards in Ghana were sometimes influenced by politics. The new Ghana Scholarship Authority aims to fix thisadomonline.com. Until then, stick to official channels and ask for clarity on criteria. Merit-based awards (like university or foreign scholarships) are generally fair.

• Financial Constraints in Applying: Even applying may have costs (exam fees, postage, travel for interviews). Plan ahead: use cyber cafes for cheap internet, apply together with friends to share travel costs, or contact scholarship bodies for fee waivers. Some programs sponsor travel for winners.

• Visa and Study Abroad Logistics: For foreign scholarships, immigration procedures can be hurdles. Start visa paperwork early. Get support from the awarding body; many have staff or partners to help scholars obtain visas, book flights, and arrange housing. (The Nottingham students’ event invited applicants to learn about support availablemyjoyonline.com.)

By preparing early and staying informed, Ghanaian students can overcome these barriers. Remember that persistence, thorough research, and excellent application materials are your best tools.

Conclusion

Securing a scholarship in Ghana requires diligence, planning, and a proactive mindset. By exploring all avenues – government programs like GETFund and the new Scholarship Authority, university and corporate awards, and international fellowships – Ghanaian students can find funding for both undergraduate and graduate studies. Following a step-by-step approach to research, preparation, and application will improve your chances. As the University of Nottingham example shows, Ghanaian students have landed awards from UK universities and government schemes, unlocking over GH₵6.3 million in scholarships in one intakemyjoyonline.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I secure a scholarship?

Securing a scholarship involves researching available opportunities, meeting eligibility criteria, preparing strong application documents (like essays and recommendation letters), and submitting applications before deadlines. Focus on scholarships aligned with your academic level and field, maintain good grades, and highlight your achievements and community involvement.

Which organization gives scholarships in Ghana?

Scholarships in Ghana are offered by multiple organizations including government bodies like GETFund, private foundations such as GNPC Foundation, NGOs like the Mastercard Foundation, universities themselves, and international bodies offering awards such as Chevening and Fulbright.

How to write a letter for scholarship in Ghana?

A scholarship letter should be formal, concise, and persuasive. Start by addressing the scholarship committee, introduce yourself, state the scholarship you are applying for, explain your academic achievements, financial need, and future goals, and conclude by thanking the committee for considering your application.

Is MTN offering scholarships?

MTN Ghana has historically offered scholarships and corporate social responsibility initiatives supporting education. However, scholarship availability can vary by year. Interested students should check MTN Ghana’s official website or contact their corporate affairs office for current programs and application details.

How to begin a scholarship?

Begin by identifying scholarships that match your academic level and field of study. Research their requirements and deadlines, prepare your documents (transcripts, letters, essays), and organize a timeline to submit applications on time. Seek guidance from counselors or mentors to improve your application quality.

How to get 100% scholarship?

To secure a 100% scholarship, focus on highly competitive, fully funded programs such as government scholarships, international awards (e.g., Chevening, Fulbright), or large private foundation scholarships. Maintain excellent academic records, demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and meet all eligibility requirements carefully.

How do you write a convincing letter for a scholarship?

Write a convincing scholarship letter by clearly stating your purpose, emphasizing your achievements and goals, explaining your financial need, and showing how the scholarship will help you contribute to your community or field. Be honest, clear, and professional, and tailor the letter to the scholarship’s specific criteria.

What is the best sample of a scholarship application letter?

The best scholarship application letters are personalized, concise, and highlight the applicant's academic achievements, leadership, financial need, and career aspirations. They start with a polite introduction, followed by relevant experiences and goals, and conclude with gratitude for the committee’s consideration.

How to format a scholarship essay?

A scholarship essay should have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Use a formal but engaging tone, stick to the word limit, and address the prompt directly. Use paragraphs to separate ideas and proofread for clarity, grammar, and spelling errors.

How to write a CV for a scholarship application?

Write a scholarship CV by including personal details, education history, relevant work or volunteer experience, skills, achievements, and references. Keep it concise (1-2 pages), use bullet points for readability, and tailor it to highlight experiences relevant to the scholarship criteria.

How do you write a letter stating why you need a scholarship?

Explain your financial need clearly and respectfully. Describe your family and economic circumstances, any challenges faced, and how the scholarship will enable you to continue your education. Support your statements with specific examples and keep the tone sincere and positive.

How to write a 500 word scholarship essay?

To write a 500-word scholarship essay, plan your structure with a clear introduction stating your main message, 2-3 body paragraphs supporting your points with examples, and a concise conclusion summarizing your goals and gratitude. Focus on answering the prompt directly and use clear, concise language throughout.

Author: Fredash Education Hub – Team of education specialists and scholarship experts.