A Guide to Scholarships for Ghanaian Students in 2024
Pursuing higher education is an important step for Ghanaian youth to grow their skills and capabilities. However, the costs involved often present a barrier, preventing many from actualizing their academic dreams. This is where scholarships come in – they provide crucial financial aid that enables bright Ghanaian students to access quality tertiary education.
This comprehensive guide covers the main scholarship programs available for Ghanaian students in 2024, both for studying locally and internationally. It provides insights into key opportunities at undergraduate and postgraduate level across fields of study.
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Local Scholarships in Ghana
Here are some major scholarships available for students looking to study at Ghanaian universities and tertiary institutions:
Ghana Scholarships Secretariat
Overview: The Secretariat offers a wide variety of national scholarships on behalf of the Ghanaian government at undergraduate, postgraduate and professional levels.
Eligibility:
- Ghanaian citizenship
- Strong academic background
- Enrolled or admitted at accredited university
- Field of study aligned to national priority
Application Process:
- Online application form when portal opens (usually May-June)
- Upload necessary documents like transcripts, referee reports etc.
- Review qualification and shortlisting
Funding Available
- Covers all or substantial tuition fees
- Provides book and research allowances
- Funding for 1-3 years of study
Over 2000 scholarships awarded annually.
Ghana Commercial Bank Scholarships
Overview: This program funds high-achieving, disadvantaged students pursuing first degrees at public universities in Ghana.
Eligibility Criteria
- Ghanaian citizenship
- Admitted to public university
- Demonstrated financial need
- Minimum aggregate score of 24 at SSSCE
Application Methodology
- Online application form when program commences (typically July)
- Submit academic records, income statements etc.
- Shortlisted based on merit, finalized based on need
Scholarship Details
- Covers full tuition fees and accommodation
- Provides annual stipend for books and supplies
- Laptop and monthly internet bundle
Up to 100 new scholars selected annually.
Osei Tutu II Foundation Scholarships
Overview: Established by the Asantehene, these scholarships support high-performing Kumasi SHS students to pursue tertiary studies locally.
Eligibility
- Graduate of Kumasi SHS
- Minimum aggregate 15 at WASSCE
- First-class or second-upper grades at degree level
Application Process
- Submit handwritten application to Kumasi SHS
- Attach academic records, proof of university admission, referees
- Panel reviews and selects recipients
Funding Available
- Full tuition fees
- Book, computer and monthly upkeep allowances
University-Based Scholarships
Overview: Most accredited universities like KNUST, UG, UCC etc. offer scholarships to incoming students with strong academics.
Eligibility
- Newly admitted student to undergraduate or postgraduate program
- Meet university-specific merit criteria
Application Methodology
- Submit scholarship application during university admissions application
- Provide transcripts, test scores, and any supplemental essays/info required
Funding Provided
- Partial to full tuition waiver
- Assistance toward accommodation, books and supplies
International Scholarships
Here are some major overseas scholarship programs open to Ghanaian students for study abroad:
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Overview: Provides full scholarships to African students to pursue undergraduate degrees at select partner universities globally.
Eligibility:
- Be from Sub-Saharan Africa including Ghana
- Demonstrate financial need
- Have completed high school with strong grades
- Exhibit leadership qualities
Application Process
- Submit online application directly to Mastercard Foundation
- If shortlisted, apply separately to partner universities
Scholarship Includes
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Books and supplies stipend
- Travel costs
- Health insurance
Over 35,000 African students funded since program inception.
Commonwealth Scholarships
Overview: Awards funded by the UK government for pursuing graduate study and research at British universities.
Eligibility Criteria
- Be a Ghanaian citizen resident in Ghana
- Have completed undergraduate degree with strong grades
- Obtain admission offer from UK university for masters/PhD
Application Methodology
- Submit online application directly to Commonwealth Scholarship Commission
- Upload transcripts, references, research proposal and other documents
Scholarship Provides
- Return airfare to UK
- Tuition fees
- Stipend for living expenses
- Health insurance
- Research funding (for PhDs)
Up to 55 Ghanaian students receive these annually.
Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford
Overview: Highly selective scholarship for pursuing postgraduate study at the University of Oxford, UK.
Eligibility
- Ghanaian citizenship
- Completed or pursuing undergraduate degree with outstanding grades
- Obtain admission offer for postgraduate program at Oxford
Application Process
- Submit online application via Rhodes Trust website
- Referee reports, transcripts, personal statement required
- Multi-stage selection process including interview
Scholarship Offers
- Covers all tuition and fees
- Living stipend
- Travel costs
- Additional funding for research activities
Ford Foundation International Fellowships Program
Overview: Provides funding for postgraduate study abroad in Development Studies and related fields.
Eligibility
- Be a Ghanaian resident
- Hold first degree and seeking masters/PhD
- Strong academic background
- Commitment to expanding opportunities in Ghana
Application Methodology
- Submit online application directly to Ford Foundation
- Provide transcripts, CV, references and study proposal
- Undertake selection review and panel interview
Scholarship Benefits
- Tuition fees
- Living allowance
- Books and supplies
- Airfare
- Insurance coverage
Application Tips
- Start researching scholarship options 12 months before intended study period
- Prioritize reputable providers aligned with your academic focus
- Meticulously prepare all required application documents
- Follow instructions and meet deadlines
- Showcase academic merit, leadership skills and passion
Conclusion
In summary, Ghanaian students have access to a range of local and international scholarships to enable quality higher education. These provide funding ranging from partial tuition coverage to fully-funded opportunities globally. With diligent searching and high-quality, timely applications, scholarship support is within reach to power your educational and career advancement.
FAQs
What are the best websites to find scholarships for Ghana?
Some top scholarship search platforms for Ghanaians are: Scholarships in Africa, Scholars4Dev, After School Africa, Study Abroad Ghana, and the Ghana Scholarships Secretariat website.
When should I start applying for 2024 scholarships?
You should start your scholarship search 12-18 months before your intended program start date. Many application deadlines will occur 6-12 months in advance.
What documents do I need for scholarship applications?
Typical documents are: transcripts, CV, essays, letters of recommendation, passport photo, proof of university admission, financial need evidence, English proficiency scores.
Can I win multiple scholarships simultaneously?
Yes, you can win more than one scholarship. However, check if your providers have restrictions on holding concurrent awards.
How competitive are the top scholarships for Ghanaians?
Highly competitive – for programs like Mastercard and Commonwealth Scholarships, acceptance rates are often under 5% given limited slots. You need a strong profile and application.