Fully Funded Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship for MSc in Development Policy and Politics 2025

Overview of The MSc in Development Policy and Politics (with Mo Ibrahim Foundation Internship) 2025

The University of Birmingham, in collaboration with the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, presents an exceptional two-year MSc in Development Policy and Politics. Tailored for aspiring African leaders, this fully funded program integrates rigorous academic coursework with a hands-on, six-month internship at the Mo Ibrahim Foundation in London. Participants will engage deeply with governance, policy analysis, and political dynamics to drive sustainable development across the continent.

Who is Eligible to Apply for The MSc in Development Policy and Politics (with Mo Ibrahim Foundation Internship) 2025?

To be considered, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a first-class Honors degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline.
• Be under 30 years of age at the time of application.
• Demonstrate proficiency in English (minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL score of 580/93).
• Be an African national domiciled or permanently residing in an African country (preference for Sub-Saharan Africa residents).

Fields of Study Covered

The programme draws on interdisciplinary fields, including:

• Social Policy
• Sociology
• Politics and International Relations
• Human Geography
• Development Studies
• Public Administration
• Anthropology
• Urban and Regional Planning

Universities Included in the Program

This MSc is exclusively offered by the University of Birmingham, recognized globally for its Department of International Development and commitment to excellence in policy research.

Selection Process for Applicants

The two-step selection process includes:

• Initial Expression of Interest: Complete the online "Register Your Interest" form to confirm basic eligibility.
• Full Application Review: Shortlisted candidates receive an invitation to submit a detailed application, including academic transcripts, references, and a personal statement. The Program Director evaluates submissions, and final selections are based on academic merit and leadership potential.

Documents Needed for Application

Applicants must prepare the following documents:

• Official academic transcripts
• Degree certificate (or proof of pending graduation)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Personal statement outlining career goals and leadership experience
• Two academic or professional references
• English language proficiency certificate (IELTS/TOEFL)
• Copy of passport or national ID

Eligibility by Country

Citizenship or permanent residency must be in an African nation. While all African countries are eligible, priority is given to candidates from Sub-Saharan Africa.

Benefits of The MSc in Development Policy and Politics (with Mo Ibrahim Foundation Internship) 2025

Scholarship benefits include:

• Full tuition coverage for two years
• Round-trip airfare to the UK and all visa fees
• Arrival allowance of £1,082 to assist with initial settling costs
• Monthly stipend of £1,592 for 18 months
• Internship funding provided by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation for six months
• Access to events like the Now Generation Forum and the Ibrahim Governance Weekend

Duration of the Scholarship

The scholarship spans two years:

Year 1: Full-time MSc coursework at the University of Birmingham

Year 2: Six months at the University and a six-month internship placement in London

Application Procedure

1. Visit the programme webpage and select "Register Your Interest".
2. Complete the eligibility form and upload initial documents.
3. Await invitation to apply in full, if shortlisted.
4. Submit comprehensive application by midnight, 12th May 2025 (UK time).
5. Successful candidates will be notified via email.

How to Apply for The MSc in Development Policy and Politics (with Mo Ibrahim Foundation Internship) 2025?

1. Navigate to the official University of Birmingham programme page.
2. Click on "Register Your Interest" and fill out your details.
3. Ensure all mandatory documents are ready for upload.
4. Monitor your email for the full application invitation.
5. Complete and submit your full application before the deadline.

Embark on a transformative journey to advance policy and governance across Africa. This scholarship not only equips you with world-class academic credentials but also provides invaluable professional experience within the Mo Ibrahim Foundation.

or contact them

The University of Birmingham

Edgbaston

Birmingham

B15 2TT

United Kingdom

To write to a member of staff, precede the address with their name and department.

Main Switchboard:

Tel: +44 (0)121 414 3344

Fax: +44 (0)121 414 3971