Scholarship Opportunities for Zambian Students (2025–2026): A Complete Guide

Pursuing higher education can be financially challenging, but numerous scholarships, bursaries, and grants are available to support Zambian students in 2025 and 2026. Whether you're applying to Mulungushi University, UNZA, CBU, or international institutions, this guide covers the best funding opportunities to help you achieve your academic goals.

1. Government Scholarships (Zambia)

a) Ministry of Higher Education Bursaries

• Eligibility: Zambian students with strong academic records (Grade 12 & tertiary).

• Coverage: Partial or full tuition fees for public universities.

• How to Apply: Through the Ministry’s website or university financial aid offices.

b) Higher Education Loans & Scholarships Board (HELSB)

• Provides loans and scholarships for undergraduate students.

• Priority Fields: Medicine, Engineering, Agriculture, and Education.

• Application: Online via HELSB Website.

2. University-Specific Scholarships

a) Mulungushi University Scholarships

• Merit-Based Awards: For top-performing students in each faculty.

• Sports & Leadership Scholarships: For talented athletes and student leaders.

• How to Apply: Check MU’s Financial Aid Office.

b) University of Zambia (UNZA) & Copperbelt University (CBU) Bursaries

• Need-based and academic excellence scholarships.

• External sponsors (e.g., mining companies, NGOs) often fund students.

3. International Scholarships for Zambians

a) Chevening Scholarships (UK)

• For: Master’s degree programs in the UK.

• Coverage: Full tuition, living allowance, flights.

• Deadline: November 2025 (for 2026 intake).

• Apply: Chevening Website.

b) Commonwealth Scholarships (UK, Canada, Australia)

• Funded by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.

• Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with distinction.

• Fields: STEM, Public Health, Climate Change.

• Apply via: Ministry of Education Zambia.

c) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

• Available at African universities (e.g., UCAD, Makerere).

• Covers tuition, accommodation, and stipends.

• Apply: Mastercard Foundation.

d) DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

• For undergraduate, master’s, and PhD studies.

• Focus on Engineering, Agriculture, and Development Studies.

• Deadline: Varies (check DAAD Zambia).

4. Corporate & NGO Scholarships

a) ZCAS University Scholarships

• For accounting, business, and ICT students.

• Sponsored by Zambia Institute of Chartered Accountants (ZICA).

b) First Quantum Minerals (FQM) & Mopani Copper Mines Bursaries

• For students in Mining, Engineering, and Environmental Sciences.

• Requires commitment to work with the company after graduation.

c) Barclays/Zanaco Tertiary Scholarships

• Supports students in Finance, Economics, and Business.

• Application: Via bank’s CSR programs.

d) USAID & World Bank Scholarships

• For development-related fields (Public Health, Agriculture).

• Check USAID Zambia for updates.

5. How to Improve Your Scholarship Chances

✔ Start Early – Many deadlines are 6–12 months before studies.
✔ Meet All Requirements – Check eligibility (grades, field of study).
✔ Write a Strong Essay – Explain your goals and financial need.
✔ Get Recommendations – From teachers or employers.
✔ Apply to Multiple Scholarships – Increase your chances.

Final Tips

• Follow university websites and the Ministry of Education Zambia for updates.

• Beware of scholarship scams – Never pay to apply!

• Prepare certified copies of academic records, NRC, and recommendation letters.

Need Help Applying?

📞 Contact: Mulungushi University Financial Aid Office
📧 Email: finaid@mu.ac.zm
🌍 More Scholarships: www.scholarships.gov.zm

Don’t let finances stop your education—apply now! 🎓