Master’s Scholarships for Tanzanians (With Verified Official Links)
Finding the right funding to take your education to the next level can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. For many Tanzanian graduates, the dream of a Master’s degree abroad is often sidelined by the sheer cost of international tuition.
But here is the truth: millions of dollars in scholarship funding go unclaimed every year simply because students didn't know where to look or missed a deadline. I have put together this guide to bridge that gap. This isn't just a list of names; it’s a verified directory of the most prestigious, fully-funded Master’s scholarships specifically available to Tanzanians, complete with the official links you need to start your journey.
1. The Chevening Scholarship (UK)
Chevening is perhaps the most famous "leadership" scholarship in the world. Funded by the UK government, it covers everything—tuition, monthly living allowance, economy flights, and even the cost of your visa.
Best for: Future leaders and influencers with at least two years of work experience.
Status: Applications typically open in August and close in November annually.
Official Link:
Chevening Tanzania Portal
2. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships (UK)
Unlike the general Commonwealth awards, the "Shared" scheme is a partnership between the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission and specific UK universities. It targets students from developing countries who want to study subjects related to international development.
Best for: Students with an Upper Second Class (2:1) degree or higher.
Status: Usually opens in late September/October.
Official Link:
Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
3. DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships (Tanzania & Africa)
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a unique opportunity for Tanzanians to study at top-tier African institutions (like Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology - NM-AIST) or in Germany.
Best for: Those looking to build a career in academia or research within Sub-Saharan Africa.
Official Link:
DAAD Scholarship Database
4. Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary)
The Hungarian government has become a major partner for Tanzania, offering hundreds of slots for Master’s and PhD programs. It’s a full-ride scholarship including medical insurance and a housing allowance.
Pro Tip: You must apply through the Ministry of Education in Tanzania (National Nominating Agency) as well as the online portal.
Official Link:
Stipendium Hungaricum Apply
5. Türkiye Bursları (Turkey)
This scholarship is unique because it handles both your university placement and your funding in one application. It includes a year of free Turkish language prep, which is a massive bonus for your CV.
Status: Applications usually run from January 10th to February 20th.
Official Link:
Turkish Scholarships Official
6. The Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
If the United States is your dream destination, Fulbright is the gold standard. It’s highly competitive but focuses on cultural exchange and long-term impact.
Best for: Early-career professionals and faculty members.
Official Link:
US Embassy in Tanzania - Fulbright
7. Bank of Tanzania (BoT) - Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Scholarship
Don't ignore local opportunities! The Bank of Tanzania offers prestigious scholarships for Tanzanians to pursue Master's degrees in Mathematics, Science, Economics, and Finance at accredited Tanzanian universities.
Best for: High-achieving Tanzanians (GPA of 4.0 and above).
Official Link:
BoT Scholarship Page
How to Make Your Application Unbeatable
Having the link is only 10% of the battle. Here is how you win the other 90%:
Get Your Papers Ready Early: Don't wait for the window to open to certify your transcripts or renew your passport.
The "Why You?" Factor: Most of these boards aren't looking for the smartest student; they are looking for the student who will use their degree to change Tanzania. Write your essays with a "Development Goal" in mind.
The Reference Trap: Ask your professors for recommendation letters at least a month in advance. A rushed letter is a rejected application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I apply for a Master's scholarship without a passport? While some initial applications allow you to use a National ID (NIDA), most international scholarships require a valid passport for the final selection and visa processing. It is highly recommended to have one before you apply.
Is a First Class degree mandatory for these scholarships? No. While a high GPA (3.8+) is helpful, many programs like Chevening and Commonwealth look at leadership potential and work experience. An Upper Second Class (2:1) is usually the minimum requirement.
Do I need to pay a fee to apply for these scholarships? Never. Official government and international scholarships are free to apply for. If a website or "agent" asks for money to process your application, it is likely a scam. Always use the verified links provided above.
Where can I find HESLB Master's loans?
Master's funding through the Higher Education Students' Loans Board
(HESLB) is usually restricted to specific priority sectors (like
clinical medicine or science faculty). Check the
Final Thought
The journey to a Master’s degree especially with scholarship funding is challenging but possible. The key is credible sources and well-timed action. Bookmark this guide, follow the official links, and craft your applications with confidence. Your world-class education could begin sooner than you think!