Finding Scholarships for College Students in Kenya

I'm trying to gather information about scholarships available for college students in Kenya. Are there specific programs or organizations I should look into? Any tips on how to apply would be super helpful.

Scholarships come in different shapes and sizes and can be quite diverse. As a Kenyan student, depending on your intended field of study, undergrad or postgrad level, you might apply to both local and international programs. Here are a few to get you started:

1. The African Leadership University (ALU) Global Scholars Program: ALU offers the Africa Global Leader Scholarship to empower high-potential African students. The initiative is focused on providing quality education to those who need it the most.

2. Mo Ibrahim Foundation scholarships: The Mo Ibrahim Foundation offers scholarships to African students to foster good governance and leadership in Africa. The scholarships are available for a range of disciplines at various universities worldwide.

3. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program: This program provides academically talented young Africans with financial, social, and academic support. It's available for students keen on studies in USA, Canada & Africa.

4. The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program: This program provides scholarships to students from developing countries who have no other means of financing their studies.

You might find it fun to explore platforms like ScholarshipPortal and Appily (formerly known as Cappex), which have filters for continent, country, and study level. They can potentially expose you to a broader range of options that you might not otherwise discover.

To increase your chances of receiving a scholarship:

- Understand the eligibility criteria: Before applying, thoroughly read the scholarship requirements to ensure that you qualify. Only apply to scholarships where you meet all the criteria.

- Stand out: Your application should highlight your strengths. Include all your relevant achievements and experiences.

- Write a compelling statement: Your personal statement or essay greatly impacts your chances. Be clear about why you're applying and ensure your passion and determination shine through. Recount unique experiences or challenges that provide a better understanding of who you are.

- Start early: Lastly, start your application process early and apply to as many scholarships as you can. Deadlines for scholarship applications can be earlier than college application deadlines, so you need to plan accordingly.

Remember, applying for scholarships is similar to college applications. It requires time, patience, and dedication, but it can really pay off in the end. Good luck!