APPLY NOW: BD&SW Memorial Scholarship for African Undergraduates 2026
The 2026 BD&SW Memorial Scholarship Program is now open to undergraduate students across Africa who are experiencing financial hardship but remain committed to completing their education.
The scholarship is administered in partnership with relevant stakeholders and is designed to provide targeted financial assistance to students who need it most.
Established in memory of Berenice Douglas and Suzanne Williams, the BD&SW Scholarship Program supports resilient students who are determined to build a stable future through education despite economic challenges.
About the BD&SW Scholarship Program
The BD&SW Scholarship Program is centered on educational access, financial inclusion, and student retention. Rather than offering a uniform award, the program ensures that scholarship funds are applied directly to essential educational expenses, including tuition and approved school fees.
This targeted approach helps students remain enrolled, reduces the risk of dropping out, and allows recipients to focus fully on their academic pursuits.
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Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
The scholarship is open to:
- Undergraduate students currently enrolled in an accredited academic institution in Africa
- Students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds
- Applicants who demonstrate academic commitment and clearly defined educational goals
- Local and international undergraduate students (additional requirements may apply for international applicants)
First-year (100-level) students are encouraged to apply and are not required to submit CGPA documentation.
Application Timeline
- Application Opens: January 1, 2026
- Application Deadline: January 22, 2026
- Notification of Decisions: On or before May 1, 2026
Early application is strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for document preparation.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Proof of enrollment in a current undergraduate program
- Academic transcript or stamped CGPA statement (except for 100-level students)
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- A personal essay (maximum of two pages)
- Any additional documentation requested on the application portal
- School fee and institutional account details at the time of application
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
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Personal Essay Guidelines
The personal essay is a critical component of the application and must be written entirely by the applicant. The use of AI tools is strictly prohibited.
The essay should clearly address:
- Family background and current financial circumstances
- Academic journey and challenges encountered
- How time is spent outside school (work, volunteering, or caregiving)
- Educational and career aspirations
- Personal experiences that demonstrate resilience, character, and growth
Authenticity, clarity, and honesty are essential, as the essay helps reviewers understand the applicant beyond academic records.
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Letters of Recommendation
Applicants are required to submit two Letters of Recommendation from individuals familiar with their academic performance, character, and personal circumstances. Suitable referees may include:
- Teachers or lecturers
- Clergy members
- Employers or volunteer supervisors
- Community or organizational leaders
Letters should provide insight into the applicant’s academic discipline, integrity, financial need, and personal development.
Use of Scholarship Funds
Scholarship funds must be used exclusively for approved educational expenses, such as tuition and official school fees. Recipients will be required to submit confirmation from their academic institution verifying proper use of the funds.
This process ensures transparency, accountability, and effective utilization of scholarship resources.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the 2026 BD&SW Scholarship Program? It is a financial assistance initiative supporting undergraduate students in Africa who face economic challenges and need help completing their education.
- Is the scholarship fully funded? The scholarship provides education-focused financial support. Award amounts vary and must be used strictly for tuition and approved fees.
- Can international students apply? Yes. International undergraduate students are eligible, although additional requirements may apply.
- Are first-year students eligible? Yes. First-year (100-level) students may apply and are exempt from CGPA submission.
- How many recommendation letters are required? Two letters from individuals who can credibly speak to the applicant’s academic ability, character, and financial situation.
- Is AI allowed for the personal essay? No. The use of AI or automated tools in drafting the essay is strictly prohibited.
- What happens if my application is incomplete? Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
- When will applicants be notified? All applicants will be informed of their scholarship status by May 1, 2026.
- How are scholarship funds disbursed? Funds are applied directly to educational expenses and verified by the recipient’s institution.
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Why This Scholarship Matters
For many students across Africa, financial hardship remains the greatest barrier to completing higher education. The BD&SW Scholarship Program helps bridge this gap by ensuring that capable and motivated students are not forced to abandon their academic dreams due to economic constraints.
More than financial aid, the BD&SW Scholarship is an investment in human potential, resilience, and long-term educational success.
