University of Birmingham MSc Development Policy and Politics Scholarship 2026–27 (Mo Ibrahim Foundation Internship) — Fully Funded
- Omran Aburayya
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
If you are a young African graduate with a strong academic background in social sciences and a deep interest in governance, policy, and development, the applications are now open for the MSc Development Policy and Politics Scholarship 2026–27 at the University of Birmingham. This prestigious fully funded opportunity, supported by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, combines a world-class master’s degree with a unique international internship focused on governance and leadership in Africa.
🎓 Scholarship Summary
Location: Birmingham & London
Host Institution: University of Birmingham
Study Level: Master’s (MSc)
Target Group: African nationals residing in Africa (preference for Sub-Saharan Africa)
Field of Study: Development Policy and Politics
Value & Coverage: Fully funded (tuition, stipend, travel, internship funding)
Award Duration: 2 years (1-year MSc + 1-year internship)
Application Deadline: 24 April 2026 (full application stage)
Start Date: September 2026 (typical MSc intake)
Eligible To: Applicants under 30 years old with a First-Class degree
📚 Scholarship Overview
The MSc Development Policy and Politics (with Mo Ibrahim Foundation Internship) is a unique two-year programme designed to bridge academic learning with real-world policy experience.
The structure includes:
Year 1: Full-time MSc at the International Development Department (IDD)
Year 2 Internship:
6 months at IDD working on research projects with academics and the GSDRC
6 months at the Mo Ibrahim Foundation in London, contributing to initiatives focused on governance and leadership in Africa
Scholars also participate in high-level platforms such as the Ibrahim Forum, Governance Weekend, and the Now Generation Forum for emerging African leaders.
🧩 Curriculum Structure
Core Modules:
International Development
Development Policy and Politics
Dissertation (with possible overseas fieldwork)
Optional Focus Modules (choose one):
Governance for Development
Democracy, Dictatorship and Development
Electives:
A wide selection from the School of Government and other departments
The programme emphasizes political analysis, governance systems, and evidence-based policymaking, linking theory directly with practice.
🎁 Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship is fully funded and includes:
Full tuition fees
Round-trip airfare to and from the UK
Visa costs
Monthly stipend of £1,592 (for 18 months)
Arrival allowance of £1,082
Additional funding for the 6-month internship provided by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation
This financial support ensures scholars can fully focus on their studies, research, and professional development.
✅ Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, applicants must:
Be African nationals residing in an African country
Be under 30 years old at the time of application
Hold a First-Class Honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field
Have a strong academic background in areas such as:
Politics, International Relations, Development Studies
Sociology, Anthropology, Social Policy
Public Administration, Human Geography, Environmental Studies, and related disciplines
Demonstrate excellent English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL equivalent if required)
Show strong interest in governance, development policy, and leadership in Africa
Preference is given to applicants from Sub-Saharan Africa.
📝 Application Procedure
The application process is completed in two stages:
Stage 1: Pre-Application Screening
Submit the pre-application screening form as early as possible
Stage 2: Full Application
If shortlisted, you will receive an invitation to submit a full application
Complete and submit the full application before the deadline
📁 Required Documents
Academic transcripts and degree certificates
CV/Resume
Personal statement
Proof of English proficiency (if required)
Any additional supporting documents requested by the programme
ℹ️ Additional Information
This is a highly competitive scholarship with only one award available
The programme integrates academic excellence with practical policy exposure
Scholars gain access to influential networks in governance and development
The internship component provides direct experience in shaping African development initiatives
The University of Birmingham MSc Development Policy and Politics Scholarship offers a rare opportunity to combine rigorous academic training with hands-on policy work at one of Africa’s leading governance foundations. It is particularly suited for future leaders committed to transforming governance and development across the continent.
