The 2026 BD&SW Memorial Scholarship Program is now open to undergraduate students across Africa who are facing financial hardship but are determined to complete their education.
The scholarship is designed to provide targeted financial support to students who genuinely need assistance in order to remain enrolled and focused on their academic goals.
Established in memory of Berenice Douglas and Suzanne Williams, the BD&SW Scholarship supports students who are committed to building a stable future through education, even in the face of serious economic challenges.
About the BD&SW Scholarship Program
The scholarship is open to undergraduate students who meet the following criteria:
The BD&SW Scholarship Program prioritises access to education, financial inclusion, and student retention. Rather than offering a blanket award, the scholarship ensures that funds are applied directly to essential educational expenses such as tuition and approved school fees. This approach helps reduce the risk of dropout and allows students to concentrate fully on their studies.
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Eligibility for BD&SW Scholarship Program
- Currently enrolled in an accredited academic institution in Africa
- From financially disadvantaged backgrounds
- Demonstrate academic commitment and clear educational goals
- Local and international undergraduate students (additional requirements may apply for international applicants)
- First-year (100-level) students are eligible and are not required to submit CGPA documentation
Application Timeline
Applicants should take note of the key dates below:
- Application opens: January 1, 2026
- Application deadline: January 22, 2026
- Scholarship decision notification: on or before May 1, 2026
Early application is strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for document preparation.
How to Apply and Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit all required materials through the application portal. These include:
- Visit the official 2026 BD&SW Memorial Scholarship Program
- Proof of enrolment in a current undergraduate programme
- Academic transcript or stamped CGPA statement (except for 100-level students)
- Two letters of recommendation
- A personal essay (maximum of two pages)
- Any additional documents requested in the application portal
- School fee and institutional account information
Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
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Personal Essay Guidelines
The personal essay is a critical part of the application and must be written personally without the use of AI tools. Applicants are expected to clearly explain:
- Family background and financial situation
- Academic journey and challenges faced
- How time is spent outside school, including work or volunteer activities
- Educational and career aspirations
- Personal experiences that demonstrate resilience and character
Authenticity and clarity are essential, as the essay helps reviewers understand the applicant beyond academic records.
Letters of Recommendation
Two recommendation letters are required and should come from individuals who know the applicant well, such as:
- Teachers or lecturers
- Clergy members
- Employers or volunteer supervisors
- Community or organisational leaders
Letters should reflect the applicant’s character, academic discipline, financial circumstances, and personal development.
How Scholarship Funds Are Used
Scholarship funds must be applied directly to approved educational expenses. Recipients will be required to confirm their academic institution, showing that the funds were used appropriately. This ensures transparency and accountability throughout the scholarship process.
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