The fully funded short courses with scholarships in 2025 are closing soon, and slots are extremely limited. Many programs are open to high school graduates, vocational learners, and early-career professionals, so you don’t need a degree to apply.
Pro Tip: While applying, explore other scholarships, grants, and remote job opportunities to maximize learning and income potential See Other Opportunities.
Why Short Courses Are a Smart Opportunity
- Fast Completion: Usually 1–6 months, meaning you can start working or applying for jobs faster
- Fully Funded: Scholarships often cover tuition, materials, and sometimes travel or living support
- Global Exposure: Learn from top universities or platforms without relocating
- Career Growth: Short courses improve your CV and can lead to remote jobs or internships
Some of these courses also qualify for grants or scholarships in Europe or Canada See Scholarships.
Eligibility — Beginner-Friendly
- Citizenship: Open to African and international applicants
- Education: High school graduates, current students, or non-graduates
- Experience: Not required; emphasis on motivation and interest
- Language: Most courses are in English; some offer beginner-friendly tracks
Tip: If you’re a non-graduate, highlight online projects, volunteer experience, or self-taught skills to stand out.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
1. Identify Available Short Courses
- Coursera Scholarships: Partnered universities offer fully funded programs
- edX MicroMasters: Full scholarships for African applicants
- FutureLearn Short Courses: Some offer tuition waivers and certificates
- UN Online Courses: Fully funded professional and vocational programs
📌 Check Short Courses Availability
2. Prepare Your Application
- Passport or ID
- CV / Resume
- Personal statement / motivation letter
- Certificates or prior course records (if any)
💡 Tip: Beginners should emphasize curiosity, initiative, and community impact.
3. Submit Applications Online
- Apply directly on official platforms to avoid scams
- Deadlines are strict — some programs close within 7–14 days
- Upload all documents and essays carefully
📌 Submit Short Course Application
4. Write Strong Motivation Letters
- Explain why you chose the course
- Highlight goals and potential impact on your community or career
- Include previous volunteer work, online projects, or personal achievements
Motivation letters can also enhance applications for full university scholarships See Free Universities in Europe.
5. Track Deadlines & Follow-Up
- Set calendar alerts for submission dates
- Some platforms require short interviews or assessments
- Early submissions have better chances
Combine these short courses with remote jobs paying in USD for experience and income See Remote Jobs.
Top Fully Funded Short Courses for Africans in 2025
1. Coursera Global Scholarships
- Deadline: Rolling, but many slots close in September 2025
- Eligibility: Open to beginners and undergraduates
- Coverage: Tuition-free, certificate included
- Action: Apply through Coursera Scholarship Portal
2. edX MicroMasters & Professional Certificates
- Deadline: October 1, 2025
- Eligibility: Beginners, high school graduates, early-career professionals
- Coverage: Tuition-free, certification from top universities
- Apply Now: Through edX Financial Assistance Portal
Many edX graduates later apply for full university scholarships or grants abroad See Scholarships & Grants.
3. FutureLearn Short Courses
- Deadline: October 15, 2025
- Eligibility: Open globally, beginner-friendly
- Coverage: Tuition-free, some courses include mentoring
- Apply: Via FutureLearn Scholarships Page
4. UN Online Courses
- Deadline: September 30, 2025
- Eligibility: Vocational learners, high school graduates, early-career professionals
- Coverage: Free tuition, certificate of completion, sometimes travel grants
- Action: Apply through UN Online Learning Portal
Some UN courses link directly to youth empowerment grants or internships See Grants & Funding.
5. Other Platforms
- Alison Free Courses: Scholarships for advanced certificates
- OpenLearn by Open University: Free courses with optional certificates
- MIT OpenCourseWare: Access to professional-level courses
Completing these courses boosts your chance for visa-sponsored jobs or scholarships abroad See Jobs & Immigration Opportunities.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
- Apply as early as possible
- Emphasize motivation, self-learning, and community impact
- Combine with other scholarships, grants, or remote jobs for career advantage
- Use cross-link strategies to explore more opportunities while staying on your site
Don’t Miss Out
These fully funded short courses are closing fast and slots are limited. Acting now ensures your chance to gain valuable skills, certification, and career opportunities, even as a beginner or non-graduate.
📌 Apply for Short Courses Scholarships Now
📌 See All Urgent Scholarships & Opportunities
📌 Check Grants, Jobs, and Other Scholarships
⏳ Apply today, opportunities are ending soon!