The United States has been a top recipient country for foreign scholarships among African students for years.
More than 56,000 African students attended U.S. universities in 2024 alone, and more than 36,000 of them were studying for graduate-level degrees at institutions across the country.
But that is changing. With cuts in funding, shifts in policy, and a decreasing ability to support international students, numerous U.S. universities have started to pull back on graduate scholarship offers. In a few instances, students have had their admissions revoked completely—after they were offered a spot and funded.
For graduate students who rely on outside scholarships or full support, especially those from low- and middle-income countries, this trend is alarming. With fewer financial guarantees, longer visa processing times, and fewer opportunities, the U.S. is no longer the default destination it once was.
So, where are students to look in 2025? In this article, we explore the top countries not only welcoming graduate students but also offering financial assistance, post-study work visas, and globally acclaimed academic programs.
Why the U.S. Is No Longer a Viable Choice
The decline of the U.S. as a graduate school destination of choice isn’t anecdotal—it’s the result of compounding structural changes in the country’s higher education system.
The majority of public universities, which previously relied on state subsidy, are experiencing budget shortfalls. As a result, graduate programs are reducing the number of funded positions that can be offered, especially to foreign students. Such desired awards as Fulbright, institutional research grants, and departmental assistantships have been made subject to increased controls and reduced quotas.
In some cases, international students whose admission offers including scholarships have been withdrawn weeks ahead of visa interviews or travel. Universities explain such cuts in terms of rising operational costs, withdrawal of donors, and a need to prioritize money for domestic student assistance.
In addition, obtaining a U.S. student visa is no longer as simple as it once was. Longer processing times, increased scrutiny, and political turmoil have made the application process more stressful—and less predictable.
While the U.S. still offers world-class education, the mounting financial and logistical hurdles have led many students to reconsider their plans, especially when other countries are gearing up with more transparent pathways and bountiful incentives.
6 Simple Tips to Boost Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
Top 5 Alternative Countries To Pursue Graduate Studies
1. Canada
Canada has become a top destination for international graduate students thanks to lucrative scholarships, a stable immigration system, and world-class institutions.
Scholarships like the Vanier CGS and Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) sponsor both Master’s and PhD students.
Post-study work visas (of up to 3 years) offer a clear path to permanent residency.
Top universities in Canada like University of Toronto, McGill, UBC also offer graduate opportunities and several funding opportunities for students from around the world
Canada is good alternative to the United States because of the following:
- Easier funding
- Friendly visa regime
- And more post-grad work rights than the United States.
2. Germany
Germany offers free or low tuition at public universities—yes, even for international students.
There are many Master’s programs taught in English, especially in STEM fields.
DAAD scholarships and university-specific funding for graduate students.
Good research output and collaboration with international industries.
Why Germany a good alternative;
- No/low tuition,
- High quality of education, and generous research funding.
3. United Kingdom
Despite higher tuition, the UK remains competitive due to shorter program durations and elite scholarships.
Chevening Scholarships and Commonwealth Shared Scholarships fully fund graduate study.
One-year Master’s programs save time and money.
The Graduate Route visa offers two years of post-study work.
The UK’s Elite universities, fast-tracked programs, and post-grad work opportunities are also some of the reasons why it is a viable alternative to the United States.
4. Australia
Australia invests heavily in graduate education and has favorable post-study policies.
Fully covered tuition and living costs under scholarships like Australia Awards and Research Training Program (RTP) allow foreign students to live and work in the country.
Australia also issues a 2–4 year post-study work visas based on location and degree level.
Other reasons why Australia is a good alternative study abroad destination include:
- Good academic reputation in public health, engineering, and social sciences.
- Funded research positions,
- Fantastic visa support, and growing African student population.
5. Netherlands
The Netherlands is another popular and attractive study destination for prospective students coming from Africa. The country is attracting more graduate students with its low fees and a large number of English-taught programs.
Netherlands also boast of world-class universities like TU Delft, Leiden, and Utrecht.
There are several scholarships in Netherlands to support your studies including the NL Scholarship, Erasmus+, and other institutional scholarships.
Non-EU students can work part-time and stay for a year after graduation to seek work.
Low cost tuition fee and living expenses, English-speaking, and international grad-friendly are some of the reasons Netherlands is a fantastic alternative to the US.
Finally, while the doors of the U.S. may be closing for international students, for the determined graduate student, there are several other options to explore.