How to get a scholarship in Guinea?

Obtaining a scholarship for higher education in the Republic of Guinea may seem complex, but it doesn't necessarily have to be.

So, where should you start?

Applying for an Undergraduate Program at a Foreign University

If you are considering applying for an undergraduate program at a foreign university, it is essential to know the minimum score required for the baccalaureate. This minimum score is determined by the National Service for External Scholarships (SNABE) and can vary from year to year. However, having an average of at least 13/20 in the baccalaureate already gives you the opportunity to try your luck. Candidates with an average between 14/20 and 20/20 have a high probability of success.

Assuming you meet the average score requirement to participate in the competition, what would be the next step?

After achieving the required average, the next step is to go to SNABE, located in Conakry, Kaloum. You can contact them by phone at +224 623 09 23 23 or by email at contact@onabe.org to obtain an information sheet. They will guide you on how to prepare a dossier to be submitted at their office. Once you have gathered all the required documents as indicated on the information sheet, SNABE will assign you a dossier number, and you can then return home.

Common Mistakes to Avoid After Submitting Your Dossier:

Expecting Immediate Contact: It is important not to assume that you will be contacted as soon as a scholarship becomes available in Guinea. This is unlikely. You must stay informed by contacting the relevant people or checking SNABE’s information channels, including their Facebook and LinkedIn pages. Here are the links:

Facebook Page SNABE SNABE Facebook

LinkedIn Page SNABE SNABE LinkedIn

Remember to regularly follow these pages for the latest updates and information regarding your scholarship application.

Avoid Being Passive Throughout the Scholarship Process: It is crucial to diligently follow the steps that SNABE asks you to complete and to do so in a timely manner to maximize your chances of success.

Once you have submitted your dossier for a scholarship in a given country, you will need to wait for some time for the results. These results will generally be available in your personal account created during your application or with SNABE. Then, SNABE will contact you for the next steps. It is important to be responsive and follow their instructions as they will guide you through the process, including obtaining your plane ticket.

What About Scholarship Financing? Do You Need Financial Support?

Regarding scholarship financing, you do not need to be financially supported by anyone for study expenses once in the destination country. Study fees are fully covered, meaning you do not need to pay anything to attend classes. However, if your scholarship is complete, you will also receive an additional amount from your host country to cover some of your needs.

Moreover, the Guinean government grants monthly allowances, starting at $100 depending on the level. Given that the process of sending allowances, including purchasing return tickets, can sometimes encounter difficulties, it is essential to have financial support before your departure. It is highly recommended to purchase essential items such as computers, clothing, and others. It is also advisable to have a minimum fund of $1500 to cover expenses related to accommodation, residency permits, winter clothing, and especially health insurance, which can be costly at some universities.

The money you bring will also help cover your food needs until your situation is resolved by the Guinean government. Later in your studies, you can explore work opportunities to support yourself, although this may not always be possible. In case of insufficient scholarship funds, you can always seek assistance from the person supporting you financially.

Is It Necessary to Pay Money to Become a Scholar?

No, you do not need to pay money to become a scholar. The scholarship is awarded to any Guinean who meets the required criteria. If you have excellent academic results and are selected by the embassy of the country offering the scholarship, you will receive the scholarship.

However, it is important to note that some fees may be associated with the process, such as document validation fees, SNABE dossier processing fees, and medical fees that may be required during the procedure. These fees are separate from the scholarship itself and are generally related to administrative and medical formalities necessary for obtaining the scholarship.

When Are Scholarships Offered in Guinea, and When Should You Submit Your Dossiers?

I wish I could provide a precise date for all scholarships offered in Guinea, but unfortunately, there is no fixed schedule for Guinean scholarships. However, some clues can guide you:

Scholarships for the Russian Federation are generally awarded around January each year.

Scholarships for China are also frequently granted in January of each new year.

Scholarships for Malaysia are often available a bit earlier, around December.

Scholarships for Maghreb countries, such as Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, and Egypt, are often announced between May and June.

Other countries also offer scholarships to Guinea at unpredictable times, including Thailand, Indonesia, Turkey, etc.

To maximize your chances of not missing the best opportunities, I advise you to subscribe to this page and to the digital channels of the National Service for External Scholarships (SNABE).

Is It Mandatory to Return After Completing Your Studies?

No, currently it is not mandatory to return to Guinea after completing your studies. Unfortunately, the government has not yet managed to establish mechanisms to welcome Guinean scholars and offer them jobs. However, it is considering creating mechanisms in partner countries to facilitate the return of scholars to Guinea. This is currently the case with China.

Are Plane Tickets Free?

Yes, return plane tickets are covered by the government. However, it may take some time. In case of emergencies or short-term programs, you may need to buy your ticket yourself and request reimbursement later. It is important to note that this reimbursement process can take many months.

We hope this will change in the future.

What Documents Are Required to Apply for an Undergraduate Program?

The National Service for External Scholarships (SNABE) is best placed to specify the exact required documents, but generally, undergraduate application dossiers include the following items:

• Certified copies of the diploma and baccalaureate transcripts.

• Medical certificate and counter-visit.

• Passport-sized photo.

• A piece of identification or passport.

• Birth certificate.

• A handwritten application.

It is strongly recommended to check the specific requirements of the country or institution offering the scholarship, as they can vary from one scholarship to another. By contacting SNABE, you can obtain precise information on the documents needed for your undergraduate application.

Application for a Master’s or Doctorate Program at a Foreign University

The procedure is exactly the same as for the undergraduate application. However, the required documents differ. Additional documents such as a scientific report and others are necessary.

The scientific report is of utmost importance for master's or doctoral candidates. It is a document to take very seriously in order to optimize your chances of being selected. This document highlights your acquired skills and future project. Its preparation should be impeccable.

Do you have any other questions? Need additional advice or want assistance throughout your process?

Feel free to contact us. We will respond as soon as possible.

Simply fill out the form below.

Contact Us

Address:

Lansanayah Barrage, Matoto, Conakry Guinée

Just behind The Total Energie Filling Station

Contacts

+66620126143

+224 627 513 369 / 623 115 689

moustapha@cofizguinee.com