OYW AstraZeneca Scholarship 2026 South Africa (Fully Funded) – Closed

The application deadline for the AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellowship 2026 has passed, and the program cycle is now closed. This fully funded fellowship was designed for young leaders aged 18 to 30 who are passionate about advancing health equity, addressing climate change, and strengthening health systems. It included a scholarship to attend the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa, held from 3 to 6 November 2026.

The next cycle of the AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellowship is expected to open in early 2027, with applications likely starting in March 2027 and closing in April 2027. Prospective applicants should prepare by building their leadership experience in health equity, climate action, or health systems resilience and stay updated through the official One Young World website.

About the AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellowship 2026

This fellowship empowered emerging young leaders committed to creating measurable improvements in global health and environmental challenges. Fellows received full funding to attend the One Young World Summit, including travel, accommodation, meals, and local transportation. Additionally, selected fellows were awarded grants of USD $10,000 or USD $50,000 to support their projects.

Program Focus Areas

• Advance Health Equity: Focus on early prevention of non-communicable diseases and support for youth with rare diseases.
• Climate and Nature Action: Advocacy on the health impacts of climate change affecting young people.
• Health Systems Resilience: Strengthening health systems through early interventions to reduce future disease burdens.

Eligibility Criteria

• Aged 18 to 30 years at the time of the summit.
• Proficient in English.
• Open to applicants from all countries.
• Available to attend the summit in Cape Town in person.

Funding and Financial Benefits

The fellowship was fully funded, covering:

• Return airfare to Cape Town.
• Accommodation during the summit.
• Daily meals and local transport.
• Access to the full One Young World Summit program.
• Membership in the One Young World Ambassador Network and Young Health Programme Alumni group.
• A project grant of USD $10,000 or USD $50,000 for selected fellows.

How to Prepare for the Next Cycle

Although the 2026 fellowship cycle is closed, interested candidates should focus on strengthening their leadership skills and impact in relevant areas. Building a strong project proposal aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (health and well-being) and demonstrating measurable outcomes will improve your chances. Monitor the official One Young World scholarship page for updates on the 2027 application timeline.

Alternatives to the AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellowship

If you are seeking other fully funded scholarships or youth leadership programs focused on health equity, climate change, or global development, consider these options:

• One Young World Scholarships: Various corporate and foundation scholarships to attend the One Young World Summit.
• Global Health Leadership Fellowships: Programs offered by universities and NGOs focusing on health systems and policy.
• Climate Change Youth Grants: Funding opportunities for young advocates working on environmental health projects.

Tuition and Living Costs for Studying in South Africa

While the AstraZeneca fellowship covers summit participation costs, those considering extended study in South Africa should be aware of typical tuition and living expenses. Tuition fees vary widely depending on the institution and program. Living costs in Cape Town can include accommodation, food, transportation, and health insurance. Prospective students should research specific universities for accurate tuition fees and budget accordingly.

Funding Options for International Students

International students interested in health-related studies or leadership programs can explore multiple funding sources:

• Scholarships: Offered by universities, governments, and private organizations, including merit-based and need-based awards.
• Education Loans: Available from banks and financial institutions, sometimes with special terms for international students.
• Assistantships and Fellowships: Teaching or research positions that provide stipends or tuition waivers.
• Employer Sponsorship: Some organizations sponsor employees for further education in relevant fields.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellowship 2026 still accepting applications?
   The 2026 cycle is closed. The next cycle is expected to open in early 2027.
2. Who is eligible for the AstraZeneca fellowship?
   Young leaders aged 18-30 from any nationality with a commitment to health equity, climate action, or health systems resilience.
3. What costs does the fellowship cover?
   It fully covers travel, accommodation, meals, local transport, summit access, and provides a project grant.
4. How can I prepare for the next application?
   Build leadership experience, develop impactful projects aligned with SDG 3, and monitor official announcements.
5. Are there other scholarships like this?
   Yes, One Young World offers various scholarships, and other organizations provide funding for youth leadership in health and climate.
6. What are typical tuition fees and living costs in South Africa?
   Fees vary by institution; living costs include accommodation, food, transport, and insurance. Research specific programs for details.