Why Dakar families look for international school scholarships

Dakar is a regional hub with several French, American and international schools serving both expats and local families. Fees can be significant, so scholarships, bursaries and concessions are important in widening access.

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1. Types of scholarships and concessions

• Academic merit scholarships – awarded for strong results in French, IB or international curricula.
• Needs‑based bursaries – fee relief for families with limited financial capacity.
• Sibling and staff discounts – reductions for families with more than one child enrolled and for school employees.

Examples of Senegalese schools with scholarship programmes

• Prominent international schools in Dakar typically offer:
  • Academic and bursary schemes in the 10–40% range.
  • Case‑by‑case concessions for families facing economic challenges.

Because policies change over time, families should always check the latest information directly with each school.

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2. Typical percentage of fees covered

Indicative ranges:

• Academic scholarships: 10–40% of tuition.
• Bursaries / concessions: often 15–40%, depending on financial need and school resources.

Full‑fee scholarships are rare and generally linked to specific access programmes.

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3. Eligibility and competition

Schools generally assess:

• Academic performance and potential.
• Behaviour, attendance and participation in school life.
• For bursaries: evidence of financial need.

Scholarship funds are limited, so competition can be strong, especially in well‑known Dakar schools.

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4. Application process and timing

Typical steps:

1. Shortlist schools that mention scholarships, bursaries or concessions on their websites.
2. Gather report cards, exam results and references.
3. For bursaries, prepare income and expense documentation.
4. Submit applications before deadlines, usually one or two terms before the new school year.

Planning 6–12 months in advance gives families more options.

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5. Duration and renewal

• Most awards run for one academic year, with renewal based on grades, conduct and continued financial need.
• Some schools may adjust the level of discount if circumstances change.

Always confirm whether the scholarship applies to tuition only or also to other required fees.

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How Tutopiya supports families in Senegal

Tutopiya helps students in Dakar and beyond by:

• Supporting learning in French and international curricula, including maths and sciences in English.
• Providing online 1‑to‑1 tutoring that complements classroom teaching.
• Helping families connect school scholarships with future university opportunities abroad.

If your child is aiming for an international school scholarship in Dakar, Tutopiya can help them build the academic foundation and exam skills that schools value.