The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship Program 2025: Fully Funded Education for Egypt’s Future Leaders
Introduction
Higher education has the power to change lives, unlock potential, and inspire progress. Yet, for many bright and ambitious students, financial constraints can put world-class education out of reach. That’s where the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship Program comes in. Launched with a vision to empower Egypt’s most promising youth, this fully funded scholarship provides a transformative pathway to undergraduate and graduate studies at some of the most prestigious universities in the United States.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of the 2025 program—from eligibility and benefits to application strategies and success stories.
About the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship Program
Established in 2000 by Orascom Construction, the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship Program was created to invest in Egypt’s next generation of leaders. Named after business pioneer Onsi Sawiris, the program embodies values of academic excellence, social responsibility, and impactful leadership.
This isn’t just a scholarship—it’s a long-term investment in Egypt’s future changemakers.
Key Benefits
The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship is fully funded, covering all major costs associated with studying abroad:
- Full tuition at leading U.S. universities
- Monthly living allowance (housing, food, and transportation)
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Round-trip airfare between Egypt and the U.S.
- Books and educational supplies
- Access to a powerful alumni network and global mentorship opportunities
Eligibility Criteria (2025)
Undergraduate Applicants Must:
- Be Egyptian citizens residing in Egypt
- Demonstrate exceptional academic achievement (minimum 95% GPA or equivalent)
- Attain a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 100 or IELTS 7.0+
- Show strong leadership skills and active community involvement
- Commit to returning to Egypt after graduation
Graduate Applicants Must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from a reputable institution
- Have a GPA of at least 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale)
- Possess 2+ years of relevant professional experience (preferred)
- Score a minimum of 650 on the GMAT or equivalent on the GRE
- Demonstrate English language proficiency
- Articulate a clear career vision and leadership potential
Eligible Fields of Study
The program focuses on disciplines critical to Egypt’s development, including:
- Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, etc.)
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Political Science
- Environmental Studies
- Public Policy
- Data Science & Technology
Top U.S. Partner Universities
Scholars are placed at elite universities based on merit and fit. Previous recipients have attended:
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
- Create an Online Profile
Register through the official Orascom Construction scholarship portal. - Prepare and Upload Required Documents
- Academic transcripts
- Standardized test scores (TOEFL, GMAT/GRE)
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement and career goals essay
- Interview Rounds
Shortlisted candidates undergo multiple interviews to assess leadership, communication, and alignment with the program’s mission. - University Applications
Finalists apply to U.S. partner institutions with support from the scholarship team. - Final Selection
Scholarships are awarded upon university admission confirmation.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Write a personal statement that clearly outlines your vision, motivations, and leadership journey.
- Demonstrate real impact through volunteering, social initiatives, or entrepreneurial projects.
- Secure strong recommendation letters from mentors who truly know your strengths.
- Emphasize measurable achievements over general responsibilities.
- Practice your interview skills—your passion and communication are just as important as your resume.
What Sets This Scholarship Apart
The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship is unique for several reasons:
Success Stories: The Impact in Action
Graduates of the program have gone on to become influential figures in Egypt and beyond. From policy advisors and social entrepreneurs to engineers and tech innovators, alumni now serve in institutions like Google, UNDP, Egyptian ministries, and multinational corporations—driving progress from within
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can high school seniors apply?
A: Yes, students in their final year of high school are eligible, provided they will graduate before the program begins.
Q: Is there an age limit?
A: There is no formal age limit, though preference is given to recent graduates.
Q: What if I haven’t received my test scores yet?
A: You can apply provisionally, but final decisions will require all documents.
Q: Do graduate applicants need work experience?
A: It’s not mandatory, but relevant experience significantly strengthens your candidacy.
Final Thoughts
The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship Program is not just about studying abroad—it’s about unlocking potential, building leadership, and giving back to your country. If you’re an ambitious Egyptian student with a stellar academic record, leadership qualities, and a deep-rooted desire to contribute to Egypt’s progress, this opportunity could be the life-changing chapter you’ve been waiting for.