Table of Contents
Are you an Egyptian student searching for the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship? This guide answers every question — from eligibility and benefits to how to apply, which universities are approved, and what it takes to win. Whether you are applying for the undergraduate or graduate track, this is the only resource you need. The application is currently open each year with an annual deadline in July.
Table of Contents
- What Is the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship?
- Who Founded It and Why It Exists
- What Does the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship Cover? (Full Benefits)
- Onsi Sawiris Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
- Undergraduate Track
- Graduate Track
- Approved Universities
- Eligible Fields of Study
- Undergraduate vs. Graduate Track: Side-by-Side Comparison
- Required Documents Checklist
- How to Apply for the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship (Step-by-Step)
- Selection Process and Timeline
- Tips to Win the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship
- What People Also Ask (Google PAA)
- Related Scholarships You Should Know
- Related Posts from LicensureHub
- Final Thoughts
What Is the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship?
The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship is a fully funded, merit-based scholarship program that sends Egyptian students to study at some of the most prestigious universities in the United States. The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship covers full tuition, living allowance, travel, health insurance, books, and a computer — making it one of the most comprehensive scholarships available to Egyptian nationals today.
The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship is currently open for applications each year, with the annual deadline falling at the end of July. Whether you are finishing high school or holding a bachelor’s degree, the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship has two tracks — undergraduate and graduate — designed to give exceptional Egyptians access to world-class education. If you have been searching for the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship, you are in exactly the right place.
Who Founded It and Why It Exists
The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship was launched in the year 2000 by Orascom Construction, one of Egypt’s most powerful engineering and infrastructure companies. It was created as part of the company’s commitment to investing in Egypt’s human capital and promoting academic excellence, entrepreneurial initiative, and national development.
The scholarship is named after Onsi Sawiris, the patriarch of the prominent Sawiris family — the driving force behind Orascom’s construction, telecom, and business empire. The initiative is also supported by the Sawiris Foundation for Social Development, underscoring the family’s deep commitment to Egypt’s next generation.
Since its launch, the program has financed the education of more than 99 extraordinary Egyptian men and women, placing them at some of the world’s top-ranked universities in the United States.
What Does the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship Cover?
This is a fully funded scholarship. Recipients do not pay a single dollar out of pocket for their academic journey. Here is a breakdown of everything the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship covers each year:
Full Benefits Package:
- Full tuition fees at the approved U.S. university
- Monthly living allowance
- Round-trip travel expenses
- Health insurance
- Books and computer allowance
- Optional internship position within Orascom Construction
This makes the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship one of the most financially complete awards available to Egyptian students, covering both academic and personal expenses throughout the entire degree.
Onsi Sawiris Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
The scholarship has two distinct tracks with specific requirements for each. Meeting the minimum criteria is essential — missing even one requirement will result in automatic disqualification.
Undergraduate Track — Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the undergraduate Onsi Sawiris Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following:
- Be an Egyptian national and a resident of Egypt (preference is given to non-holders of dual nationality)
- Be under 19 years of age at the time of application
- Have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 / 90% in Thanaweyya Amma (secondary school certificate) or an equivalent international high school qualification
- Score a minimum of 1,450 on SAT I or 32 on the ACT (taken within the last two years)
- Score a minimum of 100 on TOEFL iBT or 7.5 on IELTS Academic (taken within the last two years)
- Have not lived outside Egypt for more than two years
- Be committed to returning to Egypt for at least two years after completing the bachelor’s degree
- Have demonstrated extracurricular activities and entrepreneurial initiative
Students completing Grade 11 and students completing Grade 12 by the annual application deadline are both eligible, provided they plan to begin their freshman year at the approved university the following August.
Graduate Track — Eligibility Requirements
For the graduate Onsi Sawiris Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following:
- Be an Egyptian national and a resident of Egypt (preference is given to non-holders of dual nationality)
- Be under 35 years of age at the time of application
- Hold a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.5 or “Very Good” (cumulative)
- Score a minimum of 100 on TOEFL iBT or 7.5 on IELTS Academic (taken within the last two years)
- For MBA applicants: a minimum GMAT score of 650 (or GMAT Focus 595) or a GRE score of 315 with Analytical Writing of 4.5 (taken within the last five years)
- For Master of Engineering applicants: a minimum GRE score of 315 (Analytical Writing: 4.5)
- Have not lived outside Egypt for more than two years
- Be committed to returning to Egypt for two years after completing the master’s degree
- Male applicants must provide proof of military service completion, exemption, or postponement
- Not have already earned a master’s degree from a foreign university, or an Egyptian master’s degree in the same field of application
Note: Candidates with an Egyptian master’s degree in a different technical field may still be considered.
Approved Universities
The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship is exclusive. It is only granted to students admitted to the following five elite U.S. universities:
For Both Undergraduate and Graduate Tracks:
| # | University | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Harvard University | Cambridge, Massachusetts |
| 2 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Cambridge, Massachusetts |
| 3 | Stanford University | Stanford, California |
| 4 | University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| 5 | University of Chicago | Chicago, Illinois |
These are among the highest-ranked universities in the world. Being nominated for the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship does not guarantee admission to these universities — university acceptance must be obtained separately through the scholarship’s advising process managed by Amideast.
Eligible Fields of Study
The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship focuses on fields that will directly contribute to Egypt’s economic development and prosperity. Not all fields are eligible.
Undergraduate Eligible Fields:
- Engineering (excluding Computer Engineering and Computer Science — these can only be taken as a minor)
- Economics
- Finance
- Management
Graduate Eligible Fields:
- Engineering (excluding Computer Engineering and Computer Science)
- Business Administration (MBA)
For engineering programs, preference is given to sustainable development-related disciplines including civil engineering, environmental engineering, energy engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, water engineering, and sustainability.
Undergraduate vs. Graduate Track: Side-by-Side Comparison
This comparison table makes it easy to identify which track is right for you at a glance.
| Feature | Undergraduate Track | Graduate Track |
|---|---|---|
| Degree Level | Bachelor’s Degree | Master’s Degree (MBA or MEng) |
| Age Limit | Under 19 | Under 35 |
| GPA Requirement | 3.5 / 90% (High School) | 3.5 / Very Good (Bachelor’s) |
| English Test | TOEFL 100 / IELTS 7.5 | TOEFL 100 / IELTS 7.5 |
| Additional Test | SAT ≥1450 or ACT ≥32 | GRE ≥315 or GMAT ≥650 |
| Approved Universities | Harvard, MIT, Stanford, UPenn, UChicago | Harvard, MIT, Stanford, UPenn, UChicago |
| Fields Covered | Engineering, Economics, Finance, Management | Engineering, MBA |
| Return Commitment | 2 years post-graduation | 2 years post-graduation |
| Military Service (Males) | Not required | Proof required |
| Internship Opportunity | Yes | Yes |
| Covers Full Tuition | Yes | Yes |
Required Documents Checklist
Submitting an incomplete application results in automatic disqualification. Use this checklist before you hit submit.
Undergraduate Applicants Must Submit:
- Completed online application form via Amideast’s portal
- Updated resume / CV
- Copy of SAT I or ACT test scores
- Copy of TOEFL iBT or IELTS test scores
- Copy of latest transcripts (and Thanaweyya Amma certificate, if available)
- Two recommendation letters (addressed specifically to the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship Program)
- Proof of extracurricular activities
Graduate Applicants Must Submit:
- Completed online application form via Amideast’s portal
- Updated resume / CV
- Copy of GRE or GMAT / GMAT Focus test scores
- Copy of TOEFL iBT or IELTS test scores
- Copy of bachelor’s degree transcripts
- Copy of graduation certificate
- Two recommendation letters: one academic and one professional
- Proof of military service completion, exemption, or postponement (for male applicants)
- Proof of extracurricular activities
Pro Tip: Both recommendation letters must be recent and formally addressed to the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship Program. Generic letters are unlikely to impress the selection committee.
How to Apply for the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship (Step-by-Step)
The application process is managed by Amideast Egypt, a nonprofit organization that handles international educational advising and testing across the Arab world. Here is exactly how to apply each year:
Step 1 — Confirm Your Eligibility Before anything else, review every eligibility criterion for your track (undergraduate or graduate) and ensure you meet all minimum requirements without exception.
Step 2 — Prepare Your Test Scores Early The TOEFL/IELTS, SAT/ACT (for undergrads), or GRE/GMAT (for graduates) must all be taken and scored before the application deadline. These tests take time to schedule and receive results, so plan several months in advance.
Step 3 — Create Your Amideast Account Visit the official Amideast Egypt portal at www.amideast.org/egypt and create an account. This is the platform where all application submissions are made.
Step 4 — Complete the Application Form Fill in all personal information, educational background, and test scores accurately. Do not leave any sections blank.
Step 5 — Write Your Statement of Purpose Essays This is the most critical part. Two essays are required:
- Essay 1 (500 words): Considering personal, local, and national concerns as they relate to your future — how would attending your chosen university allow you to achieve success on all these levels?
- Essay 2 (350 words): What are you passionate about, and how have you pursued those passions throughout your life?
These essays are assessed heavily. Be specific, authentic, and show how your education will serve Egypt’s future.
Step 6 — Upload All Required Documents Upload every document on the checklist. Missing even one document leads to automatic disqualification with no appeal process.
Step 7 — Submit Before the Annual Deadline The application deadline falls annually on July 31st. Do not wait until the last day — technical issues and missing documents are common pitfalls that eliminate otherwise qualified candidates.
Step 8 — Attend the Interview (If Shortlisted) Shortlisted candidates are contacted and invited to personal interviews held at Orascom Construction headquarters in Cairo. This is your chance to demonstrate character, leadership, and national commitment face-to-face.
For any inquiries, contact Amideast directly:
- Email: [email protected]
- Hotline: 19263
- Address: 38 Mohie El Din Abo El Ezz Street, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
Selection Process and Timeline
The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship follows a structured annual selection timeline. Here is what the process looks like each year:
| Stage | Approximate Timing |
|---|---|
| Application window opens | Early in the calendar year |
| Annual application deadline | July 31st |
| Semi-finalist selection and personal interviews | August – September |
| Notification of nominated applicants | September |
| Program orientation for nominees | October |
| University application stage (with Amideast advising) | October – April/May of the following year |
| Award ceremony at Orascom Construction | July of the following year |
Being nominated by the scholarship program does not guarantee university admission. Nominated candidates are then supported by Amideast advisors in applying exclusively to the five endorsed universities. Once a university acceptance is received, the scholarship award is formally made.
Tips to Win the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship
The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship is extremely competitive. Here is what sets winning applicants apart:
1. Score Above the Minimums, Not Just At Them A SAT of 1,450 or a GPA of 3.5 meets the threshold. But candidates who score 1,550+ on the SAT or hold a 3.8+ GPA stand out dramatically. Treat the minimums as the floor, not the target.
2. Build a Meaningful Extracurricular Profile The selection committee evaluates entrepreneurial initiative and character, not just grades. Community projects, leadership roles, national competitions, and volunteerism all strengthen your application considerably.
3. Demonstrate a Clear Vision for Egypt’s Future Both essays and the interview revolve around this: how will you use a U.S. education to contribute to Egypt? Be specific. Vague answers like “I want to help Egypt grow” are not compelling. Link your intended field of study to a concrete national challenge you plan to address.
4. Get Recommendation Letters from the Right People For undergraduates, two recommendation letters are required. For graduates, one must be academic and one professional. Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak concretely to your academic ability, leadership, and character — not just your grades.
5. Do Not Underestimate the Return Commitment The scholarship requires a two-year return to Egypt after graduation. The selection committee takes this seriously. Show genuine commitment to Egypt in your essays, not just compliance.
6. Apply Early Every Year The annual deadline is July 31st. Applying even a week early gives you time to correct any missing documents or technical issues on the Amideast portal.
What People Also Ask
Is the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship fully funded? Yes. The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship covers full tuition, living allowance, travel expenses (round-trip), health insurance, books, and a computer. Recipients do not pay any educational costs out of pocket.
Who can apply for the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship? Only Egyptian nationals who are residents of Egypt are eligible. Dual nationality holders may apply, but preference is given to non-dual nationality holders. Undergraduate applicants must be under 19; graduate applicants must be under 35.
What universities are included in the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship? The scholarship is only granted to students admitted to one of five elite U.S. universities: Harvard University, MIT, Stanford University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the University of Chicago.
When is the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship deadline? The application deadline falls annually on July 31st. Applications are submitted through Amideast Egypt’s online portal.
Can I apply for the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship if I already have a master’s degree? No. Graduate applicants who already hold a master’s degree from a foreign university, or an Egyptian master’s degree in the same field they are applying for, are not eligible for the graduate track.
Does the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship guarantee university acceptance? No. Being nominated as a scholarship candidate does not guarantee university acceptance. Nominated students receive Amideast advising support to apply to the approved universities, and the scholarship award is only formally made once a university acceptance has been obtained.
What fields does the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship cover? For undergraduates: Engineering (excluding Computer Engineering and CS), Economics, Finance, and Management. For graduates: Engineering (excluding Computer Engineering and CS) and Business Administration (MBA). Computer Science can only be pursued as a minor.
What is the age limit for the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship? For the undergraduate track, applicants must be under 19 years old. For the graduate track, applicants must be under 35 years old.
Is there an interview for the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship? Yes. Shortlisted candidates are invited to personal interviews at Orascom Construction’s headquarters in Cairo, held each year between August and September.
Who manages the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship application process? The application process is entirely managed by Amideast Egypt. Contact them at [email protected] or call 19263 for all inquiries.
Related Scholarships Worth Exploring
If you are passionate about studying in the United States and want to explore additional opportunities alongside the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship, here are three highly relevant outbound resources to guide your research:
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program The Fulbright Program is the U.S. government’s flagship international scholarship. Egyptian students have access to Fulbright grants for graduate-level study and research. Visit the official program website to learn more: us.fulbrightonline.org
2. AAUW International Fellowships The American Association of University Women awards fellowships to women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents and who are pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral study in the United States. Learn more at: aauw.org
3. Orascom Construction — Official Company Background Understanding the organization behind the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship helps you craft a stronger application. Learn about Orascom’s mission, values, and projects at: orascomconstruction.com
Onsi Sawiris Scholarship vs. Similar Fully Funded Scholarships for Egyptian Students
| Feature | Onsi Sawiris Scholarship | Fulbright Egypt | DAAD Scholarship |
|---|---|---|---|
| Host Country | United States | United States | Germany |
| Degree Level | Undergraduate + Graduate | Graduate (mainly) | Graduate + Research |
| Open to Egyptians | Yes (exclusively) | Yes | Yes |
| Approved Universities | 5 fixed elite schools | Any accredited U.S. university | Any accredited German university |
| Fields Covered | Engineering, Business, Economics | All fields | Most fields |
| Tuition | Full coverage | Full coverage | Full coverage |
| Living Allowance | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Return Requirement | 2 years in Egypt | Depends on grant type | No formal requirement |
| Age Limit | 19 (UG) / 35 (Grad) | Varies | Varies |
| Application Platform | Amideast Egypt | IIE / U.S. Embassy Cairo | DAAD portal |
| Selection Criteria | Merit, character, need | Academic excellence, leadership | Academic excellence |
If you are exploring more scholarship opportunities and educational funding options, here are useful resources you may want to read next on LicensureHub:
- Burger King Scholarship: Your Complete Guide — Learn how corporate scholarships work and how to win up to $60,000 for your education.
- Coolidge Scholarship: Ultimate Guide to This Full-Ride Merit Award — Discover how the Coolidge Scholarship compares to other top-tier merit scholarships.
- Ron Brown Scholarship: The Complete Guide to Winning $40,000 — A detailed guide to winning one of the most prestigious scholarships for high-achieving students.
If you found this guide helpful, you may also enjoy these related articles:
- Morehead-Cain Scholarship: How to Apply for UNC’s Top Merit Award
- MOE Teaching Scholarship: The Ultimate Guide
- Rutherford Scholarship: The Complete Guide to Succeed
Final Thoughts
The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship is one of the most powerful, fully funded scholarship opportunities available to Egyptian students — not just in Egypt, but in the entire Arab world. With placements at Harvard, MIT, Stanford, the University of Pennsylvania, and the University of Chicago, this is not just a scholarship. It is a life-defining opportunity that can redirect the trajectory of an entire career and, in turn, contribute to Egypt’s economic future.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and have the academic excellence, entrepreneurial drive, and commitment to Egypt that the program values, there is no reason not to apply. The application is currently open each year, with the annual deadline falling on July 31st. Do not wait until the last moment. Begin preparing your test scores, essays, and recommendation letters now.
For the latest updates and to apply, visit the official scholarship website: onsisawirisscholarship.com or contact Amideast at [email protected].
Disclaimer: Scholarship details, deadlines, and eligibility criteria are subject to change each cycle. Always verify the latest information on the official Onsi Sawiris Scholarship website at onsisawirisscholarship.com or through Amideast Egypt before submitting your application.
