How to find a sponsor for school or university fees

Sponsors want to know the student, the school, the exact fees and that their money will be used well. Prepare those four things and ask the people most likely to say yes.

By the Zanja team · Updated 8 November 2026

Free to start. Zanja keeps 5% of each donation and nothing else.
Supporters give with Airtel Money, MTN MoMo, Zamtel Kwacha, Visa and Mastercard.
Cash out to mobile money or a Zambian bank account (minimum K50).

Who to ask

Relatives near and abroad, each for a part of the fees rather than all of it.
Your church, mosque or faith group.
Former pupils (alumni) of your school.
Your school or university: ask about bursaries, payment plans and sponsors they work with.
Local businesses and community organisations near you.
Bursary and scholarship programmes run by government, companies and foundations. Check their official websites for requirements and dates.

What to prepare

Admission letter or proof of enrolment.
Fee statement or invoice with the exact amount and deadline.
Latest results or report.
A short personal statement: who you are, what you're studying and your goals.
A recommendation from a teacher, lecturer, pastor or community leader.

Make it easy to help

Put the fees and costs in one place, broken down (tuition, accommodation, books, transport), and share one link. Relatives and sponsors can each cover part, and everyone sees what is still needed. A back-to-school wish list lets them choose items like a laptop or shoes.