The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global initiative designed to develop the next generation of transformative leaders by enabling highly talented, service-oriented young people to pursue higher education and cultivate their leadership potential.
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program forges powerful partnerships with higher education institutions to deliver robust support to individual Mastercard Foundation Scholars, particularly during their academic journeys and transitions into work.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has committed over 57,000 scholarships for young African leaders to succeed in the world of work and grow as transformative leaders. By 2030, we aim to double our impact by enabling 100,000 young people to access higher education.
What role will you play towards a better continent?
We envision a transformative network of young people and institutions driving inclusive and equitable socio-economic change in Africa.
We work with education institutions, NGOs, and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars and Alumni communities to create the conditions that will enable young people to attain inclusive and relevant education, transition smoothly into dignified and fulfilling work, and lead transformative lives.
Where To Apply?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers comprehensive support to enable young people to attain inclusive and relevant education, transition smoothly into dignified and fulfilling work, and lead transformative lives.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is implemented through our partner universities and non-governmental organizations. The application process and decision-making are managed individually by each partner. If you are interested in becoming a Mastercard Foundation Scholar, please apply directly through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program-affiliated institution you wish to attend. Search the listings below.
Partner institutions have their own application processes, deadlines, and admission fees. We recommend that you read through the application guidelines or contact the institution of your choice for more information. For schools that require application fees as part of the admissions process, the fees will be reimbursed if the student is selected for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
The Mastercard Foundation is aware of Facebook posts advertising recruitment for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and requesting an application fee. These groups are not associated with the Mastercard Foundation.
The Foundation does not solicit funding or request payments from individuals. The public is requested to remain vigilant and report suspected fraudulent activities relating to or involving the Mastercard Foundation to local law enforcement agencies and inform the Foundation of any suspicious activities at privacy@mastercardfdn.org
Who Can Apply (Basic Eligibility Requirements)
The exact requirements vary depending on the partner university and the program (Bachelor’s or Master’s), but generally:
General Eligibility:
- African Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of an African country (including refugees/internally displaced persons within Africa).
- Residency: Applicants typically reside in Africa, but can apply even if temporarily residing outside the continent for study or work.
Academics:
- For Bachelor’s: Completion of a high-quality secondary education.
- For Master’s: A Bachelor’s degree with a good grade (usually equivalent to a very good grade or higher).
- Leadership and Community Engagement: Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to community service or leading a positive impact in their country.
- Financial Need: Demonstrated financial need is often required, showing that you cannot afford the costs of education without support.
- Age: Some program partners have age limits for applicants (e.g., under 30–35 years old, depending on the degree).
- Previous Experience: For Master’s programs, you must not hold another Master’s degree or be already enrolled in a similar program elsewhere.
- The program encourages women, refugees/internally displaced persons, and people with disabilities to apply.
What benefits does the program cover?
Scholarships vary from institution to institution, but typically include:
- Academic and financial support
- Full tuition fees
- On-campus accommodation (depending on the university)
- Books and study materials
- Monthly living allowance (in some university programs)
- Round-trip airfare to your home country, if needed
Non-financial support:
- Support networks and alumni from the Mastercard Foundation program
- Professional training sessions and workshops in leadership and entrepreneurship
- Support for transitioning to the job market after graduation, through mentoring and training programs
How and Where to Apply?
Applications are not submitted directly through Mastercard itself, but rather through partner universities that manage your admission and program.
First, you must:
- Choose a partner university or institution within the program network (e.g., universities in Africa, North America, or Europe).
- Apply to the desired academic program at the university (Bachelor’s/Master’s).
- After being accepted by the university, complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application form at that university.
- Prepare your documents: CV, transcripts, letters of recommendation, motivation/objectives letters, proof of financial need, and any other documents as required by the university.
Each university has its own deadlines, so it is important to visit the partner university’s website for specific deadlines and details.
*Tip : If you are a high-achieving African student with leadership potential and a strong desire to make an impact in your community, and you face financial challenges in your education, this program is one of the best options worth applying for.
