Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 (Fully Funded)

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 offers fully funded opportunities for talented and socially committed students from Africa and other underrepresented regions. This prestigious program provides full tuition coverage, housing, living stipends, and academic support, allowing scholars to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies at some of the world’s leading universities.

The program focuses on transformative leadership, academic excellence, and social impact, aiming to empower the next generation of African leaders who will contribute to sustainable development and inclusive growth across the continent.

About the Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program partners with top universities and institutions globally to ensure scholars receive world-class education, mentorship, and professional development. In addition to academic support, scholars benefit from leadership training, internship placements, and community engagement opportunities that prepare them to become change-makers in their fields.

Scholarship Details

Host Organization: Mastercard Foundation
Host Institutions: Partner Universities Worldwide
Study Level: Undergraduate and Master’s
Eligibility: African Students and candidates from underrepresented regions

Benefits of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026

Full tuition coverage for the entire study period.
Accommodation and housing costs fully covered.
Funding for textbooks and study materials.
Travel support for relocation or academic trips.
Monthly living allowance to cover daily expenses.
Comprehensive health insurance for the duration of the program.
Mentorship and leadership development opportunities.
Internships and career guidance at partner institutions.

Partner Universities and Institutions

Africa:

African Leadership Academy (ALA), South Africa
Ashesi University, Ghana
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana
University of Cape Town (UCT), South Africa
University of Pretoria, South Africa
University of the Western Cape (UWC), South Africa
Makerere University, Uganda

North America:

Arizona State University (ASU), USA
McGill University, Canada
University of British Columbia (UBC), Canada
University of Toronto, Canada
University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley), USA
Wellesley College, USA

Europe:

Sciences Po, France
University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Middle East:

American University of Beirut (AUB), Lebanon

Eligibility Criteria

Academic Excellence: Proven record of strong academic performance and commitment to learning.
Financial Need: Must demonstrate that financial constraints limit access to higher education.
Leadership Potential: Active engagement in community development or social impact initiatives.
Citizenship: Open to students from Africa and other underrepresented regions.
Education Level: Varies by institution — undergraduate applicants must hold a high school diploma, while Master’s applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree.

Required Documents

Completed application form
Academic transcripts and certificates
Letters of recommendation
Personal statement or essay describing leadership goals
Proof of financial need
Proof of citizenship or residency

Application Deadline

Deadlines for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 vary by partner institution. Applicants should verify specific dates and requirements on the university’s official scholarship page before applying.

How to Apply

Research Partner Institutions: Review the list of partner universities and choose the one that aligns with your academic goals.
Check Requirements: Each institution has its own eligibility and documentation requirements.
Prepare Application Documents: Gather transcripts, essays, recommendation letters, and financial proof.
Submit the Application: Apply directly through the partner university’s scholarship portal or website.
Track Application Status: Monitor communication from the university for interview invitations or further instructions.