DeadlineEach partner institution sets its own deadlines and requirements; apply directly through the chosen partner.
Application feeFree
About this scholarship
Comprehensive support covering tuition, accommodation, living costs, and holistic academic and leadership development. Full degree duration
ProviderMastercard Foundation
CountryMultiple (Global)
Host university / institutionUniversity of Cape Town, Makerere University, Ashesi University, University of Pretoria, Arizona State University, McGill University, University of Toronto, University of Edinburgh, American University of Beirut (62 partner institutions)
Degree levelsBachelors/Masters
Fields of studyAll fields
Funding typeFully Funded
Application feeFree
DeadlineEach partner institution sets its own deadlines and requirements; apply directly through the chosen partner.
IntakeFall
Applications openVaries
CompetitionVery High
Programme durationFull degree duration
BachelorsMastersAll fields
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program eligibility criteria
Primarily African youth and those from underserved communities
Economically disadvantaged with financial need
Academically talented and high-achieving
Service-oriented with leadership potential and commitment to giving back
Meets the admission requirements of the chosen partner institution
Specific criteria set by each individual partner institution
Benefits and coverage
Full tuition fees
Accommodation
Books and academic materials
Living expenses/stipend
Mentoring and counseling (psychosocial support)
Leadership development and transition support
Return airfare where necessary
Required documents
Academic transcripts/records
Proof of admission or application to a partner institution
Evidence of financial need
Personal statement/essay
Letters of recommendation
Proof of identity/nationality
How to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Review the eligibility criteria above and confirm you meet every requirement.
Prepare all required documents early — transcripts, CV, recommendation letters and motivation letter.
Each partner institution sets its own deadlines and requirements; apply directly through the chosen partner. Submit a complete application before the official deadline.
Always confirm the latest details on the official website before applying.
Amount / coverageComprehensive support covering tuition, accommodation, living costs, and holistic academi…
LevelsBachelors/Masters
Frequently asked questions
Primarily African youth and those from underserved communities Economically disadvantaged with financial need Academically talented and high-achieving Service-oriented with leadership potential and commitment to giving back Meets the admission requirements of the chosen partner institution Specific criteria set by each individual partner institution
Full tuition fees Accommodation Books and academic materials Living expenses/stipend Mentoring and counseling (psychosocial support) Leadership development and transition support Return airfare where necessary
Academic transcripts/records Proof of admission or application to a partner institution Evidence of financial need Personal statement/essay Letters of recommendation Proof of identity/nationality
Each partner institution sets its own deadlines and requirements; apply directly through the chosen partner.
No — applications for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program are free.