Applications are now open for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027, a fully funded scholarship opportunity for academically talented students who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to creating positive change in their communities. The program supports undergraduate and master’s degree studies at leading partner universities across Africa, North America, Europe and the Middle East.
The scholarship is designed primarily for students from Africa and other underrepresented communities who face financial barriers to higher education. Through partnerships with world-renowned universities, the Mastercard Foundation aims to develop future leaders equipped with the knowledge, skills and networks needed to contribute to social and economic development.
In addition to financial support, scholars receive mentorship, leadership development training, career guidance, internships and access to a global network of scholars and alumni.
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 Overview
- Host Organization: Mastercard Foundation
- Study Level: Undergraduate and Master’s Degrees
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Eligible Applicants: Students from African countries and underrepresented communities
- Host Institutions: Partner Universities Worldwide
- Coverage: Full Financial Support
- Application Deadline: Varies by Institution
Scholarship Benefits
Selected scholars receive extensive financial and academic support, including:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Accommodation and housing support
- Monthly living allowance
- Books and learning materials
- Travel and transportation assistance
- Medical and health insurance coverage
- Leadership and professional development programs
- Mentorship and career support
- Access to internships and networking opportunities
- Membership in the global Mastercard Foundation Scholars community
Partner Universities
The Mastercard Foundation collaborates with prestigious universities across multiple regions.
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, USA
- Wellesley College, USA
Europe
- Sciences Po, France
- University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Middle East
- American University of Beirut (AUB), Lebanon
Also Check: University of Tokyo MEXT Scholarship 2027 | Study in Japan Fully Funded Without IELTS
Available Degree Programs
The scholarship supports a variety of academic disciplines through:
Undergraduate Programs
Students can pursue bachelor’s degrees in fields such as:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Business and Economics
- Health Sciences
- Education
- Social Sciences
- Agriculture
- Environmental Studies
- Humanities
Master’s Programs
Eligible master’s degree programs vary by institution and may include:
- Public Policy
- International Development
- Engineering
- Data Science
- Public Health
- Education
- Business Administration
- Environmental Sustainability
- Social Sciences
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027, applicants generally must:
- Demonstrate excellent academic achievement
- Show leadership potential and initiative
- Have a strong commitment to community service and social impact
- Demonstrate financial need
- Be a citizen of an eligible African country or meet the requirements of a partner institution
- Meet admission requirements for the selected university and program
- Fulfill language proficiency requirements where applicable
- Satisfy any additional scholarship criteria established by the partner institution
Specific eligibility requirements may vary depending on the university.
Required Documents
Applicants are typically required to submit:
- Completed application form
- Academic transcripts
- Educational certificates and diplomas
- Personal statement or motivation letter
- Letters of recommendation
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé
- Proof of financial need
- Proof of citizenship or residency
- Language proficiency certificates (if required)
- Additional supporting documents requested by the university
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on a combination of factors, including:
- Academic excellence
- Leadership experience
- Community engagement
- Personal achievements
- Future goals and aspirations
- Financial need
- Potential to contribute to social and economic development
Strong applications clearly demonstrate both academic capability and a commitment to creating positive impact.
Application Deadline
There is no single deadline for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Application dates vary by partner university and academic program.
Prospective applicants should regularly check the scholarship pages of their chosen institutions for updated timelines and admission requirements.
How to Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?
Follow these steps to submit a successful application:
Step 1: Choose a Partner University
Review the list of Mastercard Foundation partner institutions and identify the university that aligns with your academic and career goals.
Step 2: Review Eligibility Requirements
Carefully read the scholarship and admission criteria published by the selected institution.
Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents
Gather all required documents, including academic records, recommendation letters, financial documents and personal statements.
Step 4: Apply for Admission
Submit an application for admission through the official university application portal.
Step 5: Complete the Scholarship Application
Follow the scholarship application instructions provided by the university and submit all required materials before the deadline.
Step 6: Await Selection Results
Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interviews or further assessments before final scholarship decisions are announced.
