Applications are now open for the 2027 Innovation and Technology Scholarship offered through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program in partnership with Arizona State University (ASU).
The scholarship will provide 30 graduate study opportunities for eligible African students admitted for the 2027–2028 academic year to study selected Master’s degree programmes focused on technology, innovation, sustainability and related fields.
Successful scholars will study full-time and in person at ASU’s Tempe campus in Arizona, USA, for two years.
The scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, including full tuition, accommodation, healthcare, airfare and other educational expenses.
Application Deadline: September 27, 2026 at 23:59 GMT
Arizona State University Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 – Quick Overview
- Scholarship: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program – Innovation and Technology Scholarship
- University: Arizona State University (ASU)
- Location: Tempe, Arizona, USA
- Study Level: Master’s Degree
- Duration: Two years
- Study Mode: Full-time, on-campus
- Scholarships Available: 30
- Eligible Applicants: Citizens of African countries
- Academic Year: 2027–2028
- Funding: Fully funded
- Deadline: September 27, 2026
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides comprehensive support to selected scholars throughout their studies.
The scholarship covers:
- Visa application processing costs
- English language proficiency test voucher, if required
- ASU graduate application fee waiver
- Round-trip airfare to and from Phoenix, Arizona
- Full tuition
- Required books
- Student fees
- Medical support
- On-campus housing
- Leadership development and signature programming
Beyond financial support, scholars will participate in mentorship, leadership development, community engagement, professional development and other enrichment activities.
The programme is designed to help scholars develop the skills and leadership capacity needed to contribute to positive social and economic change in their communities and beyond.
Available Master’s Degree Programmes
The 2027 Innovation and Technology Scholarship is available for the following full-time, on-campus graduate programmes at ASU:
1. MS Global Technology and Development
A programme focused on the relationship between technology, development and global challenges.
Designed for students interested in advanced information technology and its applications.
3. MS Human Systems Engineering – Intelligent Systems
Focuses on human-centred systems and intelligent technologies.
Suitable for students seeking advanced study in computer science and related technological fields.
5. MS Data Science, Analytics and Engineering – Computing and Decision Analytics
Focuses on data science, analytics, computing and technology-driven decision-making.
6. MS Robotics and Autonomous Systems
Designed for students interested in robotics, automation and autonomous technologies.
7. MS Civil, Environmental & Sustainable Engineering
Focuses on engineering solutions related to infrastructure, environmental challenges and sustainability.
Provides advanced study in clean energy technologies and systems.
9. MS Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use
Focuses on modern energy production and sustainable energy use.
Applicants should carefully review the individual programme requirements before applying.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the Arizona State University Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, applicants must meet all the key requirements below:
- Have earned, or be on track to earn, a bachelor’s degree by August 2027 from a recognized institution.
- Have a strong academic record equivalent to at least a 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
- Meet ASU’s English language proficiency requirements for graduate admission.
- Be a citizen of an African country.
- Be between 18 and 33 years old on or before September 27, 2026.
- Demonstrate leadership and community service.
- Show a commitment to creating positive change in their community.
- Have never previously enrolled in or completed a graduate or Master’s degree programme.
- Not be enrolled in or begin another graduate or Master’s programme while applying for this scholarship.
- Be willing and able to relocate to Tempe, Arizona, USA, and remain on campus for the duration of the programme.
Important Academic Requirement
One of the major requirements is the academic threshold.
Applicants must demonstrate the equivalent of a minimum 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
You must also have completed, or be expected to complete, your bachelor’s degree by August 2027.
Higher education diplomas, certificates and other non-degree qualifications do not replace the required bachelor’s degree.
You Do NOT Need to Apply to ASU First
This is an important part of the application process.
Do not independently apply for admission to ASU or a graduate programme unless the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Team instructs you to do so.
All applicants must first complete the Mastercard Foundation scholarship application.
Candidates who advance to the next stage will be invited for an interview and will then receive guidance on how to complete the ASU graduate admission process.
Applicants invited to apply to ASU will receive an application fee waiver and should not pay the application fee.
Also note that admission to an academic programme does not automatically guarantee the scholarship.
How Will the Selection Process Work?
Applicants who meet the initial requirements will be assessed through the scholarship selection process.
Candidates selected to advance will be invited for an interview.
Those who progress further will receive instructions and support regarding the ASU graduate admission process.
Because only 30 graduate opportunities are available, applicants should make sure their application clearly demonstrates their academic strength, leadership, community involvement and commitment to positive change.
Required Documents
Applicants using the alternative PDF application process should submit the required supporting documents, including:
- CV/Resume
- Letter of Recommendation
- Academic Transcripts
- Completed scholarship application form
Documents submitted by email should be prepared in PDF format.
Applicants completing the online application should carefully follow the instructions provided within the application system.
How to Apply
There are two ways to submit the application.
Applicants with reliable internet access are encouraged to complete the application online.
Follow the official scholarship application process and select “NEXT” at the bottom of the application page to begin.
Applicants with limited internet access can download the PDF version of the application form.
Complete the form and email the application together with the required attachments, including:
- CV/Resume
- Letter of Recommendation
- Transcripts
All documents should be submitted in PDF format to:
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