The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers one of the most competitive fully funded postgraduate scholarships for talented students from Africa and underserved communities. Designed for Master’s and PhD applicants, the program goes beyond tuition support by providing leadership training, mentorship, and career development to help scholars build impactful careers.
Several top global universities are now accepting applications for the 2026 Mastercard Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship.
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (Postgraduate)
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program supports academically strong postgraduate students who demonstrate leadership potential, community impact, and financial need. Scholars receive comprehensive funding and professional development support throughout their studies.
Each partner university manages its own admission and scholarship process, so applicants must apply directly to the institution of choice.
What the Mastercard Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship Covers
The scholarship is fully funded, typically including:
- Full postgraduate tuition fees
- On-campus or approved accommodation
- Monthly living allowance
- Health insurance
- Books and study materials
- International travel (airfare)
- Leadership training and mentorship
- Career support, internships, and networking
Application fees charged by universities are reimbursed if the applicant is selected as a Mastercard Foundation Scholar.
Universities Accepting Applications
(Postgraduate Programs Only – Applications Open)
American University of Beirut (AUB)
- Location: Beirut, Lebanon
- Level: Master’s
- Status: Applications Open
- Application Link
Arizona State University (ASU)
- Location: Tempe, Arizona, USA
- Level: Master’s & PhD
- Status: Applications Open
- Application Link
University of Cambridge
- Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Level: Postgraduate (Master’s)
- Status: Applications Open
- Application Link
Carnegie Mellon University Africa (CMU-Africa)
- Location: Kigali, Rwanda
- Level: Master’s
- Status: Applications Open
- Application Link
Sciences Po
- Location: Paris, France
- Level: Master’s
- Status: Applications Open
- Application Link
University of California, Berkeley
- Location: Berkeley, California, USA
- Level: Master’s & PhD
- Status: Applications Open
- Application Link
University of Global Health Equity (UGHE)
- Location: Kigali, Rwanda
- Level: Master’s
- Status: Applications Open
- Application Link
Who Should Apply?
This postgraduate scholarship is ideal for candidates who:
- Are applying for a Master’s or PhD program
- Demonstrate strong academic performance
- Show leadership ability and community involvement
- Come from financially disadvantaged backgrounds
- Intend to return home or contribute to development after graduation
Eligibility and program availability vary by university.
How to Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship
- Select a partner university offering your desired postgraduate program
- Review the institution’s admission and Mastercard Foundation eligibility criteria
- Submit your postgraduate admission application
- Complete any Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program forms required
- Apply before the university’s stated deadline
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