30+ Mastercard Foundation Scholarships | Fully Funded
If you are interested in studying for free abroad, you can explore the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and apply for scholarships that are fully funded for you to study at different countries. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global initiative designed to develop the next generation of transformative leaders by enabling highly talented, service-oriented young people to pursue higher education and cultivate their leadership potential.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program forges powerful partnerships with higher education institutions to deliver robust support to individual Mastercard Foundation Scholars, particularly during their academic journeys and transitions into work.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is more than a scholarship program. It is a community. Apply for Mastercard Fully Funded Scholarship and advance your academic and research career.
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Mastercard Foundation Fully Funded Scholarships in Summary
- Host Country: Various Countries
- Study Abroad: Study in Europe, Study in Africa, Study in UK, Study in Canada, Study in USA
- Host: Various Universities
- Category: Undergraduate Scholarships | Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships | PhD Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: African Countries
- Reward: Fully Funded
- Deadline: Varies – Check Affiliated Institution for deadlines
Scholarship Categories to Explore on ScholarWaka— Here are some key scholarship opportunities you should check out on ScholarWaka:
- Study Abroad: Study in USA | Study in Canada | Study in UK | Study in Europe | Study in Asia | Study in Australia | Study in Africa
- Scholarship Category: Undergraduate Scholarships | Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships | PhD Scholarships | Diploma Scholarships | Competitions | High School Scholarships | Internships Scholarships | Training | Fellowships
Mastercard Foundation Fully Funded Scholarships in Details
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is implemented through partner universities and non-governmental organizations. The application process and decision-making are managed individually by each partner. If you are interested in becoming a Mastercard Foundation Scholar, please apply directly through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program-affiliated institution you wish to attend. Search the listings below.
Partner institutions have their own application processes, deadlines, and admission fees. We recommend that you read through the application guidelines or contact the institution of your choice for more information. For schools that require application fees as part of the admissions process, the fees will be reimbursed if the student is selected for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
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This is more than just a scholarship – this Program offers comprehensive support to enable young people to attain inclusive and relevant education, transition smoothly into dignified and fulfilling work, and lead transformative lives.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has committed over 57,000 scholarships for young African leaders to succeed in the world of work and grow as transformative leaders. By 2030, we aim to double our impact by enabling 100,000 young people to access higher education.
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Eligibility Requirements for the Mastercard Foundation Fully Funded Scholarships
To qualify for the Mastercard Foundation Fully Funded Scholarships, applicants must meet a set of general requirements. While specific criteria may vary depending on the partner university, the core eligibility conditions remain largely the same across all programs.
- Citizenship Requirement – Applicants must be citizens of an African country and typically reside in Africa. However, some programs may accept candidates temporarily studying or working abroad.
- Academic Excellence – Candidates must demonstrate strong academic performance and meet the admission requirements of their chosen university and program.
- Leadership Potential – The scholarship is not just about academics, applicants must show clear leadership qualities and the ability to create impact.
- Commitment to Giving Back – Applicants must show a strong commitment to giving back to their communities or contributing to Africa’s development after their studies.
- Financial Need – The Mastercard Foundation targets academically talented but economically disadvantaged students. Applicants must demonstrate that they lack the financial means to pursue higher education.
- Eligible Study Programs – Applicants must apply for approved full-time programs offered by partner universities.
- Admission to a Partner Institution – You cannot apply for the scholarship separately, you must: Apply to a participating university, gain admission into an eligible program and be nominated by the university for the scholarship.
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Mastercard Foundation Fully Funded Scholarships Benefits
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers one of the most comprehensive fully funded scholarships in the world. It goes beyond tuition coverage to support students academically, financially, and professionally throughout their study period.
Below are the key benefits you can expect:
- Full Tuition Coverage
- Accommodation & Housing
- Monthly Living Allowance
- Travel Expenses
- Books & Study Materials
- Visa & Application Fees
- Laptop
- Leadership & Career Development
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship is not just a fully funded opportunity — it is a life-changing leadership program that equips African students with the skills, support, and network needed to succeed and create impact globally.
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Required Documents for the Mastercard Foundation Fully Funded Scholarships Benefits
To successfully apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, applicants must submit a complete set of documents as part of their university admission + scholarship application.
Note: Requirements may vary slightly depending on the partner university, but the documents below are generally required across most institutions.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Personal Statement / Scholarship Essay
- Academic transcripts and certificate
- Proof of English language proficiency (if required)
- Recommendation letter – Most universities require at least 1–2 reference letters from: Academic lecturers and Employers or Mentors
- International passport or national ID
- Proof of Financial Need – since the scholarship targets financially disadvantaged students, you may need to provide income statements or personal statement explaining financial background
- Leadership & Community Impact Evidence – you may need to demonstrate volunteer work, evidence of community service or leadership activities
Check this how-to on how to apply and study in Romania for free on our YouTube Channel:
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Institutions (Where to Apply)
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program partners with top universities and institutions across Africa, Europe, North America, and the Middle East to provide fully funded scholarships.
Important: You cannot apply directly to the scholarship — you must apply through any of the partner institutions listed below.
Key Insight
- The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is implemented through partner institutions only
- Each university has different deadlines, requirements, and programs
- You can apply to multiple universities to increase your chances for an award
Complete List of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Institutions (30 Total)
1. African Leadership University (ALU)
African Leadership University is aimed at enabling the most promising young leaders from across Africa to access an ALU education, despite financial adversity or economic barriers, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ALU implements a full scholarship programme.
- Host Countries: Rwanda, Mauritius
- Study Abroad: Study in Africa
- Host: African Leadership University (ALU)
- Category: Undergraduate Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All African countries
- Reward: Fully Funded
Application Link
2. American University of Beirut (AUB)
The American University of Beirut is a leading institution in the Middle East known for academic excellence and leadership development. The vision of the Faculty of Health Sciences is to promote the health and well-being of populations through quality higher education.
- Host Country: Lebanon
- Study Abroad: Study in Asia
- Host Institution: American University of Beirut (AUB)
- Host: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships | PhD Scholarships
- Eligibility: African countries, Lebanon
- Reward: Full scholarship coverage, books, living expenses, laptop, etc
Application Link
3. Arizona State University (ASU)
ASU provides access to quality education to high-achieving African students who face significant economic barriers and is currently in its Phase II with a special focus on Strengthening Institutional Linkages. ASU aims to equip African youth with the critical technological, entrepreneurial, and leadership skills required to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
- Host Country: United States of America (USA)
- Study Abroad: Study in USA
- Host Institution: Arizona State University (ASU)
- Funded By: Mastercard Foundation
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Master’s Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: African Countries
- Program Type: Online Graduate Certificate
- Reward: Full tuition fees | Personalised Coaching & Mentorship | Access to ASU academic resources and lots more
Application Link
4. Carnegie Mellon University Africa (CMU-Africa)
Carnegie Mellon University Africa provides world-class graduate education in technology and engineering. It supports highly talented, service-oriented young people who face the highest social and economic barriers to opportunity. The graduate students complete their Master of Science degrees in Information Technology, Electrical and Computer Engineering, or Engineering Artificial Intelligence.
- Host Country: Rwanda
- Study Abroad: Study in Africa
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All African countries
- Reward: Full tuition, living expenses, travel, health insurance, and academic support
Application Link
5. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
KNUST is a leading African institution focused on science, engineering, and technology innovation. It advances knowledge in science and technology for sustainable development in Africa and provides access to quality university education to academically talented young people in Africa and empower them to give back to society.
- Host Country: Ghana
- Study Abroad: Study in Africa
- Host Institution: Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
- Category: Undergraduate Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: African Countries
- Funded By: Mastercard Foundation
- Reward: Full tuition | Monthly Stipend | etc
Application Link
6. Makerere University
Makerere University is one of Africa’s oldest universities, known for research excellence and leadership. This partnership will offer scholarships to 1,000 academically bright but economically disadvantaged youth from Africa to study at Makerere University.
- Host Country: Uganda
- Study Abroad: Study in Africa
- Host Institution: Makerere University
- Funded By: Mastercard Foundation
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: Sub-Saharan African Countries
- Reward: Fully Funded Scholarship
Application Link
7. Pan-Atlantic University
Pan-Atlantic University is the first Nigerian university to partner with the Mastercard Foundation on this transformative initiative. It is committed to empowering and educating 650 Mastercard Foundation Scholars over the next ten years.
- Host Country: Nigeria
- Study Abroad: Study in Africa
- Host Institution: Pan-Atlantic University (PAU)
- Funded By: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- Category: Undergraduate Scholarships
- Eligibility: Nigerian students, especially young women in STEM, displaced youth, and students with disabilities
- Reward: Full tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and more
- Application Opens: May 2026. Start preparing
Application Link
8. University of Edinburgh (UofE)
The University of Edinburgh provides world-class postgraduate education. From 2023 to 2030, Phase Two of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh will nurture a community of skilled, entrepreneurial, and justice-oriented climate leaders from across Africa.
- Study Abroad: Study in UK
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships
- Host Provider: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- Host University: University of Edinburgh, UK
- Eligible Countries: African countries (including North Africa)
- Reward: Fully funded tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, travel, study materials etc.
- No IELTS Required (if English is your first language)
Application Link
9. University of Global Health Equity (UGHE)
The University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) is a pioneering health sciences university in Rwanda, dedicated to transforming health education and advancing global health equity.
- Host: Mastercard Foundation
- Study Abroad: Study in Africa
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: African Countries
- Reward: Fully funded, Monthly allowance, Laptop, Health Insurance, etc
Application Link
10. University of Gondar
The University of Gondar is the oldest medical school in Ethiopia and was established with the philosophy of a team approach and community-based teaching of health professionals. The University of Gondar (Ethiopia) and Queen’s University (Canada), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, have developed a 10-year program to advance inclusive higher education for young people with disabilities, develop new occupational therapy programs and advance research for inclusive education and community-based rehabilitation in Africa.
- Host Country: Ethiopia
- Study Abroad: Study in Africa
- Host Institution: University of Gondar
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Master’s Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: Ethiopia, Somalia, Eritrea, Djibouti, South Sudan
- Reward: Full tuition | Accommodation | Monthly stipend | Academic materials | Health services, and more
Application Link
11. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford partners with Mastercard Foundation to support African leaders through graduate education. Through scholarship, 400 young people will be supported to pursue their taught master’s degrees in a variety of academic disciplines related to pandemic preparedness and response in Africa.
- Host Country: United Kingdom (UK)
- Study Abroad: Study in UK
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Master’s Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All African Countries
- Reward: Full scholarship coverage, living allowance, and lots more
Application Link
12. University of Rwanda
The University of Rwanda plays a key role in national development through education and research. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda is committed to developing Africa’s next generation of transformative leaders, with a focus on women pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
- Host County: Rwanda
- Study Abroad: Study in Africa
- Host: Mastercard Foundation
- Category: Undergraduate Scholarships
- Eligibility: African students (including refugees, displaced youth, and youth with disabilities)
- Reward: full tuition, accommodation, allowance, stipend, laptop, etc
Application Link
13. University of the Western Cape
UWC is known for social justice and inclusive education. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UWC supports academically talented youth from South Africa and other parts of the African continent.
- Host Country: South Africa
- Study Abroad: Study in Africa
- Host: MasterCard Foundation | University of the Western Cape
- Category: Undergraduate Scholarships | Postgraduate Scholarships | Master’s Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All African Countries
- Reward: Full Scholarship coverage | Accommodation | Monthly Stipends | Laptop | Travel Costs
Application Link
14. University of Toronto
The University of Toronto offers world-class graduate education and research opportunities. Prospective Mastercard Foundation Scholars will develop their capacity and networks to engage in diverse healthcare professions and healthcare ecosystems in Africa and globally.
- Host Country: Canada
- Study Abroad: Study in Canada
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All Sub-Saharan African Countries
- Reward: Full Scholarship, Monthly Stipends, Accommodation, laptop, Airfare Ticket, etc
Application Link
15. African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS)
The African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) is a pan-African network of centres of excellence for postgraduate education, research, and outreach in mathematical sciences, developing Africa’s next generation of scientific leaders.
- Level of Study: Postgraduate (Master’s)
- Country/City of Study: Multi-country (Rwanda, Ghana, Senegal, Cameroon, South Africa)
16. African Leadership Academy (ALA)
African Leadership Academy develops Africa’s future leaders through pre-university education focused on leadership, entrepreneurship, and African studies. ALA seeks to transform Africa by developing a powerful network of young leaders who are ready to accelerate the continent’s growth.
- Level of Study: Pre-university Diploma
- Country/City of Study: South Africa / Johannesburg
African Leadership Academy enables lasting peace and shared prosperity by identifying, developing and connecting Africa’s future leaders.
At ALA, you will begin your journey toward changing the world.
Note: Applications for the Class of 2027 will open on July 1, 2026
17. Ashesi University
Ashesi University is a private, non-profit institution with a mission to educate a new generation of ethical, entrepreneurial leaders in Africa. Ashesi University is known for its emphasis on ethical leadership, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven education.
- Level of Study: Undergraduate
- Country/City of Study: Ghana / Accra
18. EARTH University
EARTH University is partnered with the Mastercard Foundation to provide scholarships to young leaders from disadvantaged communities around the globe. Approximately one-third of the scholars will come from Sub-Saharan Africa and the rest from Latin America and the Caribbean. EARTH University focuses on sustainable agriculture, environmental science, and leadership for sustainable development.
- Level of Study: Undergraduate
- Country/City of Study: Costa Rica
In addition to providing scholarships for young leaders, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at EARTH integrates services such as mentoring, career counselling, service-learning opportunities, and internships.
19. International Institute for Water and Environmental Engineering (2iE)
2iE’s vision is to reinforce its status as a socially responsible African center of excellence in education, research, and innovation while significantly contributing to Africa’s economic and social development. 2iE specializes in water management, environmental engineering, and sustainable development.
- Level of Study: Undergraduate, Master’s
- Country/City of Study: Burkina Faso / Ouagadougou
20. Université Gaston Berger (UGB)
The Université Gaston Berger (UGB) is a higher education institution in Senegal created to meet the nation’s demand for qualified professionals and contribute to the realization of employment policy. This scholarship aims to recruit and educate 1,000 young people from hard-to-reach communities in Senegal and Francophone Africa, with a specific focus on young women (70%), as well as refugees and displaced youth (10%) and young people with disabilities (9%).
- Level of Study: Master’s
- Country/City of Study: Senegal/Saint-Louis
It provide experiential learning in key academic programs relevant to Young Africa Works Senegal, including Digital, Health, Agriculture and Engineering.
21. University of Abomey-Calavi
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Abomey- Calavi is a first-of-its-kind program in the Republic of Benin that aims to contribute to creating the country’s future political, economic and social leaders. The University of Abomey-Calavi is the oldest and largest public university in Benin.
- Level of Study: Undergraduate
- Country/City of Study: Benin / Abomey-Calavi
22. University of British Columbia (UBC)
Building on the Program’s success, the second phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of British Columbia will focus on forestry, agriculture, and water and land management as key enablers of sustainable entrepreneurship and community-led development.
- Level of Study: Master’s
- Country/City of Study: Canada / Vancouver
23. University of California, Berkeley
UC Berkeley is based in the Center for African Studies , the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley supported over 120 undergraduate and master’s degree students from 2012 to 2020. Students seeking doctoral degrees are not eligible for this program. Going forward through 2030, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley will support over 200 master’s degree students.
- Level of Study: Master’s
- Country/City of Study: USA / California
24. University of Cambridge, UK
The University of Cambridge offers prestigious scholarships focused on leadership and academic excellence. Cambridge is one of the world’s top ten leading universities, upto 1,025 scholarships (PhD, master’s degrees and certificate programs) will be awarded to young people pursuing careers related to climate resilience and sustainability.
- Level of Study: Master’s
- Country/City of Study: UK / Cambridge
25. University of Cape Town (UCT)
University of Cape Town is a leading African university known for academic excellence and research impact. UCT is committed, through innovative research and scholarship, to grapple with the key issues of our natural and social worlds.
- Level of Study: Master’s
- Country/City of Study: South Africa / Cape Town
26. McGill University
McGill University is a globally recognized institution known for research and academic excellence. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University brings together gifted leaders and changemakers from across Sub-Saharan Africa at the master’s level who aspire to improve and transform nutrition, public health, public policy, and sustainable agriculture across Africa.
- Level of Study: Master’s
- Country/City of Study: Canada / Montreal
27. Sciences Po
Sciences Po specializes in postgraduate courses in the humanities and social sciences, offering an in-depth academic experience for those passionate about understanding and addressing societal challenges.
- Level of Study: Master’s
- Country/City of Study: France / Paris
28. Université Mohammed VI Polytechnique (UM6P)
By fostering exploration and critical thinking, UM6P prepares the next generation of African leaders and thinkers to thrive in a rapidly changing world and shape the continent’s future with innovation and purpose.
- Level of Study: Undergraduate, Master’s
- Country/City of Study: Morocco/ Benguerir
29. United States International University-Africa (USIU-A)
USIU-Africa offers American-style education with strong global programs. It promote the discovery and application of knowledge, the acquisition of skills and the development of intellect and character in a manner which prepares students to contribute effectively and ethically as citizens of a changing and increasingly technological world.
- Level of Study: Undergraduate
- Country/City of Study: Kenya / Nairobi
30. University of Pretoria (UP)
The University of Pretoria is a leading research university who aims to support academically gifted African youth facing economic and social barriers who are committed to effecting positive change on the continent.
- Level of Study: Undergraduate, Postgraduate
- Country/City of Study: South Africa / Pretoria
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How to Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Fully Funded Scholarships
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarships are fully funded, but applicants must go through the partner universities’ application processes. You cannot apply directly to the Mastercard Foundation itself.
Here’s a clear guide on how to apply:
- Identify a Partner University scholarships as list above
- Check their eligibility requirements
- Prepare required documents
- Apply for university admission – Apply directly to your chosen partner university.
- Complete the scholarship application
- Interview & selection process – Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews (virtual or in-person).
Apply to this fully funded online scholarship Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at Arizona State University (ASU) 2026 (Online Graduate Certificate) | Fully-Funded
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Deadline
Deadline varies – check each scholarship above for its deadlines
