The Mastercard Foundation Scholars and Fellowship Programme is accepting applications through its partner institutions for 2026, offering fully funded scholarships and leadership development opportunities to talented young Africans committed to creating positive change in their communities.
The programme is more than a scholarship—it is a global initiative that develops the next generation of transformative leaders by providing access to quality education, leadership training, career support, and a lifelong network of scholars and alumni.
About
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program works with universities, colleges, and non-governmental organizations to enable academically talented, service-oriented young people to pursue higher education while developing the skills needed to become leaders and changemakers.
The programme aims to support inclusive and equitable socio-economic development across Africa by investing in young people who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to giving back to their communities.
Programme Objectives
The programme seeks to:
- Expand access to quality higher education.
- Develop ethical and transformative leaders.
- Support successful transitions into dignified employment.
- Promote entrepreneurship and innovation.
- Strengthen inclusive economic growth across Africa.
- Build a global network of scholars and alumni committed to social impact.
Scholarship Benefits
Benefits vary by partner institution but typically include:
- Full tuition fees.
- Accommodation.
- Living stipend.
- Books and learning materials.
- Leadership development programmes.
- Mentorship and academic support.
- Career readiness training.
- Internship and networking opportunities.
- Alumni engagement after graduation.
Partner institutions may also provide additional support depending on their programme structure.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility requirements differ by partner institution, but applicants are generally expected to:
- Be academically talented.
- Demonstrate leadership potential.
- Show commitment to community service.
- Meet the admission requirements of the chosen institution.
- Be citizens of an African country (for most African programmes).
Specific eligibility criteria, age limits, and academic qualifications are determined by each participating institution.
Where Can You Study?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program partners with universities and higher education institutions across Africa and other regions. Applicants must apply directly through participating institutions rather than through the Mastercard Foundation itself.
Each institution manages its own admissions process, eligibility criteria, deadlines, and scholarship selection.
Programme Impact
Since its launch, the programme has achieved remarkable milestones, including:
- More than 58,000 scholarships awarded.
- 71% of scholars are young women.
- Over 20,000 alumni worldwide.
- Partnerships with 62 institutions and organizations.
- More than US$6.5 billion invested in education and youth transitions.
- A target of 100,000 scholarships by 2030.
Leadership and Professional Development
Scholars benefit from much more than financial support. The programme offers:
- Leadership development.
- Community engagement opportunities.
- Entrepreneurship support.
- Career coaching.
- Professional networking.
- Transition-to-work programmes.
- Access to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Network.
- Participation in events such as the Baobab Summit.
Inclusive Approach
The Mastercard Foundation is committed to ensuring that higher education is accessible to diverse groups of young people, including:
- Young women.
- Refugees and displaced persons.
- Persons with disabilities.
- Marginalized and underserved communities.
The programme promotes inclusive education pathways that enable young people to achieve meaningful educational and career outcomes.
Mastercard Foundation Scholars and Fellowship Programme Applications Open in 2026
How to Apply
To apply:
- Identify a participating Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program partner institution.
- Review the institution’s admission and scholarship requirements.
- Submit an application for admission through the partner institution.
- Complete any additional scholarship documentation required by that institution.
- Await notification from the university regarding admission and scholarship decisions.
Applications are submitted through individual partner institutions, not directly to the Mastercard Foundation.
Important Notes
- There is no single application portal for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
- Application deadlines vary by institution.
- Admission to a partner university does not automatically guarantee a scholarship.
- Applicants should only use official partner university application platforms.
Why Apply?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers an outstanding opportunity to obtain a world-class education while developing leadership skills, building lifelong professional networks, and contributing to Africa’s social and economic transformation. Graduates become part of a growing global community committed to creating lasting impact through education, innovation, and service.
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