Introduction
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, also known as the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, is one of the largest fully funded education and leadership initiatives targeting African youth. Since its launch, it has empowered tens of thousands of talented but resource-constrained students to access world-class education, especially in leading partner institutions like the University of Toronto, Sciences Po, CMU-Africa, and others. In this article, we’ll explore exactly how the Scholars Program works, who is eligible, key benefits, alumni impact, and practical tips for prospective applicants in 2025 and beyond.
Program Overview & Mission
What is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global initiative that enables academically talented African youth facing financial barriers to pursue secondary, undergraduate, or master’s education with holistic support. It’s more than a scholarship – it’s a leadership development and transformational network embedded in the Young Africa Works strategy.
Key milestones and scale
- Launched in 2012 with an initial commitment of USD $500 million for 15,000 scholars
- Over 40,000 scholars have been supported across Africa to date
- Target by 2030: 100,000 scholars across partner universities
- New partnerships such as Pan-Atlantic University Nigeria and UGHE Rwanda expand regional reach
Why this scholarship matters
By removing financial barriers and pairing scholars with leadership training, mentorship, internships, and alumni networks, the program aspires to produce transformative leaders contributing to social and economic development across Africa.
How the Scholarship Works: Structure, Coverage & Partner Model
Partner institutions and network
Applicants do not apply directly to the Mastercard Foundation but through partner universities, each with its own deadlines and processes.
Examples of partner universities:
University of Toronto, Sciences Po, McGill, UC Berkeley, CMU-Africa, Arizona State University, University of Cambridge, Makerere University, and Ashesi University.
What costs and services are covered
Scholars receive comprehensive funding that typically includes:
- Tuition and fees
- Accommodation and meals
- Travel and health insurance
- Research or project grants
- Mentorship, leadership training, and internships
- Psychosocial and academic support
- Alumni network access
At CMU-Africa, scholars receive support for tuition, living expenses, and entrepreneurship projects. At Cambridge, scholars are offered placements at Africa-based organizations after graduation.
Program phases and modalities
- Undergraduate phase: Some partnerships allow students to start undergraduate programs in Africa before transferring abroad or continuing hybrid degrees.
- Graduate phase: Partner universities such as Berkeley and Sciences Po offer master’s-level scholarships.
- Online and hybrid models: Initiatives such as ASU’s Kigali hub enable students to study virtually while residing in Africa.
Selection and admissions process
Eligible students must first secure admission to the host university’s academic program before being nominated for the Scholars track. Some institutions only consider applicants who meet early admission deadlines.
Eligibility & Application Strategy
General eligibility
Requirements vary by partner, but applicants generally must:
- Be citizens of an African country
- Show outstanding academic performance
- Demonstrate leadership and a commitment to community service
- Preferably represent underrepresented groups such as women, refugees, and persons with disabilities
- Meet university-specific admission criteria such as English proficiency and test scores
Application tips
- Tell a compelling story of resilience and purpose
- Provide concrete examples of leadership or community service
- Clearly show how you plan to give back after graduation
- Follow submission instructions carefully and meet all deadlines
Step-by-step how to apply
- Research eligible partner universities
- Check eligibility and required documents
- Apply for university admission first
- Complete the Mastercard Scholars application if invited
- Wait for partner institution’s nomination
- Accept offer and attend onboarding sessions
Impact, Alumni & Critique
Measured outcomes
- Over 40,000 scholars supported since inception
- Alumni working in public service, technology, healthcare, and entrepreneurship
- Approximately half of graduates return to Africa within two years of completion
- A longitudinal study, Imprint of Education, continues tracking alumni career outcomes
Alumni stories and influence
Examples include Ghanaian entrepreneur Akpene Diata Hoggar and Rwandan engineer Jean Pierre Imanirumva, both alumni now mentoring young Africans. The Mastercard Foundation Alumni Network fosters mentorship, collaboration, and joint community initiatives across Africa.
Strengths
- Global reach and scalability
- Holistic support beyond tuition
- Integration of mentorship and leadership development
- Alignment with Africa-focused economic strategy
Critiques and challenges
- Sustainability concerns as the program scales
- Uneven access across African regions
- Brain drain risk when graduates remain abroad
- Coordination challenges among multiple partners
Comparison & Positioning
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship compares favorably with other prestigious awards such as Mandela Rhodes, Chevening, and Rhodes Scholarships.
While those programs primarily serve postgraduate or elite institutions, Mastercard Foundation distinguishes itself through:
- Broader inclusion of undergraduate and graduate studies
- Strong African institutional presence
- Emphasis on social impact and leadership
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition, accommodation, living expenses, travel, and health insurance for selected scholars.
Can I apply directly to Mastercard Foundation?
No. Applications are processed through partner universities and organizations.
Does it support PhD programs?
Generally, no. The program focuses on undergraduate and master’s levels.
Are refugees and persons with disabilities eligible?
Yes. The foundation encourages applications from marginalized and displaced youth.
What if I drop out or defer my studies?
Each partner institution has its own policy. Some allow deferral; others may revoke funding.
How competitive is it?
Highly competitive. Only a small percentage of applicants are selected annually.
Conclusion
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program remains one of the most ambitious educational empowerment initiatives on the African continent. Through its combination of full financial support, leadership training, and alumni engagement, it creates a ripple effect of transformation in communities across Africa. Although it faces sustainability and coordination challenges, its success stories and measurable outcomes prove that investing in young African leaders yields long-term benefits.
If you are a passionate, service-driven student from Africa, this scholarship could change your life. Begin by researching partner universities, preparing your essays, and applying early to join this growing network of changemakers.
Explore partner institutions, sign up for alerts, and start your Mastercard Foundation Scholarship application journey today.