Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2025/2026 for International Students: A Complete Guide
For ambitious, talented, and underprivileged students from Africa and other developing regions, the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program (MCFSP) has become a transformative gateway to world-class education and leadership development. The 2025/2026 edition of this prestigious scholarship is now a beacon of hope for many international students aspiring to study at leading universities across the globe.
In this blog post, we explore the eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, deadlines, partner institutions, and tips to secure the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship for the 2025/2026 academic year. Whether you’re a high school graduate or a university student seeking postgraduate education, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What is the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship is an initiative by the Mastercard Foundation, a global non-profit that aims to advance education, financial inclusion, and entrepreneurship in Africa. Launched in 2012, the program seeks to provide academically talented yet economically disadvantaged young people with access to high-quality education and leadership training.
Over the years, the program has partnered with world-renowned institutions to deliver full scholarships to deserving students from Sub-Saharan Africa and other developing regions. It emphasizes a commitment to community service, ethical leadership, and returning to one’s home country to contribute to development.
Objectives of the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship goes beyond funding education; it’s designed to cultivate a new generation of transformational leaders who will drive social and economic change in their communities. Its main objectives include:
Supporting academically talented but financially challenged students.
Encouraging leadership, social responsibility, and ethical decision-making.
Fostering inclusive education and gender equality.
Promoting a strong alumni network for future collaboration and mentorship.
Addressing socio-economic barriers to education.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for the 2025/2026 Mastercard Foundation Scholarship may vary slightly depending on the partner university, but the general requirements include:
Citizenship
Applicants must be citizens of Sub-Saharan African countries or other developing regions, depending on the university.
Some partner institutions may consider refugees and stateless persons living in Africa.
Academic Excellence
Strong academic track record. Must meet the specific academic requirements for the chosen program at the partner university.
Must have completed secondary education for undergraduate scholarships or hold a bachelor’s degree for postgraduate scholarships.
Financial Need
Demonstrated financial need is a critical factor. Applicants must prove that they come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Leadership Potential
Proven track record of community service, social entrepreneurship, or leadership.
Commitment to giving back to one’s community or country after graduation.
Age Limit
Typically under 35 for postgraduate programs. Some undergraduate programs may have stricter age limits.
Levels of Study Covered
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship supports
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s degree) programs.
Postgraduate (Master’s degree) programs.
PhD programs are generally not supported under the current Mastercard Foundation Scholarship scheme.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship is fully funded, covering almost every aspect of a student’s academic journey, including:
Tuition Fees
Full tuition fees paid directly to the university.
Accommodation and Living Expenses
On-campus housing or a living allowance for off-campus accommodation.
Monthly stipends to cover meals, transport, and personal needs.
Books and Academic Materials
Costs of books, supplies, and other educational materials.
Travel Costs
Round-trip airfare from the home country to the university.
Visa and Health Insurance
Assistance with visa application fees.
Comprehensive medical insurance for the duration of study.
Mentorship and Leadership Development
Access to mentorship programs, leadership workshops, and community service projects.
Mastercard Foundation Partner Universities (2025/2026)
The Foundation collaborates with globally recognized institutions in Africa, North America, and Europe.
Here are some of the key partner universities for the 2025/2026 academic session.
In Africa
Ashesi University (Ghana)
African Leadership University (Rwanda)
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (Ghana)
Makerere University (Uganda)
University of Gondar (Ethiopia)
University of Cape Town (South Africa)
Moi University (Kenya)
In North America
McGill University (Canada)
University of Toronto (Canada)
University of British Columbia (Canada)
Michigan State University (USA)
Arizona State University (USA)
In Europe
Sciences Po (France)
University of Edinburgh (UK)
Note: Not all universities offer both undergraduate and graduate scholarships.
Application Process for Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2025/2026
The application process varies by institution, but the general steps are as follows:
Step 1: Research Partner Universities
Visit the websites of each partner university.
Understand the programs they offer, the levels of study, and the specific application deadlines.
Step 2: Choose Your Program
Select an academic program that aligns with your career goals and interests.
Ensure it is one of the programs supported by the Mastercard Foundation at that university.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application Documents
Most universities will require.
Academic transcripts and certificates
Proof of financial need
Personal statement or motivation letter
Reference letters
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Valid passport or national ID
Proof of leadership or community service
Step 4: Submit Application
Apply directly through the partner university’s admission portal.
Complete both the university application and the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship application, if separate.
Step 5: Await Feedback
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview or asked to provide additional documents.
Successful candidates will receive an official offer of admission and scholarship award.
Important Deadlines
Each partner university sets its own deadline. However, most deadlines for the 2025/2026 academic year fall between September 2025 and February 2026.
Here are a few examples
McGill University: December 1, 2025
University of Toronto: November 15, 2025
Sciences Po: January 2025
University of Edinburgh: November 2025 (for postgraduate)
Ashesi University: March 2025
Always verify dates from the official university website.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Selection
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship is highly competitive. Here are expert tips to help you stand out:
Highlight Leadership and Community Service
Showcase your involvement in non-profit work, school clubs, or social impact projects. Provide evidence and achievements.
Craft a Strong Personal Statement
Explain your financial situation, goals, and how the scholarship will help you give back to your community. Be sincere and passionate.
Get Great References
Secure reference letters from people who know your academic and personal qualities well—teachers, mentors, or employers.
Proofread Your Application
Grammatical mistakes or poorly structured essays can weaken your application. Ask others to review your documents.
Apply Early
Don’t wait until the deadline. Early applications show good planning and interest.
Why Choose the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship?
Besides being fully funded, the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship offers a unique combination of academic support, leadership training, and a global alumni network that will remain beneficial throughout your career.
Key Benefits
- Access to top universities worldwide.
- Opportunity to network with future African changemakers.
- Long-term mentorship and personal development.
- Life-changing experiences and exposure to new cultures.
Alumni Success Stories
The Mastercard Foundation has produced thousands of success stories. Alumni have gone on to:
Establish social enterprises in their home countries.
Work with international organizations like the UN, World Bank, and NGOs.
Serve in leadership roles in government, education, and health sectors.
Pursue further studies and research globally.
FAQs about Mastercard Foundation Scholarship
Q1: Can I apply to more than one partner university?
Yes, but you must complete separate applications for each institution.
Q2: Are English proficiency tests required?
Yes, if your chosen program is taught in English and your previous education wasn’t. Tests like IELTS or TOEFL may be required.
Q3: Is work experience mandatory for a Master’s scholarship?
Not always, but relevant work or volunteer experience strengthens your application.
Q4: Do I have to return to my country after graduation?
Yes. Scholars are encouraged to return home to contribute to community and national development.
Q5: Can I defer my scholarship?
Deferral policies depend on the partner university, but generally, deferrals are not encouraged.
Conclusion
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2025/2026 presents a life-changing opportunity for talented, under-resourced students to access world-class education and join a global network of visionary leaders. It is more than just a scholarship—it’s a commitment to building a better, more equitable world.
If you believe in creating change, advancing your education, and making a meaningful impact in your community, then this program is perfectly tailored for you.