Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Partner-delivered scholarships for young people pursuing secondary, undergraduate, or master’s study, primarily in Africa.
Am I eligible?At a glance
Study level
High School, Undergraduate, Master’s
Destination
Partner institutions
Funding
Comprehensive support
Eligible applicants
Partner-specific
Overview
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program works through partner universities and organisations to support young people pursuing secondary, undergraduate, and master’s study. Eligibility, programmes, and timelines are set by each partner.
What this scholarship covers
Tuition fees
Included
Accommodation
Included
Books and academic materials
Included
Mentoring and leadership development
Included
Return air ticket home
May be included
The programme describes financial, psychosocial, and academic support that can include tuition, accommodation, books, mentoring, counselling, leadership development, and travel support where necessary.
Are you eligible?
Eligibility review
Based on the provider’s published information
International students
See official criteria
Domestic students
See official criteria
Scholarship scope
Foundation scholarship
Last eligibility check
October 10, 2026
Who can apply
- Citizenship
- Applicant group: Primarily Africa / partner-specific.
- International eligibility
- Eligible nationalities are set by the provider; see the official criteria for the current list.
Academic requirements
- Minimum grades / GPANot published
- No fixed minimum grade is listed for this scholarship. Check the provider’s current call for academic requirements.
Official eligibility summary
Generally intended for talented, service-oriented young people who meet the eligibility rules of a participating partner institution.
Nationality & residence
- Eligibility is determined by each partner institution
Academic background
- Programmes and admission criteria are set by each partner
Requirements that vary
Partner institutions manage their own selection process, programmes, fees, and deadlines.
- Eligible programmes
- Application materials
- Admission requirements
- Deadlines
Required documents
- Partner institution application materials
How to apply
- 1
Find a Mastercard Foundation partner university or organisation for your level of study.
- 2
Check that partner’s eligibility rules and dates.
- 3
Apply through the partner — the Foundation does not accept direct applications.
Application timeline
Application cycle
Deadline varies
Each partner university or organisation sets its own application dates. Confirm dates on the provider’s official page.
Always confirm the latest deadline on the official provider website.
Official source
Mastercard Foundation
Official programme provider
Last checked October 10, 2026
Your next steps
- 01Find an official partner institution.
- 02Review its scholarship requirements.
- 03Confirm its deadline.
- 04Apply directly to the partner.
Frequently asked questions
Do I apply to the Mastercard Foundation directly?
No. Partner universities and organisations manage applications and selection.