Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program supports young Africans through scholarships, education, and leadership development to prepare transformative leaders who advance inclusive socio-economic change.
Funder: Mastercard Foundation
Due Dates: Institution-specific deadlines (check each partner’s program website)
Funding Amounts: Comprehensive scholarship support, including tuition, accommodation, books, and return airfare if necessary
Summary: Supports talented, service-oriented young people, primarily young Africans, through education and leadership development to become transformative leaders.
Key Information: Apply directly through a partner institution; PhD candidates are not currently supported.
Description
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global education and leadership initiative designed to develop the next generation of transformative leaders, primarily young Africans. The Foundation works with higher education institutions, non-governmental organizations, Scholars, and alumni to help young people attain inclusive and relevant education, transition into dignified and fulfilling work, and drive inclusive and equitable socio-economic change in Africa.
The program combines scholarships with academic, psychosocial, and leadership support throughout Scholars’ studies and transitions into work. It serves young people from underrepresented backgrounds and emphasizes pathways that include women and marginalized groups. Partner institutions are primarily in Africa, with additional partners in North and Central America, Europe, and the Middle East. Each partner manages its own applications and scholarship decisions.
