Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program supports young people, primarily young Africans, with scholarships and leadership development to pursue education, contribute to communities, and enter fulfilling work.
Funder: Mastercard Foundation
Due Dates: Partner-specific deadlines (check the chosen institution)
Funding Amounts: Scholarship support includes tuition, accommodation, academic materials, and academic and psychosocial support
Summary: Supports talented, service-oriented young people, primarily young Africans, to pursue education, develop leadership, and transition into fulfilling work.
Key Information: Scholarships are available only through partner institutions; PhD candidates are not supported.
Description
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global scholarship and leadership initiative for talented, service-oriented young people, primarily young Africans. Implemented through partner universities and non-governmental organizations, it combines educational access with support during study and the transition into dignified and fulfilling work. Its broader goal is to build a network of young people and institutions driving inclusive and equitable socio-economic change in Africa.
The program supports secondary, undergraduate, and master’s education, with eligible degrees and majors determined by each partner. It emphasizes recruiting young women, persons with disabilities, and forcibly displaced young people. Scholars receive financial, academic, and psychosocial support alongside mentoring and leadership development to help them pursue their aspirations and contribute to their communities.
