Overview

The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program is a significant initiative designed to educate and develop academically qualified but economically disadvantaged young people from Africa. The program aims to equip these students with the knowledge and leadership skills necessary to contribute to the economic and social transformation of the African continent. This $500 million program intends to provide scholarships to 15,000 African students over a 10-year period.

Coverage

This is a fully-funded, comprehensive scholarship that provides holistic support to its scholars. Financial assistance covers tuition fees, uniforms, books and supplies, transportation, accommodation, and living stipends. Beyond financial aid, the program also focuses on 21st-century skill-building, including critical thinking, communication, and entrepreneurship. Scholars receive transition support through mentoring, career counseling, internships, leadership development, and other life skills coaching. Graduates also become part of an alumni network offering resources and opportunities for consultation.

Eligibility

This scholarship program is open to citizens of Sub-Saharan Africa. Applicants must be academically qualified and demonstrate economic disadvantage. It is crucial to note that specific eligibility criteria, including academic requirements and financial need definitions, will vary by each participating host institution or university. Therefore, prospective applicants must check the detailed requirements of their chosen institution.

Requirements

Applicants are expected to be academically strong and come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. A core component of the program is the scholars' commitment to give back to their communities and countries of origin. This commitment is demonstrated through volunteerism, community service, and other forms of experiential learning. Specific document requirements for application are not generally stated and will depend on the individual university's application process.

How to apply

Applications for the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program must be submitted directly to one of the participating universities or institutions. The application process, required documents, and specific deadlines are determined by each individual institution. It is highly recommended that interested students visit the websites of their preferred host institutions and the official MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program website for comprehensive and up-to-date application instructions.

Notes

The program partners with various universities in the USA, Canada, Costa Rica, and several African countries, selected for their academic excellence and relevance to growth sectors in Africa such as manufacturing, telecommunications, banking, and agriculture. The deadlines mentioned in the source (January-July 2016) refer to past application cycles; current deadlines must be verified on the official university websites.

How to Apply

Read the full requirements

Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.

Gather your documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.

Request recommendation letters

Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.

Write your motivation letter

Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.

Proofread and submit early

Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.

Go to Official Application

At a Glance

Who Can Apply

Bachelor's degree students or Bachelor's graduates seeking a Master's or Master's graduates seeking a PhD

Destination: USA, South Africa, Ghana +more

Funding Coverage

Tuition · Living allowance · Airfare · Health insurance

Typical Documents Needed

Secondary school certificate
Transcripts
2 recommendation letters
Motivation letter
English proficiency test

Full document guide →

Fully Funded

Dec 1, 2026

JSFA

Jefferson Scholars Foundation at the University of Virginia

University of Virginia Jefferson Scholarship 2027 in USA (Fully Funded)

USA undergraduate

MasterCard Foundation Scholarship Program for Africans

Overview

Coverage

Eligibility

Requirements

How to apply

Notes

Source & Verification

How to Apply

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At a Glance

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