MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program: Fully Funded Scholarships for Africans

Discover how to apply for the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program. Fully funded scholarships for African students to study abroad—undergrad & master’s.

Want to study abroad but worried about money? You’re not in this alone.

Every year, thousands of bright students from Africa miss out on global education opportunities because of cost. That’s where the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program comes in.

This isn’t just a scholarship—it’s a full support system. If you’re selected, it covers your tuition, living expenses, travel, and more. Whether you’re aiming for a bachelor’s or a master’s degree, this program can open doors to top universities around the world.

In this post, We’ll break down how the program works, who can apply, which schools are involved, and how to boost your chances of getting in. No fluff—just clear, real info to help you take the next step.

Let’s get into it.

What Is the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program?

The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program is a fully funded scholarship for African students who show strong academic ability and leadership potential—but lack the financial means to study abroad.

It’s more than just free school. The goal is to help young people from Africa become changemakers in their communities and beyond.

Since the program started, it has supported over 40,000 students at top universities in Africa, North America, and Europe.

What Makes This Program Special?

Unlike most scholarships that just pay tuition, this one supports you throughout your studies—mentally, academically, and financially. You’ll be part of a community that truly wants you to succeed.

What’s Included in the Scholarship?

Here’s what the program typically covers:

• Full tuition fees
• Accommodation and meals
• Books and academic supplies
• Health insurance
• Travel costs (flights to and from school)
• Living stipend (monthly allowance)
• Mentorship and career support
• Support for internships and leadership training

You don’t need to worry about hidden fees. Everything is taken care of so you can focus on learning and growing.

Who Can Apply?

This program is made for students from Africa who are smart, driven, and want to make a difference—but can’t afford to study abroad on their own.

It’s not just about your grades. The program looks at the full picture:
your background, goals, and how you’ve shown leadership or helped your community.

Basic Eligibility

To apply, you should:

• Be a citizen of an African country
• Come from a low-income or disadvantaged background
• Have strong academic results
• Show leadership potential or community involvement
• Want to give back to your home country or region

This applies to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Is There an Age Limit?

Most partner universities prefer:

• Undergraduate students under 25
• Postgraduate students under 35

But this may vary depending on the school. Always check the specific university’s requirements.

What Kind of Student Are They Looking For?

They want real people with real stories. Not just perfect grades.

You’re a good fit if you’ve:

• Volunteered in your community
• Overcome personal or financial struggles
• Started something—like a school club, project, or event
• Helped care for your family or others

In short, if you care and try to make a difference, you’re the kind of person they want.

Partner Universities Around the World

The MasterCard Foundation doesn’t give scholarships directly. Instead, it works with select partner universities around the world.

Each university runs the program on its campus and chooses who gets in. That means the application process, deadlines, and programs offered can vary depending on the school.

Here’s a look at some of the top partner universities where you can study for free through this program:

In the United States:

• Duke University – Known for engineering, policy, and public health
• Michigan State University – Strong in education, agriculture, and development studies
• Arizona State University – Offers tech and innovation-focused programs

In Canada:

• University of Toronto – One of the top schools in the world
• McGill University – Great for sciences, medicine, and global development

In Africa:

• Ashesi University (Ghana) – Focused on leadership and entrepreneurship
• Makerere University (Uganda) – One of Africa’s oldest and largest universities
• University of Cape Town (South Africa) – Offers a wide range of undergrad and postgrad programs

In Europe:

• Sciences Po (France) – Strong in politics, law, and international relations
• University of Edinburgh (UK) – Offers both master’s and undergrad degrees in multiple fields

Each of these schools runs its own version of the Scholars Program. So you’ll need to check their websites for details about:

• Which programs are covered
• Application forms and deadlines
• Required documents

Also Read: Rhodes Scholarship Guide (2026): Study at Oxford for Free

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

You don’t apply directly to the MasterCard Foundation. Instead, you apply through one of the partner universities. Each school runs its own selection process for the scholarship.

Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Choose a Partner University

Pick a university that:

• Offers the program you want to study
• Is a MasterCard Foundation partner
• Accepts students from your country

Tip: Check out at least 2–3 schools so you have options.

Step 2: Visit the University’s Website

Once you pick a school, go to its official website. Search for:

“MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program”

Or visit the Financial Aid or Scholarships section

You’ll find details about:

• What degrees are offered
• How to apply
• Deadlines
• Required documents

Step 3: Apply for Admission to the University

You must first apply to the university like any other student. This means:

• Filling out the online application
• Submitting transcripts and recommendation letters
• Writing a personal statement
• Possibly paying an application fee (some waive it for MCF applicants)

Don’t skip this step. You can’t get the scholarship without getting admitted first.

Step 4: Complete the Scholarship Application (if invited)

Some schools ask for a separate scholarship application. Others may review you automatically. If needed, you’ll submit:

• An essay or personal story
• Extra forms about your finances
• Proof of community involvement or leadership

Watch your email closely—some schools only invite select applicants to apply for the scholarship.

Step 5: Wait for the Results

After reviewing your applications, the school will contact you if you’re selected.

If accepted, they’ll guide you through:

• Visa applications
• Flight bookings
• Pre-departure orientation

Reminder: Each school has its own timeline. Some deadlines are as early as October for the next academic year.

Start now so you don’t miss out.

Example: How It Works at the University of Toronto

To help you understand how the process works in real life, let’s look at the University of Toronto—one of the MasterCard Foundation’s biggest partners in Canada.

This school offers Master’s-level scholarships through the program. If you’re aiming for postgrad studies, here’s how it usually works:

Step 1: Pick an Eligible Program

Not all programs are covered, so the first thing you do is check which ones are available under the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program.

At U of T, it’s often programs related to:

• Public health
• Education
• Development
• Environmental studies
• Engineering and tech (in some cases)

Step 2: Apply to the Program

You apply to the university as you normally would through their graduate application portal. Make sure to:

• Upload all your documents
• Meet the academic requirements
• Mention your interest in the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program (some programs ask this in the form)

Step 3: Apply for the Scholarship

After submitting your program application, U of T will email selected applicants with instructions on how to apply for the scholarship. This second part may ask for:

• An essay or statement of purpose
• A financial background form
• Details about your community impact or leadership

Step 4: Final Selection

If you pass both rounds—program and scholarship—you’ll get a final acceptance package that includes:

• Admission to U of T
• A full scholarship under the MasterCard Foundation
• Support for your travel, housing, and transition to life in Canada

Note: It’s competitive. But people from all over Africa have made it. Some didn’t have perfect grades—but they had passion, purpose, and a strong story.

If you’ve ever led a school club, helped in your community, or kept going when life got tough—your story matters.

Who’s This Scholarship Really For?

This scholarship isn’t just for “top students” with perfect grades. It’s for real people who’ve faced real struggles—and still pushed forward.

Yes, good grades help. But what matters most is who you are, what you’ve done with what you have, and how you plan to use your education to help others.

You Might Be a Strong Fit If You:

• Come from a low-income background
• Have taken on responsibility at a young age
• Have volunteered, started a small project, or helped your community
• Want to solve real problems back home (like education, health, food, inequality)
• Are committed to returning to Africa to make a difference

This Is NOT for You If:

• You’re only applying for the free ride
• You have no interest in giving back or helping others
• You plan to move abroad permanently and never return
• You aren’t willing to work hard or stay involved during the program

Note: The MasterCard Foundation wants changemakers, not just degree-hunters. If you have a clear sense of purpose, you’re already halfway there.

No fancy resume needed. Just honesty, effort, and a drive to lead.

Tips to Boost Your Chances

The competition is real. Thousands apply each year—but the ones who stand out do a few key things right.

Here’s how to give yourself the best shot:

1. Tell Your Story Honestly

Your personal statement or essay is your chance to shine. Don’t just list achievements. Share:

• What challenges you’ve faced
• What motivates you
• How you’ve made a difference, even in small ways
• Why you care about your field of study

Be real. That’s what they’re looking for.

2. Show Leadership (Even Without a Title)

You don’t need to be class president. Leadership can look like:

• Helping siblings with school
• Organizing a study group
• Volunteering at a local event
• Starting a small community project

If you’ve taken initiative—talk about it.

3. Do Your Research

Know the program and the school. In your application, show:

• Why you picked that university
• How the course fits your goals
• What you plan to do after graduation

This proves you’re serious and not just applying to every scholarship you find.

4. Get Strong Recommendation Letters

Ask people who know you well—not just high-ranking officials. A good referee:

• Knows your character
• Can speak about your leadership or work ethic
• Is willing to write a detailed, honest letter

Give them enough time and info to write something meaningful.

5. Stay Organized and Apply Early

Deadlines vary from school to school. Some open in August or September, and close months before the school year starts.

Keep track of:

• Application deadlines
• Required documents
• Scholarship forms
• Emails from the university

Pro Tip: Create a folder or Google Doc for each school you’re applying to. That way, nothing slips through the cracks.

Also Read: Obama Foundation Scholars Program for International Students (2025 Guide)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Got questions? You’re not alone. Here are answers to the most common things people ask about the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program:

Conclusion: Ready to Take the Leap?

If you’re dreaming of studying abroad but money is the wall in your way—the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program could be your chance.

It’s not just a scholarship. It’s a full ride with a purpose: to lift up young leaders from Africa who want to give back and change the game in their communities.

Whether you’re just finishing high school or ready to go for a master’s, this program can open doors you never thought possible.

But you’ve got to act.

Here’s What to Do Next:

• Pick 2–3 partner universities that offer your program
• Check their websites for deadlines and details
• Start your application early
• Write a strong personal story—real, honest, and clear
• Reach out for help if you need it.

Final Tip: Thousands apply every year. But the ones who get in? They’re not always the smartest. They’re the ones who prepare early, stay focused, and tell their story well.

So start today. Your future self will thank you.

Got questions? Drop them in the comments or check out the full list of resources for each university.
And if you found this post helpful, share it with a friend who needs to see it.