The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global scholarship initiative that supports talented, service-oriented young people by providing access to higher education and developing the next generation of transformative leaders.
The programme works with universities, NGOs, scholars, and alumni networks to help young people access inclusive education, transition into meaningful employment, and create positive change in their communities.
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program aims to build a network of young African leaders and institutions working toward inclusive and equitable socio-economic development across Africa.
Through partnerships with higher education institutions, the programme provides comprehensive support to Scholars throughout their academic journeys and transition into the workplace.
Scholarship Benefits
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides support that enables students to pursue higher education and develop leadership skills.
Benefits include:
- Access to higher education opportunities
- Academic and transition support
- Leadership development opportunities
- Connection to a global Scholars and Alumni community
- Support preparing for meaningful employment
The programme has committed more than 58,000 scholarships for young African leaders and aims to expand this impact to 100,000 young people by 2030.
Program Impact
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has achieved significant global impact:
- 58,000+ Scholars supported
- 71% of Scholars are young women
- 20,000+ alumni worldwide
- 100,000 scholarship goal by 2030
- $6.5 billion USD disbursed toward education and transition programmes in Africa
- 62 global partners involved
Who Can Apply?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is designed for talented young people who demonstrate:
- Academic potential
- Leadership ability
- Commitment to community service
- Desire to create positive social impact
Applicants apply through participating partner institutions rather than directly through the Mastercard Foundation. The Foundation provides a list of affiliated institutions where applicants can learn about application opportunities.
Areas of Focus
The programme supports young people through:
- Education and transitions
- Digital skills development
- Support for refugees and displaced persons
Partner Institutions and Application Process
Interested applicants should:
- Identify a Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program partner institution.
- Review the university or institution’s eligibility requirements.
- Submit an application through the institution’s official process.
The Foundation provides resources including application guidance and scholarship application tips to help applicants prepare stronger applications.
Alumni Network and Leadership Opportunities
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Network connects graduates from various Mastercard Foundation programmes, including the Scholars Program, Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), Ashoka, Youth Think Tank, Anzisha Prize, and Youth Forward initiatives.
The network supports alumni as they continue driving social and economic change.
Scholarship Details Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program |
| Provider | Mastercard Foundation |
| Target Group | Young African leaders and talented students |
| Study Level | Higher education |
| Scholarships Available | 58,000+ committed |
| Goal | 100,000 scholarships by 2030 |
| Focus Areas | Education, digital skills, refugees and displaced persons |
| Application Method | Through partner institutions |
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