About Mastercard Foundation Scholarships Programs (Fully Funded) and how to Apply

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers full scholarships to students from Africa, enabling them to pursue education at partner universities around the world. These scholarships cover tuition, accommodation, books, and other related costs.

How to Apply for Mastercard Foundation Scholarships:

1. Identify Eligible Universities: 

   The Mastercard Foundation partners with a number of universities globally. Before applying, check if the university you are interested in is part of the program. Here are a few examples of participating universities:

   - University of Toronto (Canada)

   - University of Edinburgh (UK)

   - McGill University (Canada)

   - Ashesi University (Ghana)

   - African Leadership University (Rwanda/Mauritius)

   - University of Cape Town (South Africa)

2. Check Eligibility Requirements:

   The requirements vary by university, but generally, they include:

   - Being a citizen of an African country

   - Demonstrating academic excellence

   - Showing leadership potential and commitment to giving back to your community

   - Having financial need

3. Apply to a Partner University: 

   - Apply directly to the university you're interested in and indicate your interest in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program in your application.

   - Some universities have a separate scholarship application process, while others may require you to apply for the scholarship as part of your general application.

4. Submit Supporting Documents:

   - You may be required to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, proof of financial need, essays, and a completed application form.

   - Depending on the university, you may also need to demonstrate your leadership qualities and community involvement through personal statements or interviews.

5. Wait for the Results:

   - Universities will evaluate your application and determine if you qualify for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. 

   - If selected, you will be contacted by the university’s admissions office.

Application Websites:

Applications are made through the individual partner universities. Below are links to some of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programs at partner universities:

- University of Toronto: (U of T Mastercard Foundation Scholarships Website )

- University of Edinburgh: (University Of Edinburgh Mastercard Foundation Scholarships )

- McGill University: (McGill Mastercard Foundation Scholarships )

- Ashesi University: (Ashesi Mastercard Foundation Scholarships )

- African Leadership University: (ALU Mastercard Foundation Scholarships )

Check the specific deadlines and processes for each university, as they may vary.

To improve your chances of successfully applying for and obtaining a Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at one of its partner universities, it’s important to focus on several key factors. Here are some strategies for success:

 1. Research the Requirements Thoroughly

   - Know the Eligibility Criteria: Each partner university may have slightly different eligibility criteria, so be sure you meet the requirements for the specific university you are applying to. Key requirements often include:

     - Citizenship from an African country

     - Demonstrated financial need

     - Strong academic performance

     - Leadership potential and community involvement

   - Tailor Your Application to the University: Understand the specific focus areas of the university’s Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, as some institutions emphasize particular areas such as leadership, community impact, or academic excellence.

2. Demonstrate Leadership and Community Involvement

   - Show Leadership Potential: Mastercard Foundation places a high value on individuals with leadership potential. Highlight any leadership roles you’ve held (at school, in your community, in clubs, or organizations) and your impact in those roles.

   - Community Service and Volunteer Work: Demonstrating a strong commitment to giving back to your community is key. Provide concrete examples of projects or initiatives you've been involved in, especially those that have had a positive, lasting impact.

3. Excel Academically

   - Strong Academic Performance: Maintain a high GPA and ensure that your academic records show consistency and commitment to learning.

   - Highlight Academic Achievements: If you’ve received awards, honors, or recognition for your academic work, be sure to highlight these in your application. Include any unique academic projects or research you’ve been part of.

 4. Craft a Strong Personal Statement or Essay

   - Tell Your Story: Be authentic in your essay. Share your personal journey, challenges, and the motivation behind your goals. Explain why education is important to you and how you plan to use it to make a difference.

   - Connect to the Mastercard Foundation’s Values: In your personal statement, explain how your values align with those of the Mastercard Foundation, especially in areas of leadership, social impact, and the betterment of your community.

   - Be Clear and Concise: Focus on clarity and make sure your essay answers the prompt directly. Avoid unnecessary jargon and be concise.

5. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation

   - Choose Recommenders Who Know You Well: Select individuals who can speak to both your academic abilities and your leadership potential, such as teachers, mentors, or community leaders.

   - Provide Clear Guidelines: When asking for recommendations, provide your recommenders with information on the scholarship, your goals, and key points they can focus on to strengthen your application.

 6. Demonstrate Financial Need

   - Be Honest and Transparent: Clearly explain your financial situation and why you need this scholarship to pursue your education. Use specific examples or documents if needed to demonstrate your financial need.

   - Provide Supporting Documents: Be prepared to submit proof of financial need, such as income statements, bank records, or tax returns.

 7. Prepare for Interviews (if required)

   - Some universities may invite shortlisted applicants for interviews. If selected:

     - Practice Speaking About Your Leadership and Community Work: Be ready to discuss how you’ve made a difference in your community and how you plan to continue this work after your education.

     - Understand the University’s Culture and Mission: Research the university and its values so that you can speak to how you will contribute to its community.

     - Be Confident but Humble: Confidence in your abilities is important, but remain humble and focused on how this scholarship can help you make a difference.

 8. Meet All Deadlines

   - Start Early: Give yourself enough time to gather all required documents, write strong essays, and prepare for interviews.

   - Double-Check Requirements: Ensure that your application includes all necessary materials before submission, such as transcripts, essays, recommendation letters, and proof of financial need.

 9. Seek Guidance

   - Talk to Past Scholars: If possible, reach out to previous Mastercard Foundation Scholars for advice and insights on the application process.

   - Utilize Resources: Many universities offer guidance for scholarship applications. Don’t hesitate to reach out to admissions offices for help or clarification.

 10. Stay Motivated and Persistent

   - The selection process is competitive, and it's important to stay positive throughout. Even if you don't succeed in your first attempt, consider reapplying in the next cycle.

By following these strategies and putting in the necessary effort, you will significantly increase your chances of obtaining a Mastercard Foundation Scholarship.