Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program is a prestigious and impactful initiative aimed at providing access to quality education and leadership development opportunities for academically talented but financially disadvantaged young individuals from Africa. This program seeks to contribute to social and economic transformation on the African continent by empowering the next generation of leaders, change-makers, and entrepreneurs. The primary objective of the program is to support young Africans in pursuing higher education and acquiring the skills and knowledge necessary to drive positive change in their communities and contribute to Africa’s development.
Benefits
Here are some common financial and other benefits that are typically provided through Mastercard Scholarship Programs:
Full or Partial Tuition Coverage:
The Mastercard Scholarship Programs offer full or partial coverage of tuition fees for the duration of the recipient’s undergraduate or postgraduate degree program.
Living Expenses:
This program provides a stipend or allowance to cover living expenses such as accommodation, meals, transportation, and textbooks.
Healthcare Coverage:
Health insurance or access to healthcare services may be included to ensure that scholars can maintain good health during their studies.
Travel Expenses:
Scholars also receive support for travel expenses, including round-trip airfare to and from their home country.
Academic Support:
Scholars often receive academic support in the form of mentorship, tutoring, or access to additional resources to help them excel in their studies.
Leadership and Professional Development:
Many Mastercard Scholarship Programs emphasize leadership development and offer workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities to help students build their leadership and professional skills.
Internships and Work Opportunities:
This scholarship program facilitates internships or work opportunities to help scholars gain practical experience in their chosen field.
Community Engagement:
Scholars are encouraged to engage in community service or other social impact projects to give back to their communities.
Partner Universities
Here are some of the partner universities and institutions that are involved in the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program.
University of Cape Town – South Africa
African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) – Multiple African countries
Ashesi University – Ghana
McGill University – Canada (Note: Some scholars may also study at partner institutions outside Africa)
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) – Ghana
University of Pretoria – South Africa
Makerere University – Uganda
University of Gondar – Ethiopia
University of Rwanda – Rwanda
University of Edinburgh – United Kingdom (Note: Some scholars may also study at partner institutions outside Africa)
Offered Courses OR Programs
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program typically covers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields of study, including but not limited to:
Social Sciences
Business and Economics
Engineering
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
Public Health and Medicine
Education
Humanities and Arts
Law
Information Technology and Computer Science
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for the Mastercard Scholarship Program can vary depending on the specific institution or organization offering the scholarship. However, we will provide you with a general overview of the typical eligibility criteria for this scholarship program, which aims to provide financial support to students from disadvantaged backgrounds, particularly those from Africa.
Citizenship/Nationality:
The Mastercard Scholarship Program targets students from African countries. So, applicants must typically be citizens or permanent residents of an eligible African country.
Academic Excellence:
Applicants are usually required to demonstrate strong academic performance. This may include a minimum GPA or specific academic achievements, such as high standardized test scores (e.g., SAT or ACT).
Financial Need:
One of the primary goals of the Mastercard Scholarship Program is to support students who lack the financial means to pursue higher education. Therefore, applicants are often required to demonstrate a significant financial need. This may involve providing financial documentation or statements of income.
Leadership and Community Involvement:
Many Mastercard scholarships prioritize applicants who have shown leadership potential and a commitment to community service. Applicants may need to provide evidence of their involvement in extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or leadership roles.
Admission to Participating Institution:
To be eligible for the Mastercard Scholarship, students need to be admitted to a participating institution that has a partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. These institutions are usually universities and colleges that have agreed to offer the scholarship program.
Undergraduate or Postgraduate Level:
The Mastercard Scholarship Program is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate (master’s or doctoral) studies. Applicants should check the specific level of study for which the scholarship is being offered.
Specific Field of Study:
Some Mastercard scholarships may be limited to specific fields of study or academic programs, such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), social sciences, or business-related disciplines.
Personal Statement/Essay:
Applicants are required to submit a personal statement or essay explaining their educational and career goals, as well as why they are a suitable candidate for the scholarship.
Letters of Recommendation:
The application process may require applicants to submit letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or community leaders who can speak to their character and potential.
Application Process
The application process for the Mastercard Scholarship Program can be highly competitive, so it’s essential to follow these steps carefully:
Research Eligibility and Requirements:
Before applying, research the eligibility criteria and specific requirements for the program. Eligibility criteria can vary depending on the partner university and program level (undergraduate or postgraduate).
Select a Partner University:
The Mastercard Foundation collaborates with various partner universities around the world. Research and choose a university and program that aligns with your academic and career goals.
Prepare Your Academic Documents:
Gather all required academic documents, including transcripts, certificates, and standardized test scores (e.g., SAT, TOEFL, IELTS). Ensure that your academic qualifications meet the university’s admission criteria.
Write a Stellar Personal Statement:
Craft a compelling personal statement that highlights your academic achievements, leadership potential, commitment to community service, and vision for contributing to positive change in your home country.
Secure Letters of Recommendation:
Obtain strong letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or employers who can speak to your character, academic abilities, and potential for leadership.
Submit Your Application:
Carefully complete the university’s online application for admission and the Mastercard Scholarship Program application form. Pay attention to submission deadlines, which can vary by institution.
Prepare for Interviews (if required):
Some universities may require scholarship applicants to participate in interviews. Be prepared to discuss your achievements, goals, and commitment to making a difference.
Follow-Up and Stay Informed:
After submitting your application, keep an eye on your email for notifications regarding the status of your application. Be responsive and prompt in providing any additional information requested.
Conclusion
The Mastercard Scholarship Program is a remarkable initiative that has opened doors to education and opportunities for countless students across Africa. Its eligibility criteria reflect the foundation’s commitment to identifying and supporting talented individuals who have the potential to create positive change in their communities. To successfully navigate the application process, it’s essential to start early, research thoroughly, and present a strong case for why you should be selected as a Mastercard Scholar. By following these steps and demonstrating your commitment to education and community development, you can increase your chances of becoming a part of this life-changing program. Good luck!