Apply for the Mastercard Launch Graduate Program 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal — a full-time software engineering role for graduates ready to build a career in fintech innovation. Learn, code, and create impact globally.
Start Your Global Tech Career with Mastercard’s Launch Graduate Program in 2026
Are you a soon-to-be graduate ready to build a career at the intersection of technology, finance, and innovation? The Mastercard Launch Graduate Program 2026 offers you the opportunity to develop cutting-edge skills, work on transformative payment technologies, and contribute to a sustainable global economy — all while being mentored by industry leaders at one of the world’s most respected companies.
Applications are now open for Mastercard’s Software Engineering Launch Graduate Program 2026, based in Lisbon, Portugal. This full-time graduate role provides hands-on experience in developing secure, scalable, and high-performing technology solutions used by millions of people every day.
About Mastercard
Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry, operating in over 200 countries and territories. Its mission is to power economies and empower people by making transactions safe, simple, smart, and accessible.
Through innovation, data, and partnerships, Mastercard enables businesses, governments, and individuals to connect with financial systems and achieve their greatest potential. From contactless payments to AI-driven fraud detection, Mastercard continues to shape the future of digital finance.
“At Mastercard, we believe in connecting everyone to endless, priceless possibilities.”
About the Launch Graduate Program
The Launch Program is Mastercard’s signature early-career development initiative designed to help students transition seamlessly from university to the professional world.
This program is more than just a job — it’s an accelerated career pathway combining hands-on technical experience, mentorship, and professional development workshops that prepare you for long-term success in the technology industry.
Program Highlights
- Location: Lisbon, Portugal
- Category: Software Engineering
- Type: Full-time, Permanent
- Application Deadline: November 21, 2025
- Start Date: 2026
What Makes Mastercard’s Launch Program Unique?
The Launch Graduate Program is designed to help young professionals grow into global leaders through four pillars of learning and engagement:
1. Orientation and Onboarding
Participants begin with a four-day global orientation that introduces Mastercard’s culture, mission, and innovation-driven mindset. You’ll learn how Mastercard uses technology to power inclusion, digital transformation, and financial access worldwide.
2. Technical and Professional Development
You’ll undergo technical training in Mastercard’s systems, policies, and best practices, covering software development, cybersecurity, and cloud technologies.
Workshops on communication, teamwork, and leadership help build the soft skills needed for success in a global organization.
3. Innovation Week
Launch participants take part in Innovation Week, a creative challenge where cross-functional teams design new technology-driven solutions for real-world problems.
4. Social Impact and Volunteering
Mastercard believes in being a force for good. Participants join a global volunteer challenge, applying their skills to social causes such as digital inclusion, youth empowerment, and community engagement.
Role Overview: Software Engineer, Launch Graduate Program 2026
As a Software Engineer I in the Launch Program, you will be part of Mastercard’s global engineering community — building secure, reliable, and intelligent technology systems that power commerce worldwide.
Key Responsibilities
- Write high-quality, maintainable, and secure code using modern programming languages.
- Contribute to all phases of software development, from design to deployment.
- Participate in technical problem-solving, debugging, and optimization.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver solutions for global clients.
- Support Mastercard’s mission of inclusive and sustainable digital innovation.
Your work may involve:
- Transaction processing systems
- Data analytics and fraud detection
- API development and integration
- Cloud-based applications and DevOps automation
“Software engineers at Mastercard are obsessed with security, reliability, and performance — driven to deliver simple, safe, and smart solutions.”
Qualifications and Requirements for Mastercard Launch Graduate Program 2026
To apply for the Mastercard Launch Graduate Program 2026 (Software Engineer Track), candidates must meet the following criteria:
Academic Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or accelerated Master’s degree program.
- Expected graduation between December 2025 and July 2026.
- Preferred fields: Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems, or related disciplines.
Technical Skills
- Experience in one or more programming languages such as Java, JavaScript, Python, or C#.
- Familiarity with databases (SQL, NoSQL) and source control tools (e.g., Git).
- Basic understanding of automated testing frameworks and continuous integration tools.
- Experience in debugging, code optimization, and performance analysis.
Soft Skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- Curiosity, adaptability, and eagerness to learn.
- Commitment to Mastercard’s values of integrity, innovation, and inclusion.
Corporate Security and Compliance
Every Mastercard employee and intern is expected to uphold the highest standards of security, ethics, and confidentiality. Participants must:
- Follow Mastercard’s information security policies.
- Protect company and customer data with integrity.
- Complete all mandatory security training.
- Report any security concerns promptly.
Why Join Mastercard?
1. Global Exposure
Work with teams from across 200+ countries and territories, solving problems that impact millions of lives every day.
2. Professional Development
Access world-class learning platforms, mentorship programs, and leadership training opportunities.
3. Diversity and Inclusion
Mastercard celebrates diversity — fostering a culture of belonging where every voice matters.
4. Innovation and Technology
Be part of a company that is redefining digital finance, blockchain solutions, AI innovation, and sustainable fintech.
5. Purpose and Impact
At Mastercard, doing well means doing good. The company supports global inclusion through initiatives like Girls4Tech, Start Path, and Financial Inclusion Labs.
How to Apply
Step 1: Visit Mastercard Careers
Go to the official Mastercard Careers Portal and search for:
Software Engineer – Launch Graduate Program 2026 (Lisbon, Portugal)
Step 2: Create an Account
Set up your candidate profile, upload your CV and cover letter.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Ensure your application highlights your technical expertise, innovation projects, and leadership potential.
Step 4: Assessment and Interview
Shortlisted applicants will undergo an online technical assessment, followed by interviews focusing on both technical competence and cultural fit.
Step 5: Join Mastercard
Successful candidates will join Mastercard’s 2026 Launch Cohort, starting their journey in one of the world’s most dynamic fintech environments.
Deadline: Applications close on November 21, 2025. Early submissions are highly encouraged.
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Meta Description
Apply for the Mastercard Launch Graduate Program 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal — a full-time software engineering role for graduates ready to build a career in fintech innovation. Learn, code, and create impact globally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the Mastercard Launch Graduate Program?
It’s a global early-career program designed to help students transition into full-time roles through training, mentorship, and real-world projects.
2. Who can apply?
Students graduating between December 2025 and July 2026 with a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field.
3. Where is the program based?
The 2026 cohort is based in Lisbon, Portugal, with opportunities for future mobility.
4. What technical skills are required?
Proficiency in programming languages like Java, Python, or C#, plus familiarity with databases and automated testing tools.
5. Is this a paid program?
Yes, it’s a full-time, salaried position with competitive benefits.
6. What does the selection process involve?
An online application, technical assessment, and interview round focused on skills and cultural alignment.
7. Does Mastercard sponsor work visas?
Eligible candidates requiring sponsorship may be considered based on local visa regulations.
8. When does the program start?
Successful candidates will begin in mid-2026 after graduation.
9. What is Launch Innovation Week?
A dedicated week within the program where participants collaborate on real-world innovation challenges.
10. What is the application deadline?
Applications close on November 21, 2025.
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