Learn about the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027 at the University of Cambridge, including eligibility, benefits, application process, timelines, and opportunities for young African leaders pursuing fully funded master’s degrees.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge is one of the world’s most prestigious and transformative opportunities for young African leaders. Applications for the 2026/2027 academic year are now open, inviting talented, committed, and impact-driven individuals to pursue a fully funded master’s degree at one of the world’s leading universities.
Beyond funding, the programme places a strong emphasis on leadership development, entrepreneurship, community impact, and professional growth. By 2030, more than 500 African scholars will have completed this programme, using their expertise to drive sustainable change across the continent.
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What Is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?
The programme is designed to support academically talented young Africans who demonstrate leadership potential and a strong commitment to giving back to their communities. It provides full financial support for eligible master’s programmes at the University of Cambridge, alongside mentorship, leadership development, and career support.
It is not simply a scholarship but a comprehensive development journey that equips scholars to become changemakers in areas such as:
- Climate action
- Public health
- Education
- Innovation and entrepreneurship
- Technology
- Sustainable development
- Governance and policy
- Food systems and agriculture
The programme actively promotes equality, diversity and inclusion, especially encouraging applications from:
- Women
- Refugees
- Internally displaced persons
- People with disabilities
What the Scholarship Covers
This is a fully funded opportunity that includes:
- Full tuition fees at the University of Cambridge
- Living allowance and accommodation
- Airfare to and from the UK
- Visa and health surcharge costs
- Leadership training and personal development
- Academic and career mentorship
- Access to Cambridge networks, libraries, and alumni communities
Scholars also receive tailored wellbeing and academic support to ensure they thrive both personally and academically.
Available Master’s Programmes
Scholars can apply to a wide range of master’s programmes across the University of Cambridge’s faculties, depending on their academic background and future goals.
Eligible fields typically include:
- Public Health
- Engineering
- Education
- Development Studies
- Environmental Sciences
- Agriculture and Food Security
- Social Innovation
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Public Policy
- Business-related programmes
- Humanities and Social Sciences
Applicants must check the specific programme list for each intake year as availability may vary.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the programme, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an African country
- Demonstrate leadership potential and a track record of community engagement
- Commit to contributing to development in Africa after graduation
- Apply to an eligible master’s programme at the University of Cambridge
- Meet the university’s academic and English language requirements
- Demonstrate financial need
- Be applying for a one-year, full-time master’s degree
The programme welcomes candidates from all academic backgrounds.
How to Apply
The application process has two key stages:
1. Apply for Admission to the University of Cambridge
Applicants must submit a separate graduate application to the University through the official Cambridge application portal. Requirements may include:
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Reference letters
- Personal statement
- Research proposal (if required by the programme)
2. Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
After submitting the university application, applicants must complete the Mastercard Foundation scholarship form. This form typically asks for:
- Motivation for applying
- Leadership experience
- Community involvement
- Career goals
- Financial need justification
Timeline
- Applications open: September
- Applications close: Dependent on course deadlines (typically October–December)
- Shortlisting and interviews: Early 2026
- Final selection: Mid–2026
- Programme starts: October 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit early to avoid missing course-specific deadlines.
Support for Scholars
The programme provides a strong support system, including:
- A dedicated Scholar Support Team
- Leadership coaching
- Mental health and wellbeing services
- Academic skills workshops
- Peer networking and cross-cohort collaboration
- Opportunities to participate in conferences, innovation hubs, and volunteering projects
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Impact Stories
The programme features many inspiring young Africans who have used their Cambridge experience to launch impactful initiatives across the continent. These include:
- Strengthening food systems in South Sudan
- Innovating in climate-resilient building design
- Producing films that address social justice issues
- Empowering women and youth through education
- Advancing agricultural technology for smallholder farmers
These stories demonstrate the programme’s mission: to empower leaders who drive positive change across Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition, living costs, travel, visa fees, and other essential expenses.
2. Who is eligible to apply?
Young African citizens with leadership potential, academic excellence, and a commitment to contributing to Africa’s development.
3. Can I apply for a PhD?
No. The programme supports only one-year master’s degrees.
4. Do I need work experience?
Not always required, but leadership involvement and community service strongly strengthen your application.
5. Can refugees or displaced persons apply?
Yes. The programme strongly encourages applications from displaced and marginalized individuals.
6. Can I apply for more than one course?
You must follow Cambridge’s rules for applying to multiple courses, but ensure every programme you choose is eligible.
7. When do applications close?
Deadlines depend on the specific master’s programme. Early application is recommended.
8. Can I apply if I previously studied abroad?
Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria and demonstrate financial need.
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