Earn While You Study in 2026: Call for Applications Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge

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About the Scholarship

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge enables talented young Africans to pursue a master’s degree and grow their leadership potential at one of the world’s leading universities.

Much more than a fully-funded scholarship, it’s a life-changing experience that helps young people fulfil their academic potential and lays the foundations for a rewarding, meaningful career.

By 2030, more than 500 students will be enrolled in the programme, undertaking a wide range of master’s courses and all committed to driving sustainable change in Africa and beyond.

The program actively supports equality, diversity, and inclusion in higher education. Women, refugees, internally displaced persons, and people with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge, you must:

Have a bachelor’s degree.
Meet the academic entry requirements of your chosen course. Some courses require the equivalent of a UK first-class honours degree and others an upper second-class degree. Use the postgraduate study course directory to check your course’s entry requirements.
Be from, and live in, an African country. You can apply if you’re temporarily living outside Africa for study or work.
Apply for an eligible course. This can be any full-time master’s, excluding:
- Master of Accountancy (MACC)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Corporate Law (MCL)
- Master of Finance (MFIN)
Demonstrate a commitment to giving back to your community, home country, or Africa more broadly, and to the themes of sustainability and climate resilience.

Application Process

Before Getting Started

Check your course’s entry requirements, funding deadline, and required supporting documents: Course Directory
Confirm your degree meets Cambridge’s academic entry requirements: International Qualifications Checker
Review your eligibility for an application fee waiver: Application Fee Waiver Guide

Step 1: Start Your Course Application

Open your chosen course’s profile in the directory and click “Apply Now”.
Create an account to save and return to your application later.

Step 2: Submit Application Fee Waiver (if required)

Request a fee waiver if you’re an African student and not from a country already listed as fee-waiver eligible.
Deadline for submission: 15 November.

Step 3: Apply for Funding

Opt in for funding during your course application.
Select the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program from the list.
Submit a scholarship statement focusing on:
- Your career/education history
- Leadership potential
- How the scholarship will help you achieve your goals
- How you will contribute to sustainable futures in Africa

Step 4: Complete and Submit Your Application

Submit by your course’s funding deadline (typically December or January).
Choose a College for accommodation, dining, and small group learning.

Step 5: Department Selection

Departments review and select successful applicants between December and February.
Some courses may require an interview.

Step 6: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Review

The Program team reviews departmental offers and scholarship statements.
Offer letters issued March–April.

Step 7: Post-Offer Requirements

Submit outstanding documents (e.g., English proficiency) by 31 July.
Most courses require IELTS 7.0 or 7.5 overall. Costs for the test can be covered if needed.

Why Apply?

Full financial support for your degree.
Leadership development and mentorship opportunities.
Be part of a growing network of young Africans driving sustainability and climate resilience.
A chance to study at one of the world’s most prestigious universities.

Find out more about the call here :

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