The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge is now accepting applications for the 2027/2028 academic year, offering talented young Africans an opportunity to pursue a fully supported master’s degree while developing their leadership potential and contributing to sustainable development across Africa. The programme is designed for passionate and ambitious African students who demonstrate academic potential, leadership qualities and a commitment to creating positive change. Successful scholars will receive comprehensive financial support intended to enable them to thrive during their studies at Cambridge. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Overview The programme enables eligible young Africans to pursue a full-time, one-year postgraduate master’s degree at the University of Cambridge. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program aims to cover the major costs associated with studying at Cambridge, including full tuition fees and a monthly maintenance allowance. The programme also provides an opportunity for scholars to develop their leadership capabilities and connect their academic experience with efforts to build sustainable futures across Africa. The programme’s central themes are climate resilience and sustainability, reflecting the need for diverse expertise to address the environmental, economic and social challenges facing the continent. Eligible Master’s Courses Prospective scholars can apply for any eligible full-time one-year postgraduate course at the University of Cambridge, provided that they meet the academic and other requirements of their chosen programme. The following courses are specifically excluded from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: Master of Business Administration (MBA) Master of Corporate Law (MCL) Master of Finance (MFIN) Master of Accountancy (MAcc) Applicants should carefully review the University of Cambridge postgraduate course directory before selecting a programme and should confirm that their chosen course is eligible for scholarship consideration. Eligibility Requirements To qualify for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, applicants must be citizens of an African country. Applicants are generally expected to be resident in an African country. However, an applicant may be temporarily outside Africa for study or employment if they can demonstrate that the absence is temporary. An exception applies to applicants who identify as internally displaced persons or have refugee status. Applicants must also satisfy the academic requirements of the Cambridge postgraduate course for which they are applying. Meeting the scholarship’s general eligibility criteria does not replace the admission requirements of the selected master’s programme. The programme actively encourages applications from women, refugees, internally displaced people and people with disabilities, supporting diversity and inclusion among the scholar community. What the Scholarship Covers The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is designed to provide comprehensive financial support to successful scholars. The programme aims to cover full tuition costs and provide a monthly maintenance allowance, helping scholars meet the costs associated with studying and living in Cambridge. Beyond financial assistance, the programme focuses on developing scholars’ leadership potential and supporting their ability to contribute to positive and sustainable change in Africa. How to Apply The application process begins with identifying an appropriate master’s programme through the University of Cambridge Postgraduate Study Course Directory. Applicants should first review the available courses, entry requirements and academic criteria before beginning their application. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application is integrated into the University of Cambridge course application. Applicants do not submit a completely separate scholarship application. As part of the course application, prospective scholars will be asked to submit a scholarship statement. The scholarship statement should address the applicant’s career and education history, leadership potential, how the scholarship will support their goals, and how they intend to contribute to sustainable futures in Africa. Applicants should therefore demonstrate not only academic ability but also leadership potential, a clear sense of purpose and a commitment to creating meaningful impact. Application Support and Webinars The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is hosting information webinars during the application period to help prospective applicants understand the programme and application process. Upcoming sessions include a webinar on 22 September 2026 at 11:00 UK time and another on 6 October 2026 at 11:00 UK time, with additional sessions expected to be announced. Prospective applicants are encouraged to use these sessions and the official application guidance to understand the scholarship requirements and prepare strong applications. Application Deadline The 2027/2028 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application is now open. Applicants should note that the scholarship application is incorporated into the relevant Cambridge master’s course application, meaning deadlines may vary depending on the selected course. Applicants should therefore check the specific application deadline for their chosen postgraduate programme and submit all required materials before that deadline. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY Why Applicants Should Consider the Programme The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides more than financial assistance. It offers talented young Africans an opportunity to access a world-leading university while strengthening their leadership capacity and preparing to contribute to sustainable development. The programme is particularly relevant to applicants interested in climate resilience, sustainability, leadership and Africa’s long-term development, while its commitment to supporting women, refugees, internally displaced people and people with disabilities creates opportunities for applicants from diverse backgrounds. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) does not take ownership or credit for the opportunities shared on this platform. All opportunities are sourced from official announcements and external sources for informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying. Opportunities may be updated or changed by the providing organisations.