Each year, the MasterCard Foundation Scholars program offers gifted students from disadvantaged backgrounds across Africa the chance to pursue their academic ambitions. Recognizing that many talented individuals lack the means to realize their potential, the foundation aims to harness education as a catalyst for socio-economic progress.
By empowering these students, the program aims to cultivate a new generation of African leaders capable of driving positive change within their communities and beyond.
Through comprehensive financial, social, and academic support, including coverage for tuition, accommodation, books, and additional resources, the initiative seeks to break down barriers to higher education. Eligible fields of study and program specifics may vary depending on the institution.
Complete Roster Of Scholarships Provided By The Mastercard Foundation
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship program collaborates with various universities and institutions. It offers opportunities for secondary education, undergraduate studies, and master’s degree programs.
Secondary Education:
- Camfed International, also known as the Campaign For Female Education (CAMFED), is an international non-profit dedicated to addressing poverty and the significant gap in educational opportunities for girls in Africa.
- Equity Group Foundation aims to promote the socioeconomic advancement of African youth.
Undergraduate Education Institutions
- African Leadership Academy – Dedicated to molding today’s youth into impactful leaders poised to make a difference across the African continent.
- The American University of Beirut – Through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, collaborates with its Faculty of Health Sciences to empower young individuals as catalysts for change within their communities and nations.
- Ashesi University College – Through the Mastercard Foundation program, aims to elevate disadvantaged African youth into leaders with the requisite mindset for success.
- Kwame Nkrumah University Of Science And Technology (KNUST) – Focused on advancing technology across Africa.
- Science Po – Based in Paris, France, renowned for its excellence in scientific and humanities research.
- The University of Abomey-Calavi – Benin’s oldest and largest public university, renowned for producing distinguished scholars of Beninese descent.
- The University of Cape Town – Utilizes the Mastercard Scholarship program to cultivate leaders driving innovation across various domains.
- University of Edinburgh – Committed to the generation, dissemination, and effective governance of knowledge.
- University of Gondar
- University of Pretoria
- Wellesley College
Graduate Programs
- African Institute For Mathematical Sciences (AIMS)
- The American University of Beirut.
- Arizona State University.
- The Carnegie Mellon University of Africa.
- McGill University.
- Sciences Po.
- The University of British Columbia.
- The University of Cape Town.
- The University of Edinburgh.
- The University of Gondar.
- The University of Pretoria.
Scholarship Scope
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship offers comprehensive support for African students. It includes:
- Lodging and food in a UP residence or UP-accredited housing.
- Complete coverage of tuition fees.
- A monthly allowance.
- Medical insurance throughout the study period.
- Access to textbooks and printed materials.
- Assistance with VISA expenses.
- Opportunities for leadership development.
- Reasonable travel expenses (including airfare) to and from your home.
- Academic guidance and counseling services.
Requirements For Qualification:
For those seeking admission to undergraduate programs, they must be 29 years old or younger at the time of application, while for graduate programs, the age limit is 35 years or younger. However, each institution may have its own specific eligibility criteria, so it’s advisable to review the requirements of the institution you’re interested in.
While there’s no restriction on the number of institutions you can apply to, the application process itself can be demanding.
It’s crucial to take required tests, such as the SAT, TOEFL, or IELTS, several months before beginning the application process, as per the institution’s guidelines.
Additionally, some institutions may require a reference letter, which can be obtained from a community leader, teacher, or religious leader you know.
Becoming A Scholar Of The Mastercard Foundation
This program celebrates excellence among its scholars, emphasizing strong academics, leadership, and a commitment to community betterment. To qualify, you need to excel academically, exhibit strong leadership skills, and show a passion for positively influencing your community.
The pathway to becoming a scholar is managed by the Foundation’s partner institutions and non-governmental organizations. For inquiries and application specifics, please communicate directly with your chosen institution.
Advantages/Importance of Scholarships
- The scholarship program offers an opportunity for intellectually gifted students facing financial constraints to pursue their academic aspirations.
- Valuable skill sets in high-demand fields such as IT and Communications, Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and Critical Thinking are obtainable through this program.
- Beneficiaries of the program are empowered to contribute to society through charitable endeavors, community service, and volunteer work.
- It also facilitates interaction, networking, and collaboration among both graduate and undergraduate scholars through various forums, seminars, and workshops, aiding them in achieving their individual goals.
- Moreover, participants benefit from engaging with mentors, life coaches, and leadership experts.
- The program facilitates a seamless transition for scholars from secondary to tertiary education.
How To Submit An Application For The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship
- To utilize the online application system, you’ll require consistent Internet connectivity and an active email address. Upon submission of your online application, a student number (EMPLID) will be dispatched to your email address to confirm receipt.
- Alternatively, you can opt to send a printed copy of your application to the University of Pretoria at the address below:
- Your application will then undergo assessment by faculty members, and you will receive notification of the decision.
- Postgraduate applicants need to ensure that their certificates are authenticated by the South African Qualifications Authority.
Key Takeaway:
Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship to further your education in South Africa. This scholarship opportunity is currently accepting applications for the 2024-2025 academic year. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the scholarship program, including its benefits and the application process.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2024-2025 offers fully funded master’s scholarships for international students. It aims to support academically outstanding individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in Africa.
These students are expected to contribute to the continent’s development through their knowledge, skills, attitudes, and leadership qualities.
Participation in community service and internships is a crucial aspect of the program. Successful applicants will receive a full scholarship to pursue a postgraduate degree at UP, provided they have been conditionally accepted into their chosen program.
Upon graduation, scholars are required to return to their home countries and contribute to their communities. It’s important to note that applicants must not already hold a master’s degree or qualification.
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