Applications are now open for the 2026 intake of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Arizona State University (ASU) for young African students. The scholarship is designed to help economically disadvantaged African students pursue graduate studies at a top American university.
The program is part of Mastercard Foundation’s global Scholars Program in partnership with ASU to nurture young Africans in technology, sustainable development, and entrepreneurship.
Through this program, students benefit from free education as well as mentorship, professional development, and leadership training. So they are well prepared to serve in their home communities and across the continent.
Now, let’s apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at ASU. Follow the step-by-step guide of Scholarships Edge to know about benefits, eligibility, required documents and how to apply. 👇
Also Check: University of Western Australia RTP Scholarship 2026 | Scholarship in Australia
Table of Contents
Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Details:
| Host Country: | USA |
| Host University: | Arizona State University (ASU) |
| Degree Level: | Master’s |
| Eligible nationality: | Young Africans |
| Program Duration: | 2 Years |
| Application Fee: | $0 |
| Deadline: | September 14, 2025 |
Eligible Graduate Programs:
- MS Global Technology and Development
- MS Information Technology
- MS Human Systems Engineering – Intelligent Systems
- MS User Experience
- MS Computer Science (MSc)
- MS Data Science Analytics & Engineering
- MS Robotics and Autonomous Systems
- MS Civil, Environmental & Sustainable Engineering
- MS Clean Energy Systems
- MS Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use
Benefits of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU:
- Monthly stipend for personal expenses
- Visa and travel expenses (round-trip to the US)
- On-campus housing & meals
- Health insurance
- Books and required course materials
- Leadership and entrepreneurship training
- 2-month Africa-based internship during studies
- Community service and networking opportunities
- Mentorship and career services
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Eligibility Criteria of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program:
- Be a citizen of an African country
- Hold a first degree (Bachelor’s) by the time of admission (2026 cohort requires graduation by July 2026)
- Be between 18–33 years old at the time of application
- Does not already hold a graduate degree
- Show academic excellence and strong potential for leadership & community impact
- Demonstrate financial need (unable to afford graduate studies otherwise)
- Apply for an eligible graduate program at ASU (focus areas include Technology, Data Science, AI, Robotics, Engineering, Energy Systems, Global Development, and User Experience)
- Meet English language requirements (TOEFL/IELTS or equivalent, unless exempt)
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Required Documents for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program:
- Completed online scholarship application form
- Copy of passport/ID
- CV/Resume
- Undergraduate Academic Transcripts
- Bachelor’s Degree certificate
- Two recommendation letters (academic or professional)
- Personal statement / Essays (topics: leadership, community service, future goals)
- Provide proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or equivalent if applicable)
- Any additional program-specific requirements (e.g., GRE for certain courses, research proposal for specialized degrees)
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How to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship:
- Step 1: Visit the ASU Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program website to check eligibility and deadlines.
- Step 2: Select an eligible master’s degree at ASU (mentioned above).
- Step 3: Collect all required documents listed above.
- Step 4: Apply through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars portal, not directly to ASU at first.
- Applications for the 2026/2027 academic year close on September 14, 2025 (23:59 GMT).
- Step 5: Shortlisted candidates are invited for an online/video interview.
- Step 6: If you are selected, ASU will guide you through official university admission and visa processes.
Note: If you have limited internet access, you can also apply by email. Download the PDF Version of the application, print out and fill out the form. Email this form along with required documents (CV/, Letter of Recommendation, and Transcripts) to mastercardfdnscholars@asu.edu.
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FAQs:
What are the requirements for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship?
Applicants need a bachelor’s degree, passport/ID, transcripts, CV, two recommendation letters, personal essays, and proof of English proficiency. Some programs may require GRE or a research proposal.
What does the scholarship cover?
It covers full tuition, housing, meals, monthly stipend, health insurance, visa and travel costs, books, leadership training, and internships.
How can I apply for the ASU Mastercard Scholarship?
Complete the online application on the Mastercard Foundation Scholars portal or submit the form by email, prepare the required documents, and submit before September 14, 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed.
Who is eligible for this scholarship?
Applicants must be African citizens, aged 18–33, hold a bachelor’s degree by July 2026, show academic excellence, leadership potential, and demonstrate financial need.
