Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley 2026: Fully Funded for Africans

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley is a fully funded scholarship for students from Sub-Saharan Africa who want to earn a master’s degree in the United States. The program covers tuition, living expenses, travel, and health insurance, and also provides mentorship and leadership development opportunities.

The scholarship is designed for students who possess strong academic records, leadership skills, and a commitment to giving back to their communities in Africa after graduation. It’s perfect for students who are planning to attend a top university, like UC Berkeley, and want to develop skills to make a positive difference in their home countries.

Let’s apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley. Follow the step-by-step guide of Scholarships Edge to learn about benefits, eligibility, required documents and how to apply. 👇

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Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Details

Benefits of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley

• Full Tuition Coverage: Complete payment of tuition and academic fees.
• Living Expenses: Stipends for accommodation, meals, and other living costs.
• Travel Support: Up to $1,500 USD for round-trip airfare and related travel expenses.
• Academic Materials: Assistance with books, supplies, and other academic resources.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage during the study period.
• Mentorship & Leadership Training: Access to academic and professional mentors, along with workshops focused on leadership development.
• Career Services: Guidance on internships, job placements, and career planning.
• Global Network: Membership in a community of Mastercard Foundation Scholars, fostering collaboration and lifelong connections.

Also Check: Central European University Scholarship 2026

Eligibility Criteria for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must:

• Citizenship: Be a citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country, including refugees or displaced individuals within the continent.
• Academic Admission: Gain admission to an eligible master’s degree program at UC Berkeley.
• Leadership Potential: Demonstrate a commitment to ethical leadership and positive societal impact.
• Financial Need: Show evidence of financial constraints hindering access to higher education.
• Post-Graduation Intent: Plan to return to Africa after completing the degree to contribute to community development.

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Required Documents for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Applicants should prepare the following:

• Completed Application Form: Available through the UC Berkeley graduate application portal.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlighting academic achievements, work experience, and extracurricular activities.
• Statement of Purpose: Detailing academic interests, career goals, and reasons for choosing UC Berkeley.
• Letters of Recommendation: At least two academic or professional references.
• Academic Transcripts: Official records from previous institutions attended.
• Proof of Financial Need: Documents demonstrating financial constraints.
• English Language Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS scores, if applicable.
• Additional Documents: Any other materials specified by the chosen graduate program.

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How to Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley

1. Apply to UC Berkeley: Submit an application to an eligible master’s degree program through the UC Berkeley Graduate Division.
2. Admission Round: Ensure to apply in the first round of admissions, as only these applicants are considered for the scholarship.
3. Supplemental Application: If admitted, you will be invited to complete a supplemental application for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
4. Interview Process: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview as part of the selection process.
5. Final Selection: Successful applicants will be notified and provided with further instructions.

Also Check: Clarendon Fund Scholarship 2026 at Oxford University

Timeline of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley

• Sept–Early Jan: Apply to an eligible UC Berkeley master’s program (first-round applications only).
• Nov 15: Deadline for submitting demographic information and recommendations for fee waiver eligibility.
• Feb: Supplemental Scholars Program application invitation for nominated candidates.
• March: Online interviews for shortlisted candidates.
• Late March/Early April: Final scholarship decisions announced.

Also Check: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at University of Cambridge 2026