MasterCard Scholarship 2026 at Arizona State University (ASU) is a prestigious graduate program offered in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation. Designed to empower the next generation of African leaders, this fully funded master’s scholarship aims to equip young professionals with advanced skills in technology, innovation, and sustainable development. Over the five-year period (2025–2030), the initiative will support 120 talented African students through a two-year immersive, on-campus program that blends academic excellence with practical leadership training.
For the 2026/2027 academic year, 30 full scholarships are available, covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses. Beyond financial aid, scholars will benefit from mentorship opportunities, leadership curriculum, community engagement activities, and internships that align with their field of study. Participants are encouraged to return to their home countries after graduation to contribute to social and economic growth, with a strong focus on empowering women, refugees, displaced persons, and students with disabilities.
Scholarship Summary
- Scholarship : USA
- Host : Arizona State University (ASU)
- Funded By: MasterCard Foundation
- Study level: Masters
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 14 September 2025
Benefits
The Scholarship will cover the following:
- Costs incurred for visa application processing
- Costs incurred for English language tests
- Costs incurred for program application
- Airfare to and from Phoenix, Arizona
- Full tuition, books and fees
- Medical expenses
- On campus housing
- Participation in Scholarship programming
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must qualify academically for admission to the degree of their choice that includes English proficiency.
- Applicants must be a citizen of an African country committed to ethical leadership and demonstrated engagement in their community.
- Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 33 on or before the application deadline.
- Applicants must demonstrate a track record of leadership and service in their community.
- Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and ambitions that exceed one’s financial resources.
- Applicants must have earned an undergraduate degree conferred by August 2026.
- Applicants must not have started or completed other graduate or masters degrees before August 2026.
- Applicants must be able to live in Phoenix, Arizona for the duration of the program
Graduate Programs Offered Through the MasterCard Scholarship 2026
- MS Global Technology and Development
- MS Information Technology
- MS Human Systems Engineering – Intelligent Systems
- MS User Experience
- MSC Computer Science
- 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
Required Documents For MasterCard Scholarship 2026
- Completed scholarship application form.
- Academic transcripts.
- Updated CV or resume.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Personal statement outlining career goals.
- Proof of English proficiency
- Copy of valid passport or ID.
How to Apply?
You can apply in two ways: online (recommended) or by using the PDF form if you have limited internet access.
Option 1: Apply Online (Recommended)
- Go to the official MasterCard Scholarship 2026 application form.
- Click NEXT at the bottom of the page to start your application.
- Fill out all required details accurately.
- Upload your supporting documents.
- Submit the form online.
Option 2: Apply with PDF Form (Limited Internet Access)
- Download the PDF version of the application form (do not request edit access).
- Complete all sections of the form.
- Prepare the required documents:
- CV/Resume
- Letter of Recommendation
- Academic Transcripts
- Email the filled form and attachments to [email protected].
Note: If you have stable internet access, always choose the online application for quicker processing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The MasterCard Scholarship 2026 at Arizona State University offers fully funded master’s programs for African students aged 18–33. It covers tuition, housing, travel, and mentorship, with eligibility requiring leadership, academic excellence, and community engagement. Applications close on 14 September 2025.
What is the MasterCard Scholarship 2026?
The MasterCard Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded master’s program at Arizona State University (ASU) in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. It empowers young African leaders with skills in technology, innovation, and sustainable development.
Who is eligible to apply for the MasterCard Scholarship 2026?
Applicants must be citizens of an African country, aged 18–33 on or before the application deadline. They must have completed an undergraduate degree by August 2026 and demonstrate leadership, ethical engagement, and academic excellence.
What programs are offered through the MasterCard Scholarship 2026?
The scholarship covers a range of full-time, on-campus graduate programs including MS Global Technology and Development, MS Information Technology, MS Data Science Analytics & Engineering, MS Computer Science, MS Robotics, and other engineering and technology fields.
What benefits are included in the MasterCard Scholarship 2026?
The scholarship provides full tuition, books, fees, on-campus housing, medical expenses, visa and program application costs, English language tests, and airfare to and from Phoenix. Scholars also participate in leadership programming and community activities.
How do I apply for the MasterCard Scholarship 2026?
You can apply online (recommended) or via PDF if internet access is limited. For online applications, complete the form, upload required documents, and submit through the official portal by the deadline.
What documents are required for the MasterCard Scholarship 2026?
Applicants must submit a completed scholarship application, academic transcripts, CV or resume, two recommendation letters, a personal statement outlining career goals, proof of English proficiency, and a valid passport or ID.
What is the application deadline for the MasterCard Scholarship 2026?
The official deadline for submitting applications is 14 September 2025. All online and PDF submissions must be completed by this date to be considered.
Are there opportunities for internships with the MasterCard Scholarship 2026?
Yes, the program includes a two-month internship between the first and second year, aligned with each scholar’s field of study. This provides practical experience and professional exposure to complement academic learning.
Are women, refugees, and students with disabilities encouraged to apply?
Absolutely. The MasterCard Scholarship 2026 encourages applications from women, refugees, displaced persons, and students with disabilities. ASU ensures accessibility and support for all scholars to enhance their academic and personal growth.
What happens after submitting my MasterCard Scholarship 2026 application?
After submission, applicants may be shortlisted and invited for an interview via video or phone call. Successful candidates will receive guidance on ASU admission and prepare for their on-campus program starting in August 2026.
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