Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship 2026 is now open at the American University of Beirut (AUB), offering a fully funded opportunity for talented scholars who want to pursue advanced doctoral studies in a world-class academic environment. This prestigious fellowship supports outstanding students who are committed to leadership, research excellence, and creating positive change in their communities and beyond.
Through the AUB Mastercard Foundation Fellowship, selected PhD candidates receive comprehensive financial support, including full tuition coverage, accommodation, a laptop, travel costs, and a monthly living stipend. In this guide, you’ll find clear details on eligibility requirements, key benefits, fellowship duration, and a step-by-step application process to help you apply with confidence.
Benefits of Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship 2026
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Monthly living stipend
- Laptop and learning materials
- Travel and visa costs
- Health and medical insurance
- Workshops, fieldwork, and leadership development programs
Eligibility Criteria for the Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship 2026
- Be citizens of countries on the African continent, or refugees living in Africa
- Be 35 years old or younger
- Have a strong academic record in their previous degree
- Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to community service
- Show financial need that exceeds available resources
- Be committed to attending all workshops and training sessions under the Scholars Program
- Demonstrate Readiness for University Studies in English (RUSE) through one of the following tests:
- AUB-EN test
- TOEFL iBT
- IELTS (Academic)
- GRE (Verbal)
- GMAT (Verbal)
- DUOLINGO English Test (DET)
How to apply for the Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship 2026 ?
- Visit the official Mastercard Foundation at AUB page and read the fellowship overview carefully to understand the goals, eligibility rules, and supported study levels.
- Check that you meet all academic, citizenship, and leadership requirements before starting the application process.
- Choose an eligible PhD program at the American University of Beirut that matches your academic background and career goals.
- Apply for admission to your selected PhD program through AUB’s regular graduate admissions system and submit all required academic documents.
- Wait for the Mastercard Foundation Fellowship application call to open, then complete the dedicated fellowship application form online.
- Prepare and upload all required documents, including academic records, personal statements, and any leadership or community engagement evidence.
- Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interviews or additional assessments as part of the selection process.
- Final fellowship decisions are shared after academic and fellowship reviews are completed, and selected candidates receive official confirmation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded doctoral scholarship for eligible African citizens and refugees under age 35 with strong academics and leadership potential, including English proficiency and engagement in workshops and community service activities.
What is the Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship 2026?
The Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded scholarship opportunity offered through a partnership that prepares emerging scholars to drive positive change while pursuing a doctoral degree. It focuses on academic growth and leadership development.
Who is eligible for the Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship 2026?
Eligible applicants for the Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship 2026 are citizens of African countries or refugees living on the African continent who demonstrate strong academic potential, leadership ability, and commitment to their communities and regions through engagement and service.
What are the age requirements?
To qualify for the Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet an age criterion of 35 years or younger, demonstrate outstanding academic performance from previous education, and show readiness for advanced university studies in English.
What academic criteria must applicants meet?
Applicants must present a strong academic record from their previous degree program, show potential beyond financial need, and be prepared to engage fully in the doctoral curriculum and additional learning experiences offered by the fellowship.
What language proficiency is needed for the fellowship?
Applicants must demonstrate readiness for university studies in English, which can be shown through accepted English tests such as the institution’s own English readiness assessment, TOEFL, IELTS, GRE Verbal, GMAT Verbal, or Duolingo English Test scores.
What is the application process?
To apply for the Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship 2026, candidates must complete the standard graduate application, indicate interest in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program under financial opportunities, and submit required academic and supporting documents.
Are community engagement and leadership part of the Fellowship?
Yes, the Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship 2026 emphasizes community engagement and leadership development alongside academic achievement, requiring fellows to participate in workshops, fieldwork, and activities focused on impact and social responsibility.
Does the fellowship include workshops and fieldwork?
The fellowship experience includes a series of structured workshops, fieldwork, and courses beyond standard doctoral requirements to help fellows build skills in leadership, community service, and cultural exchange as part of their professional development.
Can refugees apply for the PhD Fellowship?
Refugees living on the African continent are eligible to apply for the Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship 2026, provided they meet all other academic and program requirements, including age and English proficiency criteria.
What is the goal of the Mastercard Foundation PhD Fellowship 2026?
The core aim of this doctorate scholarship is to cultivate young leaders who are committed to making an impact in their communities, countries, and regions by combining rigorous academic study with civic engagement and leadership training.
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