The Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarship 2026 in France is a fully funded opportunity designed for talented students from Sub-Saharan Africa who aspire to become the next generation of transformative leaders. Offered by the MasterCard Foundation in partnership with Sciences Po—one of Europe’s most prestigious universities, this scholarship covers full tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and a monthly stipend. Beyond financial assistance, scholars gain access to valuable professional development resources, including internships, career guidance, and global networking opportunities. The program nurtures leadership, innovation, and a commitment to community development, empowering African students to contribute meaningfully to their societies.
Eligible candidates for the Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarship 2026 must demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership potential, and financial need. Applicants can apply for undergraduate or graduate programs offered at Sciences Po. The application process typically includes submitting academic transcripts, a personal statement, and recommendation letters, with shortlisted candidates invited for an interview. This prestigious scholarship not only supports academic excellence but also promotes cross-cultural understanding and social impact, preparing scholars to address critical global and regional challenges through education, research, and leadership.
Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Stipend for living expenses
- Travel support to and from France
- Leadership workshops and networking
- Pre-departure support and tailored assistance upon arrival
- Official welcome program for integration in the first few weeks
- Reserved housing in Paris for scholars
- Personalized academic and social support throughout studies
- Career guidance, job fairs, and internship opportunities in Africa
- Mentoring program with the Sciences Po Alumni Africa Division
- Access to general student resources and support systems
Eligibility Criteria
- Hold citizenship in a Sub-Saharan African country (dual citizenship with European Economic Area countries makes candidates ineligible)
- Must have completed or be enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree at one of Sciences Po’s partner institutions
- Alternatively, must have participated in a foundation or mentoring program with a Mastercard Foundation partner.
- Demonstrate genuine financial need with supporting documents.
- Show commitment to driving change in Africa, especially in public policy, politics, or societal transitions.
- Be under 35 at the start of the Master’s program.
- Must not already hold or be completing a Master’s degree
- Must apply for a two-year Master’s program at one of Sciences Po’s Graduate Schools (not eligible for one-year, dual, or joint programs)
Required Documents for Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarship
- Completed application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of Sub-Saharan African citizenship
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Financial need documentation
- Personal statement on leadership and commitment to Africa
- Two recommendation letters
- Proof of Bachelor’s degree from a partner institution
- Valid passport or ID
- Language proficiency test (if required)
How to Apply?
- Visit the official Sciences Po website to review full scholarship details and confirm your eligibility.
- Create an account on the application platform using a valid email address.
- Complete the online application form, providing accurate personal and academic information.
- Upload all required documents, including academic transcripts, proof of financial need, and recommendation letters.
- Write a personal statement highlighting your leadership experience, community involvement, and commitment to Africa’s development.
- Review your entire application carefully to ensure all sections are complete and accurate.
- Submit your application before the deadline to be considered for selection.
- Wait for further instructions regarding interviews and admission decisions via email.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This section answers ten common questions about the Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarship 2026, covering eligibility, programmes, application deadlines, duration, document requirements, fee waivers, and the relationship between admission and scholarship awarding—all based on the official program rules.
What is the Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarship 2026?
The scholarship is part of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, open to admitted master’s students at Sciences Po. It funds two years of study for eligible African candidates and supports leadership development.
Who can apply for the Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarship 2026?
You must be a citizen of an African country (no second non-African citizenship), under 35 at the start of your master’s, not already hold a master’s, and demonstrate financial need and commitment to change in Africa.
What programmes are eligible under this scholarship?
Eligible applicants must enroll in a two-year master’s degree in one of Sciences Po’s Graduate Schools, excluding one-year, dual, or joint programmes. Only standard master’s programmes qualify.
How long does the Sciences Po MasterCard Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarship 2026 last?
The scholarship covers two full years of your master’s programme, providing financial support throughout the entire duration if you maintain eligibility.
What is the admission process for this Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarship 2026?
First secure admission to a master’s programme via the international graduate admissions. Eligible candidates are then evaluated for the scholarship and, if shortlisted, invited for a remote interview.
What documents are required in the application?
You must include all documents for international graduate admission: identification, transcripts, financial proof, references, proof of affiliation with reference institutions or bridging programmes. Incomplete applications are rejected.
Is there an application fee?
If you meet the scholarship eligibility, you are exempt from the Sciences Po application fee when applying to a master’s programme. But having the exemption doesn’t guarantee you’ll receive the scholarship.
Does being accepted to a master’s guarantee the Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarship 2026?
No. Acceptance to Sciences Po is a prerequisite, but admissions and scholarship evaluation are separate. You could gain admission without receiving the scholarship.
Can I defer theSciences Po MasterCard Scholarship 2026 if admitted?
No. The scholarship offer is valid only for the intake year you are selected. If you defer your admission by a year, you lose eligibility for the scholarship.
Is there a minimum academic grade required for the Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarship 2026?
Yes. To qualify for the Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarship 2026, applicants must have a minimum academic score of 70–80%. Those who do not meet this academic requirement will not be considered for admission or scholarship selection.
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