This guide gives you clear steps on Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Scholarships 2026. You will learn what the program is, who is eligible, benefits, required documents, how the scholarships works, how selection happens, tips to succeed, and how to apply.
Table of Contents
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and the Mastercard Foundation
The largest scholarship and leadership initiative of its kind in Africa, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program prepares talented and diverse young people with a commitment to giving back with the skills and mindsets they need to pursue their aspirations and enrich their communities.
The Program is more than just a scholarship. It offers mentoring, leadership skills development, tutoring, internship opportunities, and career services in addition to covering tuition and basic living expenses.
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Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at EARTH University Benefits
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Earth University will receive holistic support which includes:
- Tuition and functional fees;
- Laptops, books, and other learning materials;
- Reasonable accommodation and meals;
- Medical insurance;
- Stipend;
- Transport to and from home;
- Access to leadership training;
- Access to entrepreneurial training;
- Psycho-social support, career counseling, and mentorship;
- Disability needs will be reasonably catered for.
Eligibility Criteria Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at EARTH University
Applicants must:
- Be a resident and a graduating high school student of a country within Sub-Saharan Africa;
- Demonstrate financial need correspondent to that of the lowest two quintiles of your country;
- Have very strong academic results within your school system;
- Have a record of leadership and extracurricular involvement;
- Maintain a strong desire to return to Africa to assist and work towards enhanced regional socioeconomic development;
- Be graduating from a recognized secondary school, or have completed the necessary academic requirements; and
- Fulfill the necessary English requirements (dependent on country);
Application Documents for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- Fill out the Online Application Form
- Three recommendations letters: Upload to the platform 3 recommendation letters from non-family members, using the provided PDF format. You can download the format entering the platform.
- Transcripts from the last 3 years of high school: Upload your high school transcripts from your last three completed years of high school (just high school, no transcripts from university or college).
- High school diploma: Upload your high school diploma or certification of completion of studies
- Supporting documents: Upload any other supporting documents: certificates of foreign language, special achievements, awards, completion of courses or training, etc.
Selection Process
Universities handle selection for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program based on merit and course fit.
Selection stages include.
- Review of academic background
- Assessment of motivation and subject interest
- Confirmation of eligibility rules for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- Final approval by the host university
Tips For Successful Application
Strong preparation improves success with Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Follow these tips.
- Choose courses aligned with academic background
- Write a clear personal statement with defined goals
- Meet English language standards early
- Apply early due to varied deadlines
- Study each university page linked to Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Application Dates and Deadlines for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
October 15th – January 31st: Receipt of Admission Forms
February 1st – March 15th: Review of selected profiles and receipt of socioeconomic forms
April: Exams and interviews
June: Admissions and migration process
Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
How to Apply
Interested and qualified applying for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Steps to follow
1. Create your account
2. Complete and submit your application
3. Take the admissions tests
4. Participate in the admissions interview
5. Family socio-economic study
6. Admissions and migration process
For more details, visit EARTH University Mastercard Foundation Scholarship webpage
Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
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