Are you an ambitious young African looking to pursue a graduate degree with full financial support? The Arizona State University (ASU) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 for Young Africans offers an excellent opportunity for emerging leaders across Africa to access world-class education, develop critical leadership skills, and drive positive change within their communities.
This program, offered in collaboration between Arizona State University (ASU) and the Mastercard Foundation, seeks to empower young Africans to become transformative leaders who will shape the continent’s future. The initiative provides full scholarships for eligible candidates, ensuring that financial barriers do not stand in the way of academic excellence and community impact.
Arizona State University (ASU) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026
The Arizona State University (ASU) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 marks the third phase of a long-standing partnership between ASU and the Mastercard Foundation. Between 2024 and 2030, this phase aims to support 600 young Africans through diverse educational pathways, including graduate programs, online and in-person learning, English language training, and specialized professional certificates.
The program is designed to equip participants with advanced knowledge in leadership, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship, key areas that are essential for sustainable growth and development in Africa.
Arizona State University (ASU) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | Rwanda (with online study via ASU) |
| Study Destination | Arizona State University (ASU), USA |
| Program Type | Graduate (Master’s) Program |
| Funded By | Mastercard Foundation, in partnership with ASU |
| Eligible Applicants | Young Africans (Ages 18 – 33) |
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded (Tuition, Accommodation, Living Allowance, Mentorship, Internship) |
| Study Mode | Online with in-person support in Rwanda |
| Application Deadline | November 2, 2025, at 23:59 GMT |
| Number of Awards | 40 graduate scholarships |
| Academic Session | 2026 – 2028 |
What Is the ASU Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program All About?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Arizona State University aims to develop a generation of ethical, entrepreneurial, and transformative leaders in Africa. This initiative is part of the Foundation’s broader vision to advance education and promote social and economic progress on the continent.
The program offers 40 fully funded graduate scholarships for the 2026 academic session. Selected scholars will study online at Arizona State University (ASU) while receiving in-person mentorship, leadership development, and academic support through Kepler College in Rwanda.
This hybrid approach allows scholars to benefit from ASU’s high-quality education while engaging in practical, community-based experiences in Africa. The program focuses on fields that are crucial for the continent’s advancement, such as technology, sustainable engineering, and business analytics.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the Arizona State University (ASU) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of an African country.
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be between 18 and 33 years old at the time of application.
- Academic Qualification: Must hold an undergraduate degree by July 2026.
- Graduate Status: Applicants must not have started or completed any graduate (Master’s) degree.
- Residency Requirement: Must reside in Rwanda for the duration of the program.
- Leadership and Service: Demonstrated record of leadership, volunteerism, or community service.
- Academic Merit: Proven academic excellence and commitment to learning.
- Ethical Commitment: Must be committed to ethical leadership, integrity, and social responsibility.
- ASU Admission Requirements: Must meet all ASU admission standards for the intended graduate program.
Available Graduate Programs
The 2026 ASU Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides scholarships for a select number of full-time, on-campus graduate degrees, including:
- MS Global Technology and Development
- MSE Sustainable Engineering
- MS Information Technology
- MS Business Analytics
- MEd Learning Design and Technologies
Each program focuses on equipping scholars with both theoretical and practical skills essential for addressing Africa’s most pressing challenges.
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the ASU Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 will receive a fully funded package that covers academic, living, and professional expenses. Benefits include:
- Full tuition fee coverage for the entire graduate program.
- Accommodation and living expenses throughout the duration of the program.
- Individual mentorship from experienced professionals and academics.
- Leadership development training to strengthen problem-solving and innovation skills.
- Participation in enrichment activities, including workshops, seminars, and networking events.
- A two-month internship between the first and second academic years, allowing scholars to gain hands-on experience in their field of study.
- Access to a global network of Mastercard Foundation alumni and partners, promoting lifelong professional and personal growth.
Program Goals and Objectives
The primary mission of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU is to promote inclusive education and leadership among young Africans. Its objectives include:
- Empowering African youth with globally relevant knowledge and local problem-solving capabilities.
- Encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship that align with Africa’s development needs.
- Fostering ethical and accountable leadership that drives equitable growth.
- Building sustainable partnerships between African institutions and international universities.
- Bridging the digital divide by providing access to high-quality online education supported by in-person mentorship.
Through this program, ASU and the Mastercard Foundation continue to invest in Africa’s most valuable resource, its people.
How to Apply for the ASU Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026
Applicants must carefully follow the steps below to complete their applications successfully:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the official ASU Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program webpage to access detailed application information, forms, and instructions.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Applicants should gather and prepare all necessary documents, which may include:
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Proof of nationality (passport or national ID).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Personal statement or motivation letter.
- Proof of English language proficiency (if required).
- Letters of recommendation (academic or professional).
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Fill out the online application form carefully. Ensure that all sections are accurately completed and that supporting documents are uploaded in the specified formats.
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
All applications must be submitted no later than November 2, 2025, at 23:59 GMT. Late applications will not be considered.
Why Choose Arizona State University (ASU)?
Arizona State University is one of the leading public research universities in the United States. It is globally recognized for its innovation, inclusivity, and commitment to solving global challenges through education.
- Global Impact: ASU ranks among the top universities for innovation and sustainable development.
- Flexible Learning: Offers a hybrid model combining online and in-person learning.
- Diverse Community: Hosts a multicultural environment that promotes global collaboration.
- Research Excellence: Provides cutting-edge research facilities and resources for academic growth.
- Commitment to Africa: Through its partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, ASU remains dedicated to expanding opportunities for African youth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who funds the ASU Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?
The program is jointly funded by the Mastercard Foundation and Arizona State University (ASU) to promote inclusive education and leadership development among African youth.
Is the scholarship fully funded?
Yes, the program covers tuition, accommodation, living expenses, mentorship, and internship opportunities for selected scholars.
Can I apply if I am not residing in Rwanda?
No. For this particular phase, applicants must reside in Rwanda during the program’s duration to receive in-person support.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is November 2, 2025, at 23:59 GMT.
How many scholarships are available?
A total of 40 fully funded graduate scholarships are available for the 2026 academic session.
For more information and to apply, visit the official webpage of the Arizona State University (ASU) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
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