The Sciences Po Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 provides comprehensive financial support to eligible African students seeking a two-year master’s degree at Sciences Po in France. The programme targets academically strong candidates who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to advancing social and economic development in Africa, particularly those facing significant barriers to higher education.

Selected scholars receive support for tuition and living expenses, plus accommodation assistance, mentoring, and career development resources. The official programme page lists application deadlines of 23 November and 14 December 2026, depending on the intended admission decision date.
Sciences Po Mastercard Foundation Overview
The Sciences Po Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 supports talented African students seeking advanced education and the opportunity to develop solutions to challenges affecting their communities. The initiative combines financial assistance with academic and professional development at Sciences Po, a leading institution known for its social sciences programmes.
Going further, Eligible scholars pursuing selected master’s degrees can receive support for tuition, living expenses, and other study-related needs, alongside mentorship and leadership development opportunities. The program places particular emphasis on students with strong academic records, demonstrated leadership abilities, and a clear vision for contributing to Africa’s future. Applicants should consult the official scholarship webpage for current eligibility conditions, available programmes, and application procedures.
Host institution: Sciences Po
Host country: France
Study level: Two-year master’s degree
Target audience: Eligible African students
Funding partner: Mastercard Foundation
Scholarship coverage: Tuition, living expenses, and additional support
Application deadlines: 23 November or 14 December 2026, depending on the application timeline
Sciences Po Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Benefits
Applicatnts receive;
-
Full tuition support for selected scholars.
-
Financial support for living expenses.
-
Housing arrangements in Paris.
-
Pre-departure and arrival support.
-
Personalised academic guidance.
-
Mentoring and career development.
-
Entrepreneurship and professional networking opportunities.
Sciences Po Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Eligibility
Applicants must;
-
Hold citizenship of an African country.
-
Be under 35 years old on 1 September of the application year.
-
Hold or be completing a bachelor’s degree through an eligible institution or qualifying pathway.
-
Not already hold or currently be pursuing a master’s degree.
-
Be applying to an eligible two-year master’s programme at Sciences Po.
-
Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to positive change in Africa.
-
Meet the university’s academic and programme requirements.
How to Apply for the Sciences Po Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Here are the application steps to follow;
-
Visit the official Sciences Po Mastercard Foundation scholarship page.
-
Review the eligibility requirements and eligible master’s programmes.
-
Check whether your university or educational pathway qualifies.
-
Begin the scholarship eligibility process.
-
Apply separately through the relevant Sciences Po international graduate admissions process as instructed.
-
Prepare academic transcripts, identification, references, and other required documents.
-
Submit the completed applications before the applicable deadline.
Sciences Po Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Deadline
These are scholarship application timelines, and applicants must also comply with the associated admission instructions.
-
23 November 2026: For applicants seeking an admission decision by 11 February 2027.
-
14 December 2026: For applicants seeking an admission decision by 1 April 2027.
Official Website
Sciences Po Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
FAQs
Can Nigerian students apply?
Yes, Nigerian citizens may be eligible if they meet the academic, citizenship, and scholarship criteria.
Does the scholarship cover living expenses?
Yes, the programme states that it covers tuition and living expenses for selected scholars.
Are one-year master’s programmes eligible?
No, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po is for eligible two-year master’s programmes.
Does meeting the eligibility criteria guarantee funding?
No, admission and scholarship selection are competitive and separate decisions.
CHECK THESE OUT:
École Normale Supérieure (ENS) International Selection Scholarships 2027 – Apply Now!
University of Oxford Research Council Scholarships 2027: Fully Funded PhD and Studentships