The France Sciences Po MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026 offers a fully funded opportunity for exceptional students from Sub-Saharan Africa to pursue master’s studies at one of France’s most prestigious universities, Sciences Po Paris.
The scholarship is designed for talented, ambitious, and socially committed young Africans who have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership potential but face financial or social barriers to higher education.
Through this program, scholars gain not only a world-class education but also mentorship, leadership training, and direct pathways to impactful careers in Africa.
Scholarship Summary
| Host Institution | Sciences Po, Paris – France |
| Program Type | MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program |
| Study Location | Europe (France) |
| Level of Study | Master’s Degree |
| Eligible Applicants | Citizens and residents of Sub-Saharan African countries |
| Funding Coverage | Fully Funded |
| Benefits | Full tuition, monthly stipend, housing, travel, and leadership training |
| Language Requirement | English or French (C1 level) |
| Application Deadline | January 4, 2026 |
About the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po
Launched in 2017, the partnership between Sciences Po and the MasterCard Foundation aims to empower young African leaders who will drive social and economic transformation across the continent.
Since its inception, over 130 students from Sub-Saharan Africa have been admitted through this program, benefiting from Sciences Po’s rigorous academic environment and its focus on social sciences, international relations, and public policy.
This initiative is part of the Foundation’s broader “Young Africa Works” strategy, which seeks to enable 30 million young Africans to secure dignified employment or entrepreneurship opportunities by 2030.
The program at Sciences Po aligns with this mission by nurturing change-makers committed to addressing Africa’s most pressing issues, including governance, climate change, economic inclusion, and gender equity.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Sciences Po MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Citizenship: Be a citizen and resident of a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Age Requirement: Be under 35 years old at the start of the 2026 academic year.
- Academic Qualification:
- Hold (or expect to hold) a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent by 2026.
- Must be applying to a two-year master’s program at one of Sciences Po’s seven graduate schools.
- Applicants to one-year or dual-degree programs are not eligible.
- Language Proficiency:
- Demonstrate C1 level proficiency in either English or French, depending on the language of instruction.(See the language requirements for each programme)
- Leadership and Commitment:
- Exhibit a strong desire to drive social and economic change in Africa.
- Show evidence of community involvement, advocacy, or leadership in social initiatives.
- Financial Need:
- Demonstrate a genuine need for financial assistance (proof will be required).
- Previous Degrees:
- Must not already hold or be pursuing a Master’s degree.
Scholarship Benefits
The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po provides comprehensive financial and academic support for the entire duration of the master’s program, including:
- Full tuition coverage at Sciences Po
- Monthly living stipend to cover personal and academic expenses
- Accommodation in Paris, with dedicated housing for scholars
- Travel allowance and round-trip airfare to France
- Visa and insurance coverage
- Leadership and professional development training
- Dedicated mentorship from academic and alumni advisors
- Career support, including internships and access to Sciences Po’s employer network in Africa
In addition to financial aid, scholars benefit from specialized workshops, personal coaching, and integration support upon arrival in Paris.
Academic Focus Areas
Sciences Po’s Master’s programs prepare students to address real-world challenges through a multidisciplinary approach. Scholars can specialize in fields such as:
- Public Policy and Governance
- International Affairs and Diplomacy
- Environmental Policy and Sustainability
- Development Economics
- Human Rights and Humanitarian Action
- Urban Planning and Innovation
Each program combines theory, research, and fieldwork to equip graduates with the expertise to create sustainable solutions in Africa.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents before submission:
- Valid passport or national ID
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- One recommendation letter from a university professor or supervisor
- Statement of financial need with supporting documents
- Motivation statement explaining:
- Your leadership journey and community engagement
- The challenges facing your country or region
- How you intend to use your education to contribute to Africa’s development
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé
- Proof of English or French proficiency
Note: The quality and authenticity of your motivation letter will play a major role in selection.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
Confirm Eligibility
- Visit the official Sciences Po MasterCard Foundation webpage and fill out the eligibility request form.
- If your application is pre-approved, you will be informed and exempted from the Sciences Po application fee.
Submit Your Application to Sciences Po
- Begin your online master’s application via the Sciences Po portal.
- Submit your application only after receiving confirmation of your scholarship eligibility and fee waiver.
- Attach all required documents before the deadline.
Selection and Results
- Sciences Po admission results are announced in February 2026.
- Scholarship results are released in March 2026.
- Please note that admission to Sciences Po does not automatically guarantee scholarship selection.
Support and Career Development
Scholars receive continued support throughout and after their studies, including:
- Pre-departure orientation and dedicated academic mentorship
- Professional guidance through career fairs and internship placements
- Access to the Africa Alumni Mentorship Program
- Entrepreneurship and innovation coaching to help scholars launch impactful projects across Africa
Graduates join a vibrant network of young leaders transforming their communities through research, governance, policy-making, and sustainable development.
For more details, visit the official website here.
Application Timeline
- Application Opens: September 2025
- Scholarship Deadline: January 4, 2026
- Admission Results: February 2026
- Scholarship Results: March 2026
FAQs
Is this scholarship only for Africans?
Yes. It is exclusively available to students from Sub-Saharan African countries.
Is IELTS required for the application?
No. Applicants can submit other proof of English or French proficiency (depending on program language).
Can I apply for a one-year or dual master’s degree?
No. Only two-year master’s programs at Sciences Po are eligible for the scholarship.
What type of support is offered beyond tuition?
The scholarship includes housing, mentorship, leadership training, and career placement support.
Can previous MasterCard Scholars apply
No. Applicants who already hold or are pursuing a master’s degree are not eligible.
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