Are you a young African professional with dreams of studying abroad but limited financial means? The MasterCard Scholarship 2025 at Arizona State University (ASU) offers a fully funded opportunity to pursue a master’s degree in the United States.
Designed to support leaders committed to ethical leadership and community impact, this scholarship program targets innovative thinkers ready to contribute to Africa’s digital and economic transformation.
MasterCard Scholarship 2025 at Arizona State University
This highly competitive program, funded by the MasterCard Foundation, will support 30 exceptional African students in the 2025/2026 academic year. Over five years, the initiative aims to educate 120 scholars, emphasizing fields aligned with technology and innovation. Scholars will engage in a two-year, full-time, on-campus master’s program at ASU, a leading research university in the U.S.
This scholarship covers all costs, including tuition, living expenses, travel, health insurance, and more, removing the barriers many talented individuals face. Through a robust support system that includes leadership training, professional mentorship, Microsoft internships, and networking opportunities, students will be equipped to succeed academically and become agents of change across the African continent.
MasterCard Scholarship 2025 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | United States |
| Study Destination | Arizona State University (ASU) |
| Scholarship Type | Master’s Degree (On-campus) |
| Funded By | MasterCard Foundation |
| Eligible Applicants | Young African Students |
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded (Tuition, Travel, Housing, Health, etc.) |
| IELTS/TOEFL | Required (Proof of English Proficiency) |
| Application Deadline | June 1, 2025 |
| Number of Awards | 30 (for 2025/2026 intake) |
| Study Mode | Full-Time, On-Campus |
| Academic Session | 2025-2027 |
What Makes the MasterCard Scholarship at ASU Unique?
This is more than just a scholarship; it is a development platform. Participants will be enrolled in a structured program focused on leadership, entrepreneurship, and digital innovation.
The scholarship covers:
- Full tuition, books, and university fees
- Round-trip airfare to and from Phoenix, Arizona
- Visa application and English test fees
- Health insurance and medical coverage
- On-campus accommodation and living expenses
- Participation in Microsoft internship programs
- Professional development and leadership training
- A two-month internship in Africa to enhance practical skills
By the time scholars graduate, they are expected not only to have gained a high-quality education but also to be prepared to return to their communities and help foster socio-economic growth.
Eligibility Criteria for the MasterCard Scholarship 2025
To be considered, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a country in Africa.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical leadership and community service.
- Be between the ages of 18 and 33 by the application deadline.
- Hold an undergraduate degree by July 2025.
- Have no prior graduate or master’s degree completed or in progress.
- Show academic excellence and financial need.
- Be proficient in English (IELTS/TOEFL scores required).
- Be able to relocate and live in Phoenix, Arizona, for the duration of the program.
Preference is actively given to women, individuals with disabilities, refugees, and displaced persons. The goal is to support a diverse cohort of future leaders who reflect the rich demographics of the African continent.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and upload the following:
- Completed online scholarship application form
- Academic transcripts
- Updated CV or resume
- Two letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
- Personal statement describing career goals and leadership history
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
- A valid passport or national identification card
It is advised that all documents be properly formatted and labeled for easier review. Incomplete applications or late submissions may not be considered.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Here’s how to apply for the MasterCard Scholarship 2025 at Arizona State University:
- Visit the Official Website
Go to the ASU MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program page to start your application.
- Complete the Application Form
Fill in all required fields honestly and carefully.
- Prepare and Upload Documents
Include all required documents such as your CV, transcripts, personal statement, and proof of English proficiency.
- Submit Before the Deadline
Ensure your application is submitted before June 1, 2025.
- Await Confirmation
Check your email regularly for confirmation, interview invitations, or requests for additional information.
Why Choose Arizona State University?
ASU has consistently been ranked as the most innovative university in the United States. With a strong emphasis on research, technology, and sustainability, it provides an ideal environment for students focused on solving real-world problems. Scholars will benefit from ASU’s global networks, top-tier faculty, and student-friendly campus culture.
Additionally, ASU’s proximity to leading tech firms and startups in Arizona offers unmatched exposure to industry trends and opportunities, especially for those in science, tech, and entrepreneurship-focused degrees.
For more details and to begin your application, visit the official ASU MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the scholarship open to all African countries?
Yes, students from all African nations are encouraged to apply, regardless of geographic region.
Can I apply if I’m currently in my final year of undergraduate studies?
Yes, as long as your degree is completed by July 2025, you are eligible to apply.
Are there age restrictions?
Yes. Applicants must be between 18 and 33 years old at the time of application.
What kind of master’s programs are eligible under this scholarship?
The focus is on programs related to technology, leadership, innovation, and development. Exactly eligible programs can be found on the ASU MasterCard Foundation page.
Do I need to take the IELTS or TOEFL?
Yes. Proof of English proficiency is mandatory, as the medium of instruction is English.
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