Are you a young African professional eager to pursue graduate studies in the United States without financial constraints? The MasterCard Scholarship 2026 at Arizona State University (ASU) provides this unique opportunity through a fully funded program designed to nurture future leaders in technology, innovation, and sustainable development.
By offering comprehensive support, this scholarship empowers promising African students to excel academically, professionally, and personally while preparing to make meaningful contributions to their home countries.
MasterCard Scholarship 2026 at Arizona State University
The MasterCard Scholarship 2026 is part of the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program, a global initiative created to provide transformative education opportunities for talented yet economically disadvantaged young people. At Arizona State University, the program is tailored to train 120 African scholars over five years, with 30 scholarships available for the 2025/2026 academic session.
This initiative aims to equip scholars with skills in high demand across Africa’s rapidly growing digital economy. By combining classroom education with leadership development, internships, and mentorship, the scholarship ensures that graduates emerge ready to drive innovation and tackle pressing challenges in their communities.
MasterCard Scholarship 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | United States |
| Study Destination | Arizona State University (ASU) |
| Scholarship Type | Master’s Degree (Graduate Studies) |
| Funded By | MasterCard Foundation |
| Eligible Applicants | Young African Students |
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded (Tuition, Stipend, Housing, Medical Insurance, Airfare, Visa Costs) |
| IELTS/TOEFL | Required |
| Application Deadline | September 14, 2025 (23:59 GMT) |
| Number of Awards | 30 for 2026 intake |
| Study Mode | Full-Time, On-Campus |
| Academic Session | 2026-2028 |
What Is the MasterCard Scholarship 2026 All About?
The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU is more than just financial support; it is a leadership development platform. Recipients benefit from a traditional two-year, on-campus master’s program with complete funding, ensuring that students can focus on learning rather than financial burdens.
In addition to academic coursework, students participate in targeted activities, including leadership training, networking events, and mentorship sessions. Each scholar also participates in part-time work opportunities on campus and a mandatory two-month internship in Africa. This internship ensures that their education remains connected to the realities of their home regions while promoting practical problem-solving skills.
Unlike conventional scholarships that simply cover costs, this program emphasizes community impact. Scholars are expected to return home after graduation and actively contribute to the growth and development of their countries, reinforcing the program’s commitment to long-term societal transformation.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the MasterCard Scholarship 2026 at Arizona State University, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a national of an African country.
- Age: Between 18 and 33 years old at the time of application.
- Academic Qualification: A completed undergraduate degree by August 2026 with strong academic performance.
- Graduate Admission: Must qualify academically for admission into an eligible ASU master’s program, including meeting English proficiency requirements (IELTS or TOEFL).
- Leadership and Service: Demonstrated history of leadership, community service, or social impact activities.
- Financial Need: Must show evidence of limited financial resources preventing self-funding of graduate education.
- Exclusions: Applicants must not have previously started or completed another master’s degree before August 2026.
- Residency Requirement: Must be willing and able to reside in Phoenix, Arizona, for the full duration of the program.
Priority is given to women, refugees, displaced persons, and individuals with disabilities to ensure diverse representation within the cohort.
Scholarship Benefits
The MasterCard Scholarship 2026 provides one of the most comprehensive funding packages available for African students in the United States. Benefits include:
- Full coverage of tuition fees, books, and academic materials.
- Visa application processing fees and support throughout the visa process.
- Costs associated with English language proficiency tests (IELTS/TOEFL).
- Program application fees are covered entirely.
- Airfare for round-trip travel between the scholar’s home country and Phoenix, Arizona.
- On-campus housing costs, ensuring safe and secure accommodation.
- Medical insurance and health-related expenses.
- Monthly stipend for daily living expenses.
- Participation in leadership development, mentorship programs, and career-building events.
- A two-month internship in Africa to apply academic knowledge in real-world settings.
This robust support structure ensures that scholars are not only financially supported but also professionally and personally empowered to succeed.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare a complete application package including:
- Completed scholarship application form.
- Official academic transcripts and certificates.
- Updated CV or resume.
- Two letters of recommendation (academic and/or professional).
- A well-written personal statement highlighting career goals, leadership experience, and community impact.
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
- Valid passport or national identification document.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Here is the application process for the MasterCard Scholarship 2026 at ASU:
Visit the Official Website: Access the ASU MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program page to review eligibility requirements and scholarship guidelines.
Prepare Your Documents: Gather all required documents, including transcripts, recommendation letters, and personal statements.
Complete the Online Application Form: Fill out the scholarship application form carefully, ensuring accuracy in all sections.
Upload Documents: Submit all required documents online through the official ASU portal.
Submit Before Deadline: Ensure your application is submitted before September 14, 2025, at 23:59 GMT.
Await Feedback: Applicants will be notified of application status via email and may be invited for interviews or additional assessments.
Why Study at Arizona State University with the MasterCard Scholarship?
- Academic Reputation: ASU is consistently ranked among the most innovative universities in the United States.
- Cutting-Edge Programs: The scholarship emphasizes fields related to technology and innovation, positioning graduates for success in Africa’s digital economy.
- Global Network: Scholars join an international community of MasterCard Foundation alumni, creating lasting professional and personal connections.
- Practical Training: With mandatory internships, mentorships, and work experience, students acquire hands-on knowledge to complement classroom learning.
- Commitment to Africa: By encouraging scholars to return home after graduation, the program fosters sustainable growth across African nations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the scholarship?
Young African students aged 18-33 with strong academic records, leadership experience, and financial need are eligible.
What costs are covered under the scholarship?
The scholarship covers tuition, housing, airfare, visa fees, medical expenses, books, and living allowances.
Do I need to take the IELTS or TOEFL?
Yes. Proof of English proficiency is required for admission to Arizona State University.
Can I apply if I already hold a master’s degree?
No. Applicants must not have started or completed another graduate program before August 2026.
Is work experience required?
While professional experience is an advantage, the program mainly emphasizes leadership potential, community engagement, and academic excellence.
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