The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 is one of the major education and leadership opportunities for talented young people from underrepresented backgrounds, particularly across Africa.
However, there is something important every applicant should know: there is no single Mastercard Foundation Scholarship application form.
The program works through partner universities and organisations. Each partner manages its own applications, eligibility requirements, courses and deadlines. This means the correct way to apply is to first identify an eligible partner institution and then follow that institution’s official application process.
If you have been searching for information about the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027, this guide explains how the program works, who may be eligible, where to apply and how to avoid common application mistakes.
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027: Quick Overview
| Program | Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program |
|---|---|
| Application type | Through partner institutions |
| General application portal | No single global application form |
| Study levels | Vary by partner institution |
| Main focus | Education, leadership and transition to meaningful work |
| Application deadlines | Set individually by each partner |
| Main target group | Varies by partner, with a strong focus on talented young people from underrepresented backgrounds |
| Official starting point | Mastercard Foundation partner institution directory |
The program is implemented through partner universities and organisations, which manage their own selection processes and application timelines.
What Is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global education initiative designed to help talented, service-oriented young people access higher education and develop their leadership potential.
The support offered can go beyond academic funding. Depending on the partner institution and programme, Scholars may receive a combination of financial, academic and social support designed to help them succeed in education and transition into meaningful work.
The program has committed tens of thousands of scholarship opportunities through its network of partners, with a long-term focus on developing transformative leaders and expanding access to education.
Is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 Open?
The answer depends on which university or institution you want to attend.
Some partner institutions currently show open applications, while others have closed applications or upcoming cycles. For example, the Foundation’s official partner directory currently lists institutions including Cambridge, Arizona State University, Carnegie Mellon University Africa, Makerere University and others, with application status varying by institution.
This is why applicants should avoid relying on social media flyers that simply say:
“Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 is now open.”
That statement may be true for one partner institution and completely incorrect for another.
The safest approach is to check the official partner directory:
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: Where to Apply
Who Can Apply?
There is no single eligibility requirement for every Mastercard Foundation Scholar.
Each partner institution sets its own criteria. However, official Mastercard Foundation guidance indicates that partner institutions may consider factors such as:
- Academic strength.
- Leadership potential.
- Community engagement.
- Financial need.
- Educational barriers or disadvantage.
- A commitment to creating positive change.
- Your plans to give back to your community or society.
The program also places emphasis on inclusion, with particular attention across its network to groups that may include young women, persons with disabilities, refugees and forcibly displaced young people. Exact eligibility still depends on the individual partner institution.
Mastercard Foundation Partner Universities
The Foundation works with universities and organisations in different parts of the world.
Its official directory currently includes institutions such as:
- African Leadership University
- American University of Beirut
- Arizona State University
- University of Cambridge
- Carnegie Mellon University Africa
- Makerere University
- University of British Columbia
- University of Edinburgh
- Sciences Po
- University of California, Berkeley
The available study levels and application status differ between institutions, so always check the official partner listing before preparing an application.
Important: A university being a Mastercard Foundation partner does not automatically mean every programme at that university is covered.
Current and Upcoming Opportunities to Watch
University of Cambridge
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Cambridge is preparing for entry in October 2027. The official Cambridge programme says applications open in September, and the scholarship is for eligible students pursuing a Master’s degree. It is not for PhD or undergraduate applicants.
This is one opportunity worth monitoring closely.
University of British Columbia
The official UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program states that applications for its Winter 2027 intake open from August 31, 2026.
Eligible applicants must meet requirements that include holding a bachelor’s degree, not already having a master’s degree, being 35 or younger at the time of application, being a citizen or refugee of an African country, and applying to an eligible Master’s programme.
How to Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Step 1: Find a partner institution
Start with the official Mastercard Foundation directory and identify universities offering a programme that matches your academic level and goals.
View the official partner institutions
Step 2: Check the institution’s eligibility requirements
Do not assume that eligibility at one university applies to another.
Check:
- Citizenship or residency requirements.
- Academic qualifications.
- Age requirements, where applicable.
- Eligible courses.
- Financial need requirements.
- Required documents.
- Application deadlines.
Each partner sets its own requirements.
Step 3: Check whether applications are open
Some partners may have open applications while others are closed or preparing for the next cycle.
Always use the official university or partner page rather than relying only on scholarship blogs, WhatsApp messages or social media flyers.
Step 4: Prepare your application early
Requirements vary, but some institutions may ask for:
- Academic records.
- Personal statements or essays.
- Recommendation letters.
- Evidence of leadership or community involvement.
- Financial or background information.
Many partners require recommendations, so contact suitable referees early.
Step 5: Submit through the correct institution
Remember: you do not submit one general Mastercard Foundation application to the Foundation itself.
Apply directly through the partner university or organisation you want to attend.
What Makes a Strong Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Application?
The official application guidance from partner institutions highlights five important areas.
1. Academic excellence
You should demonstrate that you can succeed academically, based on the requirements of the institution and programme you choose.
2. Leadership potential
Leadership is not only about having a major title.
You may have demonstrated leadership by solving a problem, starting an initiative, supporting others, organising a project or taking responsibility in your school or community.
3. Community engagement
A strong application should help the selection team understand your connection to your community and the positive contribution you hope to make.
4. Self-awareness
Your personal story matters.
Be honest about your journey, challenges, achievements and the experiences that shaped your goals.
5. A unique perspective
The programme looks beyond grades. Your ideas, experiences and vision for creating change can help your application stand out.
Common Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Application Mistakes
The Foundation’s application guidance warns against mistakes such as being dishonest or fabricating information and plagiarism.
Other mistakes to avoid include:
- Applying without carefully reading the partner’s requirements.
- Waiting until the last minute.
- Sending incomplete documents.
- Using generic essays for every university.
- Choosing a programme without explaining why it fits your goals.
- Failing to follow instructions.
Your application should be honest, specific and carefully tailored to the institution you are applying to.
Beware of Fake Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Links
The Mastercard Foundation has warned about fraudulent social media posts claiming to recruit Scholars or requesting application fees. The Foundation itself does not solicit funding or request payments from individuals to access the Scholars Program. However, partner institutions may have their own admissions fees as part of their normal university application processes.
The safest rule is simple:
Only use application links from the official Mastercard Foundation website or directly from the official website of a listed partner institution.
Related Scholarship Opportunities
If you are searching for other major international opportunities, you may also find these guides helpful:
- Top 15 Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students – This is our complete guide to major scholarship opportunities for international students across different countries and study destinations.
- McCall MacBain Scholarship 2027 – Planning to study in Canada? Explore the McCall MacBain Scholarship at McGill University, including funding, eligibility and application deadlines.
- Commonwealth Fellowship Programme 2027 – If you are a mid-career professional or eligible academic, explore the current Commonwealth Fellowship opportunity in the UK.
- Chevening Scholarship Guide – Planning for a Master’s degree in the UK? Read our detailed guide to the Chevening Scholarship and its application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there one Mastercard Foundation Scholarship application form?
No. Applications are managed by individual partner universities and organisations. You must apply through the partner institution you wish to attend.
Can I apply to more than one partner university?
Yes. The Foundation’s FAQ states that candidates can apply to multiple partner universities, although each application requires time and effort and may involve separate university admission processes.
Is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program only for undergraduate students?
No. Available study levels vary by partner. Some institutions offer undergraduate opportunities, while others focus on postgraduate study.
Is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program only for African students?
Eligibility varies by partner institution. Many opportunities focus strongly on talented young people from Africa, but applicants should always check the requirements of the specific institution and programme.
When is the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 deadline?
There is no single deadline. Each partner institution sets its own application timeline.
Final Thoughts
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 can be a life-changing opportunity, but the application process can be confusing if you are looking for one general application form.
The key is to start with the official partner directory, identify institutions that match your academic level and goals, and then follow the exact application process for that institution.
Start your search through the official Mastercard Foundation partner directory:
Find an official Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program partner
NB: If you’re actively applying for remote positions, you can also explore current opportunities such as the AirDNA Account Executive – DMO job.
