Mastercard Foundation Scholarships 2026–2027: Fully Funded Opportunities at Top Universities in Africa, Europe, North America and Beyond

Overview

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers educational and professional development opportunities to talented young people encountering significant financial, social, or economic barriers to higher education. Through institutional partnerships, the programme supports students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, advancing entrepreneurial ventures, and preparing for community and continental leadership. The African Leadership College of Higher Education in Mauritius is one of the participating partner institutions, providing a full-ride scholarship pathway aimed at students from across Africa who demonstrate financial need, academic achievement, and leadership potential.

Who can apply

The opportunity is intended for students who face verified socioeconomic disadvantage and cannot afford tuition through other assistance. Candidates must first satisfy the admissions requirements of the African Leadership College of Higher Education before proceeding to scholarship evaluation. Key considerations for the scholarship include demonstrated financial need, academic achievement, leadership potential, and an interest in making a meaningful community impact. Very limited scholarships are available per intake, so meeting eligibility requirements does not guarantee an award.

What you get

Selected scholars receive a full-ride award that provides full tuition coverage alongside additional financial support throughout their journey at the institution. The programme incorporates practical learning, leadership development, and real-world problem-solving within a supportive academic community focused on innovation and societal contribution.

How to apply

The application process consists of five main stages, beginning with applying for admission to the African Leadership College of Higher Education. Candidates who are eligible for admission then complete a scholarship eligibility assessment to determine preliminary qualification. The subsequent scholarship application form may require household income details, personal circumstances including humanitarian and guardianship status, previous education financing history, video and essay responses, community referral letters, and official supporting documents. Following the scholarship application, candidates must complete the online ALCHE Fit Challenge exercises, which take approximately 25 minutes. Finally, a scholarship review committee evaluates submissions to select recipients.