Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po 2027 (Fully-funded)

Overview

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po is intended for students originating from the African continent who want to undertake a two-year Master’s degree at Sciences Po. The various Graduate Schools offer a diverse selection of specialisms tied to specific sectors and professions, along with paths for gaining professional experience to help students begin their careers.

Who can apply

Applicants must hold the citizenship of an African country and cannot hold dual citizenship that includes a country outside the African continent. Candidates must be under 35 years of age on September 1 of the year of application, must not already hold or currently pursue a Master’s degree, and must be applying to this program for the first time. In addition, candidates must meet at least one of three educational pathways: hold or be completing a Bachelor’s degree from an approved list of institutions; hold or be completing a Bachelor’s degree alongside participation in a recognized bridge or mentoring program from an approved organization; or hold or be completing a Bachelor’s degree while currently or previously holding UNHCR refugee status. Students currently enrolled at Sciences Po or enrolled in or graduated from a French higher education institution are not eligible.

What you get

The program provides complete financial coverage for all financial needs of selected Scholars, alongside comprehensive support across the two years of study at Sciences Po.

Requirements

Applicants must submit proof of identity such as a passport, national identity card, UNHCR card, or travel document. Candidates must also supply a bachelor’s degree certificate or proof of current undergraduate studies from a university on the reference list. If the applicant's university is not on that list, they must provide a transcript, diploma, or certificate showing they are completing or have completed a Bachelor’s degree, accompanied by a certificate of completion from a recognized bridge program, or supporting documentation verifying UNHCR refugee status.

Key dates

The application deadline is December 14, 2026.