Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po 2027: Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships in France
Overview
Sciences Po in France offers the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program to eligible students from across the African continent. The initiative aims to expand access to quality higher education and support the development of future leaders who are committed to contributing to their communities and countries. The scholarship provides academic guidance and financial support to selected scholars undertaking eligible two-year master’s degrees.
Who can apply
Applicants must hold citizenship of an African country, though individuals with dual citizenship that includes a country outside Africa are ineligible. Candidates must hold or be completing a bachelor’s degree from an approved list of universities, or alternatively qualify by holding recognised refugee status from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees or by having participated in an approved bridge or mentoring programme.
Applicants must be under 35 years old on the first of September of the application year, and they must not already hold or currently pursue a master’s degree. Candidates must be applying to the programme for the first time. Individuals currently enrolled at Sciences Po, as well as those currently enrolled in or already graduated from a French higher education institution, are ineligible. Additionally, applicants must secure admission to an eligible two-year master’s programme at Sciences Po through the International Graduate Admissions Procedure and meet the minimum academic requirements for their country of previous education.
What you get
The programme covers the full financial needs of selected scholars throughout their two years of study at France. Additional support includes assistance from the programme team regarding arrival and integration, as well as online information sessions to help incoming scholars understand the transition to France and familiarise themselves with the academic environment.
How to apply
Applicants must verify their eligibility and check the minimum academic results required by Sciences Po for their country. Candidates apply for admission through the International Graduate Admissions Procedure by submitting required documents such as academic transcripts, language test results, and compliant academic recommendations. Eligible candidates may apply for the scholarship through the dedicated scholarship application platform, which also allows qualifying applicants to request an application fee waiver for eligible two-year master’s programmes. The selection process involves application review, interviews, and a final scholarship decision.