University of Edinburgh Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027/28: Eligibility, Benefits, Deadlines and How to Apply
Overview
The University of Edinburgh Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides postgraduate scholarship opportunities for talented young people from Africa who have faced significant barriers to education. The program supports emerging leaders who are committed to driving positive change in their communities and addressing climate challenges. Study routes are available through both on-campus and online formats across selected postgraduate fields.
Who can apply
Candidates must be citizens and residents of an African country, or hold refugee status in an African country, and be aged 35 or younger at the start of the program. Applicants are required to have experienced significant barriers to education or early career development, such as financial, social, personal, practical, or health-related obstacles. Additionally, candidates must show a history of leadership and community service, along with experience or a clear ambition to contribute toward solving the climate crisis. For Master’s study, applicants typically need an undergraduate qualification equivalent to at least a UK Upper Second Class Honours degree.
What you get
The award offers comprehensive backing that extends beyond financial assistance for postgraduate studies, connecting recipients with an extensive academic and leadership network designed to build knowledge, skills, and professional connections. Scholars studying on campus receive assistance related to university admission and immigration procedures, whereas online scholars receive guidance throughout their admission journey.
How to apply
Applicants must begin by confirming their eligibility and selecting an appropriate program of study, then register for and attend a mandatory virtual information session held between 15 and 24 September 2026. Eligible candidates receive notifications regarding whether they can proceed on 13 October 2026, followed by a requirement to complete an Applicant Declaration Form by 19 October 2026. Those who pass this screening are granted access to the main scholarship application. Candidates applying specifically through this scholarship pathway should apply for the scholarship first rather than submitting a separate degree application initially.
Key dates
Mandatory virtual information sessions take place from 15 to 24 September 2026. Scholarship application invitations are issued on 13 October 2026, with the Applicant Declaration Form due by 19 October 2026 at 5pm UK time. The final deadline for the main scholarship application is 19 November 2026 at 5pm UK time. Application assessments occur between November 2026 and January 2027, followed by interviews from February to March 2027, interview outcomes by the end of March 2027, and the start of academic programs in September 2027.