The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is now open for Kenyan students seeking fully funded undergraduate and postgraduate places at 15 partner universities. These institutions include the University of Cambridge, UC Berkeley, Arizona State University, and several leading African universities. The program provides scholars with accommodation, monthly stipends, book allowances, travel support, and structured leadership development. It targets academically capable students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, with a focus on young women, refugees, and displaced youth.
The program goes beyond tuition coverage, offering a comprehensive support package to ensure scholars can focus on their studies. Each partner institution manages its own admissions process independently, meaning applicants must engage directly with the university they wish to attend. The Mastercard Foundation will reimburse application fees for scholars who are selected for the program.
The partner institutions include universities in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, France, and multiple African countries. In the UK, the University of Cambridge participates at the postgraduate level. In the US, both Arizona State University and UC Berkeley offer postgraduate scholarships under the program. Other international partners include Sciences Po in France and the University of British Columbia in Canada.
African universities participating in the program include the University of Cape Town, University of Pretoria, Makerere University, African Leadership University, and Carnegie Mellon University Africa. The American University of Beirut in Lebanon also participates, accepting both undergraduate and postgraduate applicants. A total of 15 universities are part of the program.
To apply, Kenyans should submit their applications directly through the partner institution they wish to attend. Each institution manages its own application process, deadlines, and admission fees. The Foundation recommends that applicants read through the application guidelines or contact the institution of choice for more information.
The Mastercard Foundation has warned applicants about fraudulent Facebook posts requesting application fees, clarifying that it does not charge individuals to apply. The Foundation stressed that no legitimate part of the application or selection process involves any fee. Prospective applicants are advised to consult only the foundation's official website and the admissions offices of listed partner institutions for accurate guidance.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program aims to support academically capable students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The program's focus on young women, refugees, and displaced youth reflects the foundation's commitment to promoting equity and inclusion in education. Interested applicants can visit the Mastercard Foundation's official website for more information on the program and the application process.
Key points
- The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers fully funded academic placements at 15 partner universities.
- The program provides a comprehensive support package, including accommodation, monthly stipends, and leadership development.
- Applicants should be aware of fraudulent Facebook posts requesting application fees and only consult official sources for guidance.
