The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, in partnership with Arizona State University (ASU), has opened applications for its Phase III: Innovation & Technology initiative. This next phase builds on previous success and seeks to empower African leaders through high-quality graduate education in technology, innovation, and sustainability. Between 2024 and 2030, the program plans to engage up to 600 to 700 young Africans through a mix of in-person, hybrid, and online learning paths, as well as certificate programs delivered in partnership with African institutions.
For the 2026 intake, the program offers 40 scholarships for students to enroll in full-time, on-campus master’s programs at ASU in priority fields such as MS Global Technology & Development, MSE Sustainable Engineering, MS Information Technology, MS Business Analytics, and MEd Learning Design & Technologies.
What the Scholarship Provides
Scholars accepted under this program receive full financial support for their two-year graduate degrees. This includes full tuition, accommodation, and other essential expenses. Participants also benefit from wrap-around support including individual mentorship, leadership development activities, and access to enriching events and academic programming.
Additionally, the program includes a 2-month internship between the first and second academic year, aligned with each scholar’s area of study—an opportunity to gain practical experience in their field.
Eligibility & Important Dates
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be citizens of African countries, with a commitment to ethical leadership and community engagement.
- Be aged 18 to 33 years by the application deadline
- Have completed or be on track to complete an undergraduate degree by July/August 2026
- Not have started or completed a graduate degree before August 2026
- Meet ASU’s admission requirements, including any English proficiency requirements
The application window opens Monday, 6 October 2025, and closes Sunday, 2 November 2025 at 23:59 GMT.
Applicants should first submit the scholarship application through the official portal; shortlisted candidates will then be guided through the ASU admission process.
Recommended Tips for a Successful Application
To strengthen your application and stand out among candidates, consider these tips:
- Tell a cohesive story: Use your Statement of Purpose to explain how your background, ambitions, and experiences align with innovation and technology, and how you intend to contribute to Africa’s progress.
- Demonstrate leadership & service: Highlight instances where you’ve taken initiative—through volunteer work, student organizations, local projects, or community engagement.
- Highlight academic and technical strength: Emphasize strong grades in STEM / quantitative courses, research projects, internships, or relevant technical skills.
- Choose recommenders wisely: Seek referees (professors, mentors, supervisors) who can speak concretely about your abilities, character, and readiness for graduate study.
- Submit early & carefully: Don’t wait until the last minute. Proofread thoroughly, ensure each document is properly formatted, and follow every instruction.
- Follow application instructions to the letter: Missing or misformatted documents, or failing to meet eligibility criteria, can lead to disqualification regardless of how strong the rest of your application is.