African students who want to lead in technology and innovation can apply for a fully funded master’s degree at Arizona State University (ASU). The 2027 Innovation and Technology Scholarship, offered through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, supports 30 graduate students for the 2027–2028 academic year.
However, selected scholars will study on ASU’s Tempe campus in Arizona, United States. In addition to full tuition, the award covers on-campus housing, healthcare, travel, and comprehensive support. Scholars also join leadership development, mentorship, and community-engagement activities that prepare them to drive social and economic progress at home.
Apply by 27 September 2026 at 23:59 GMT. For more African scholarships and graduate opportunities, visit OpportunityLab.
2027 Innovation and Technology Scholarship Programs
The scholarship supports full-time, on-campus master’s programs focused on technology, data, engineering, energy, and sustainable development. Applicants must choose one of the following ASU degrees:
- MS Global Technology and Development
- MS Information Technology
- MS Human Systems Engineering – Intelligent Systems
- MS Computer Science
- MS Data Science, Analytics and Engineering (Computing and Decision Analytics)
- MS Robotics and Autonomous Systems
- MS Civil, Environmental & Sustainable Engineering
- MS Clean Energy Systems
- MS Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use
In addition, each program prepares students to solve real-world challenges using technical skills, data, and innovation.
Programme Eligibility
Applicants must meet clear academic, age, and citizenship requirements. Therefore, review the criteria carefully before you start your application.
You are eligible if you:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree by August 2027 from a recognised institution
- Have a strong academic record, equivalent to at least a 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Meet ASU’s English language proficiency requirements for graduate study
- Are a citizen of an African country
- Are between 18 and 33 years old on or before 27 September 2026
- Show a record of leadership, service, and commitment to community change
- Have not previously enrolled in or completed a master’s or graduate degree
- Are not currently enrolled in another graduate program
- Can relocate to and live on ASU’s Tempe campus for the full two-year program
Higher education diplomas, certificates, and other non-degree credentials do not count as a bachelor’s degree.
What does the Programme Covers?
The award removes most financial barriers for graduate study in the United States. Consequently, scholars can focus on learning, research, and leadership.
The scholarship provides:
- Visa application processing costs
- An English language test voucher, if required
- An ASU graduate application fee waiver
- Round-trip airfare to Phoenix, Arizona
- Full tuition, required books, and student fees
- Medical support
- On-campus housing
- Leadership and signature programming
In addition, scholars benefit from mentorship, professional development, and community-engagement opportunities.
Benefits of the 2027 Innovation and Technology Scholarship
The scholarship removes most financial barriers for graduate study in the United States. As a result, scholars can focus on learning, research, and leadership.
The award provides:
- Visa application processing costs
- An English language test voucher, if required
- An ASU graduate application fee waiver
- Round-trip airfare to Phoenix, Arizona
- Full tuition, required books, and student fees
- Medical support
- On-campus housing
- Leadership and signature programming
In addition, scholars benefit from mentorship, professional development, and community-engagement opportunities. These experiences help them build networks, strengthen their leadership skills, and prepare for careers that create positive change in their communities.
How to Apply for the Programme
All applicants must complete the scholarship application first. Do not apply for ASU admission or to a degree program unless the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team instructs you to do so.
You can submit your application in two ways:
- Online application – Click “Next” on the application page and complete the form online.
- PDF application – If you have limited internet access, download the PDF version, complete it, and email it with your CV/resume, one letter of recommendation, and transcripts in PDF format to [email protected].
Applicants who advance will receive an interview invitation and guidance on the ASU admission process. Those invited to apply for admission will get an application fee waiver and should not pay any fees.
Therefore, before you submit, review all your answers and attachments. Once submitted, your application is final.
Deadlines and Contact Information
The deadline for all applications is 23:59 GMT on Sunday, 27 September 2026. Applications received after this time will not be considered.
If you have questions, read the FAQ document first. If your question is not answered there, email the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team at [email protected].
