If you’re an ambitious student from Africa with dreams of studying at one of the world’s most prestigious universities, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge offers you a life-changing opportunity. This scholarship supports talented individuals who not only excel academically but also show a strong commitment to community impact, sustainability, and leadership.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for this program, you must first hold a bachelor’s degree. Additionally, you need to meet the academic entry requirements of your chosen course. Some courses require the equivalent of a UK first-class honours degree, while others accept an upper second-class degree. Therefore, it’s important to consult the postgraduate course directory to verify what your program demands.
Another key requirement is residency. You must be from and currently live in an African country. However, if you’re temporarily studying or working outside Africa, you may still apply. Furthermore, you can choose from any full-time master’s program except for the following:
- Master of Accountancy (MACC)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Corporate Law (MCL)
- Master of Finance (MFIN)
Beyond academics, the program emphasizes values. Applicants must demonstrate a genuine commitment to giving back, whether to their local community, their home country, or Africa at large, with a special focus on sustainability and climate resilience.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Start your application via the postgraduate course directory, click “Apply Now,” and create an account.
- Request a fee waiver (if needed) by 15 November 2025 before submitting your course application.
- Apply for funding, select the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, and submit your scholarship statement (career history, leadership potential, goals, and sustainability vision).
- Submit your full application by your course’s funding deadline (early December 2025 or January 2026).
- Department review: academic departments assess applications; some may invite you for an interview.
- Scholarship selection: The Mastercard Foundation team reviews shortlisted applicants and sends offers in March–April 2026.
- Submit outstanding documents (e.g., IELTS or English proficiency proof) by 31 July 2026.
The Mastercard Foundation team then evaluates shortlisted candidates. Successful scholars typically receive their offer between March and April 2026. Afterward, you must provide any outstanding documents, including proof of English proficiency, by 31 July 2026. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge opens doors to world-class education while equipping African leaders to create sustainable change. With careful preparation and timely application, you could join the next cohort of scholars driving positive transformation across the continent.
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Use the postgraduate course directory to check your course’s entry requirements, funding deadline, and the supporting documents you’ll need: www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses
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Check if your degree meets Cambridge’s academic entry requirements using the international qualifications checker: www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/international-qualifications
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Check if you’re eligible for an automatic application fee waiver from the university: www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/apply/how/application-fee-waiver
