University of Cambridge Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026
Job Description
The University of Cambridge Mastercard Foundation Scholarship is a prestigious program designed to empower talented students from Africa with fully funded opportunities to pursue master’s studies.
The program nurtures transformative leadership, while fostering contributions to climate resilience and sustainability in Africa and beyond.
The scholarship, generously funded by the Mastercard Foundation, provides comprehensive support—covering full tuition fees, accommodation, living stipends, a laptop, books, and airfare.
This post highlights the details, eligibility requirements, benefits, timeline, and application process for interested candidates.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: United Kingdom (UK)
- Study Location: University of Cambridge
- Category: Postgraduate | Master’s Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All African countries
- Scholarship Coverage: Full tuition, accommodation, monthly stipends, airfare, and study resources
- Deadline: December 5, 2025, or January 5, 2026 (depending on the course)
About the Scholarship
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme at the University of Cambridge is now accepting applications for the 2026/2027 academic year.
The Foundation envisions a world where everyone has the opportunity to learn and thrive. By offering access to education, skills development, and financial support, the program helps economically disadvantaged young Africans lift themselves, their families, and their communities out of poverty.
Through this initiative, scholars are expected to not only excel academically but also demonstrate a strong commitment to giving back to their communities and advancing the themes of sustainability and climate resilience.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an African country and ordinarily resident in Africa (temporary absence for study/work is accepted if intending to return, or if displaced).
- Hold a bachelor’s degree and meet the entry requirements of their chosen course.
- Apply for a one-year, full-time master’s program at Cambridge (excluding MACC, MBA, MCL, and MFIN).
- Demonstrate academic excellence (most programs require the equivalent of a UK first-class or upper second-class degree).
- Show a strong commitment to leadership, sustainability, and climate resilience.
Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Free accommodation
- Monthly living stipend
- Airfare tickets
- Laptop and learning resources
- Books and study materials
Application Timeline
- December 5, 2025: Deadline for programs with a December closing date
- January 5, 2026: Deadline for programs with a January closing date
- March/April 2026: Offer letters for selected scholars are typically released
Application Process
- Begin your application by selecting a course from the University of Cambridge Postgraduate Course Directory.
- Submit your application for admission by the funding deadline of your chosen course (December 5, 2025, or January 5, 2026).
- During the process, opt in for funding to view eligible scholarships, including the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme.
- Provide a supplementary statement outlining your commitment to building a sustainable and climate-resilient future for Africa.
- Shortlisted applicants will be reviewed based on their course application and scholarship statement.
Apply here