Applications are open for the University of Cambridge Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for the 2027/2028 academic year.
Designed for exceptional African students, this scholarship delivers full financial backing to help emerging leaders earn a master's degree while advancing climate resilience and sustainable development across Africa.
The initiative aims to remove financial barriers for economically disadvantaged students, offering access to world-class academic training, leadership mentoring, and an expansive global alumni network.
Program Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Host Institution | University of Cambridge, United Kingdom |
| Degree Level | One-Year Master’s Degree (Postgraduate) |
| Target Candidates | Citizens of African countries |
| Funding Level | Fully Funded |
| Core Themes | Climate resilience, sustainability, and transformative leadership |
| Application Deadline | December 5, 2026 or January 5, 2027 (varies by chosen course) |
Scholarship Coverage and Benefits
Recipients receive end-to-end funding covering the total cost of attending Cambridge:
- Full Tuition Fees: Complete waiver of Cambridge university composition and course fees.
- Living Allowance: A regular monthly maintenance stipend to support general living expenses.
- Accommodation Support: Assistance securing and paying for residence within a Cambridge college.
- Travel & Immigration: Economy round-trip airfare, UK student visa application fees, and the International Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Study Resources: A personal laptop and an allowance for textbooks and essential course materials.
- Leadership Development: Tailored pre-departure training, skill-building workshops, and career transition support.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must meet both the University's academic standards and the foundation's requirements:
- Citizenship & Residency: Must be a citizen of an African nation and currently residing in Africa. Applicants temporarily outside the continent for employment or education remain eligible if they intend to return. Displaced individuals and candidates with refugee status are encouraged to apply.
- Academic Background: Must hold a recognized bachelor’s degree meeting Cambridge’s entry criteria (typically equivalent to a UK First-Class or Upper Second-Class [2:1] Honours degree, depending on the program).
- Course Selection: Must apply for an eligible full-time, one-year master’s course.
- Excluded programs: Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Finance (MFin), Master of Corporate Law (MCL), and Master of Accountancy (MAcc).
- Community Impact: Must demonstrate an established track record of leadership and an active commitment to helping communities in Africa advance climate resilience and sustainability.
Application Deadlines
The funding deadline is tied to your specific course rather than a single universal date:
- Early December Cohort: December 5, 2026 (for programs with early December closing dates).
- Early January Cohort: January 5, 2027 (for programs with early January closing dates).
Always check the postgraduate study directory to verify your course's specific funding cut-off, as late submissions are not considered for scholarship funding.
How to Apply
Applying for the scholarship is integrated directly into the standard Cambridge postgraduate admission process:
- Select an Eligible Master's Program: Browse the Cambridge Postgraduate Course Directory to find an eligible one-year master's program aligned with your goals.
- Confirm Academic Equivalency: Use the university's International Qualifications tool under the course "Requirements" tab to ensure your undergraduate degree meets entry thresholds.
- Open an Application: Select "Apply Now" on your course page and set up an account in the Applicant Portal.
- Claim the Fee Waiver: Request an application fee waiver within the portal (all eligible Mastercard Foundation applicants can apply for a waiver on the standard £85 fee).
- Opt Into the Scholarship: Under the funding section of the application form, select the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
- Submit the Personal Statement: Provide the required supplementary statement outlining your leadership background, financial context, and plans to contribute to Africa’s sustainable future.
- Select a Cambridge College: Indicate your college preferences, where you will reside and access community events during your study year.
- Submit Ahead of the Funding Deadline: Upload all transcripts, references, and supporting materials before your course's designated December or January funding cutoff.
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