The opportunity to change your future and make a difference in your community is knocking, as the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program 2024 opens its doors to ambitious and talented African students who are keen on making an impact. Being one of the most prominent education initiatives worldwide, the Scholarship Program provides comprehensive support for young people who are committed to giving back to their communities. Here’s everything you need to know about the fully-funded scholarship program for 2024.
What is the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program is a growing initiative that has vowed to empower young individuals through educational access and transformative leadership experiences. With a focus on promoting socio-economic growth, the program selects candidates who demonstrate a commitment to their home countries’ development and equips them with the knowledge and resources needed to excel[1].
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility criteria for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program include:
- Must be a citizen of an African country.
- Be ordinarily resident in an African country or have a clear intent to return after studying or working temporarily abroad.
- For those displaced, there’s consideration given to their circumstances.
- Applicants for graduate programs must be 35 years old or under at the time of application.
Participating Institutions
The Mastercard Foundation has partnered with education institutions worldwide to provide this opportunity. Some of the participating institutions for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program include:
- University of Western Cape
- African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS)
- American University of Beirut
- Arizona State University
- Carnegie Mellon University Africa
- McGill University
- University of Oxford
- Sciences Po
- University of British Columbia
- University of Cambridge
Each university offers unique opportunities and has its own specific requirements, so it is essential to research and contact the institution you are interested in directly[2].
Scholarship Benefits
Selected scholars will benefit from a complete scholarship package that will cover not just tuition fees, but also expenses like:
- Travel costs
- Accommodation
- Books
- Stipends
Scholars are also provided with comprehensive support including academic and social integration services, mentorship opportunities, and access to a global alumni network to ensure they can make the most of their education and become leaders in their respective fields[3].
How to Apply
Applicants should visit the official Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program webpage for detailed information on the application process for the academic year 2024/2025. The step-by-step application process, deadlines, and all necessary requirements can be found on the respective university’s scholarship information page.
It is crucial to apply early and pay attention to the details. You will need to gather documentation and possibly go through interviews or additional assessments, depending on the institution to which you are applying[4].
Final Thoughts
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program is more than just a scholarship; it’s a gateway to opportunities, a building block for community development, and a testament to the power of education. If you fit the eligibility criteria and are driven by a desire to contribute positively to society, this scholarship may very well be the golden ticket to your future.
Do you have what it takes to become a Mastercard Foundation Scholar? If so, take the next step and apply. Who knows? You might just join the ranks of leaders and innovators making a tangible difference in the world.