The University of Cambridge Mastercard Foundation Scholarship offers bright and motivated students from Africa a life-changing opportunity to pursue their master’s studies at one of the world’s leading universities. This fully funded program is not just about academics—it is designed to help scholars grow as transformative leaders who will make meaningful contributions to climate resilience, sustainability, and development in Africa and globally.
The scholarship, generously supported by the Mastercard Foundation, covers all major costs, including full tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, a laptop, books, and round-trip flights.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the scholarship—its eligibility requirements, benefits, duration, and step-by-step application process—to help you prepare a strong application if you’re interested in applying.
University of Cambridge Mastercard Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: United Kingdom (UK)
- Eligible Countries: All African Countries
- Deadline: January 5, 2026 (Varies by Program)
Details of the University of Cambridge Mastercard Scholarship
- Citizenship: You must be a national of an African country.
- Residency: You should normally live in an African country (not permanently based outside Africa).
- Academic Admission: You must apply for and gain admission to an eligible full-time master’s program at the University of Cambridge.
- Financial Need: Applicants should demonstrate that they come from a financially disadvantaged background and would not be able to study at Cambridge without this support.
- Leadership Potential: You should show a clear commitment to becoming a transformative leader, with the passion and vision to positively impact your community and Africa at large.
- Commitment to Africa: You must intend to return to Africa after your studies to apply your skills in tackling key challenges such as poverty, inequality, sustainability, and climate resilience.
- Course Eligibility: Most master’s programs are eligible, except for certain professional degrees like MBA, MFin, PGCE, and clinical medicine.
Eligibility for the University of Cambridge Mastercard Foundation Scholarship
- Must be a citizen of an African country.
- Must be ordinarily resident in Africa (temporary absence for study, work, or displacement is acceptable with the intent tthe o return).
- Must hold a bachelor’s degree before applying.
- Must meet the academic entry requirements of the chosen course at Cambridge.
- Must be applying for a full-time master’s program of up to one year in length.
- The following courses are not eligible:
- Master of Accountancy (MAcc)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Corporate Law (MCL)
- Master of Finance (MFin)
- Must show a commitment to leadership, community service, and giving back to your country or Africa.
- Must demonstrate a strong interest in sustainability and climate resilience, aligning with the program’s vision.
Benefits of the University of Cambridge Mastercard Scholarship
- Full Scholarship
- Accommodation
- Monthly Stipends
- Airfare Tickets
As part of the application, prospective scholars will need to submit a supplementary statement highlighting their personal commitment to building a climate-resilient and sustainable future for Africa. This is an important part of the selection process, as the scholarship looks for candidates who are not only academically strong but also passionate about making a positive impact.
Application Timeline:
- For courses with a 5 December 2025 deadline, funding applications must also be submitted by this date.
- For courses with a 5 January 2026 deadline, the same rule applies—your funding application must be submitted by then.
How to Apply for the University Scholarship 2026
- Step 1: Apply for admission
Begin by applying for your chosen master’s course through the University of Cambridge Course Directory. Make sure you complete your application by your course’s funding deadline.
- Step 2: Know the deadlines
- For courses with a December deadline → apply by 5 December 2025.
- For courses with a January deadline → apply by 5 January 2026.
- Always double-check your course’s deadline before submitting.
- Step 3: opt in for funding
During the application, you’ll be asked if you’d like to be considered for funding. If you select this option, you’ll see a list of scholarships you’re eligible for, including the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programs
- Step 4: .Application review
Only candidates who meet the course entry requirements and receive an offer from their department will be reviewed for the scholarship.
- Step 5: Selection & results
Scholars are chosen based on both their academic course application and their scholarship statement. Successful applicants usually receive offer letters in March or April
Visit the link to check out https://www.mastercardfoundation.fund.cam.ac.uk/
Application Deadline:
- Deadline: January 5, 2026 (Varies by Deadline)
FAQs
Q1. What is the Cambridge Mastercard Foundation Scholarship?
It is a fully funded program that supports academically talented students from Africa to pursue master’s degrees at the University of Cambridge. The scholarship aims to develop future leaders who are committed to contributing to Africa’s sustainable development.
Q2. Who can apply?
Applicants must be:
- Nationals of an African country.
- Applying for a full-time master’s degree at the University of Cambridge.
- Committed to returning to Africa after graduation to use their skills for impact.
Q3. What does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship is fully funded. It covers tuition fees, college fees, a living allowance, travel costs to and from the UK, and additional support such as leadership training and mentoring.
Q4. Which courses are eligible?
Most full-time master’s programs are eligible, except certain professional degrees (like MBA, MFin, PGCE, or clinical medicine).
Q5. How do I apply?
- Apply for admission to an eligible master’s course at the University of Cambridge via the Graduate Application Portal.
- In the funding section of the application, indicate that you want to be considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship.
- Submit all required supporting documents before the course deadline.
Q6. What documents are required?
You will typically need: academic transcripts, a CV/resume, a personal statement, two or three reference letters, proof of English language proficiency (if required), and a research proposal (for some courses).
Q7. Do I need a separate scholarship application?
No. You only need to complete the Cambridge course application and select the Mastercard Foundation option in the funding section.
Q8. What is the selection process?
Applicants are selected based on academic merit, leadership potential, financial need, and a strong commitment to making a positive difference in Africa. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview.
Q9. When is the deadline for the 2026 intake?
Deadlines vary by course, but most Cambridge master’s programs close for funding applications in December 2025 or January 2026. Applicants should check the specific deadline for their chosen course.
Q10. Is work experience required?
It is not always mandatory, but having relevant leadership, community service, or work experience that demonstrates your commitment to Africa’s development strengthens your application.
Q11. Can I apply for a PhD under this scholarship?
Currently, the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at Cambridge is only available for master’s degree programs, not for undergraduate or PhD studies.
Q12. What happens after graduation?
Scholars are expected to return to Africa and apply their knowledge, skills, and networks to tackle key challenges in their home countries. Alumni also become part of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars community across Africa and beyond.