Scholarship Overview
Overview
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Arizona State University (ASU) has entered its third phase, expanding access to graduate education focused on technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This phase provides 30 scholarship opportunities for young African professionals to pursue master’s degrees through full-time, on-campus programs in the United States.
The program emphasizes practical skills development through a mandatory two-month internship between the first and second years, leadership training, and connection to a broader community of Mastercard Foundation scholars across Africa and globally.
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What the Scholarship Covers
This is a comprehensive, fully funded scholarship that removes financial barriers to graduate study in the United States. The award includes:
- Full tuition and fees for the entire master’s program
- On-campus housing throughout the degree
- Books and academic materials
- Visa processing costs
- Airfare to and from the United States
- Medical expenses
- Leadership development programming
- Academic advising and ongoing support
- A two-month internship placement between years one and two
Eligible Master’s Programs
Scholarships are available exclusively for the following full-time, on-campus graduate programs at Arizona State University:
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- MS Global Technology and Development
- MS Information Technology
- MCS Computer Science
- MS Data Science Analytics & Engineering
- MS Robotics and Autonomous Systems
- MS Clean Energy Systems
- MS Civil, Environmental & Sustainable Engineering
- MS Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use
- MS Human Systems Engineering – Intelligent Systems
Who Can Apply
The scholarship targets young African professionals committed to returning skills and knowledge to their home communities. Key eligibility considerations include:
- African citizenship or permanent residency
- Professional experience relevant to technology, innovation, or entrepreneurship
- Commitment to contributing to social and economic growth in your home country after graduation
The program actively encourages applications from underrepresented groups. Women, refugees and displaced persons, and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
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Application Process
The application process requires careful preparation. Follow these steps:
- Review program requirements: Confirm you meet the admission criteria for your chosen ASU master’s program.
- Prepare supporting documents: Gather academic transcripts, professional references, and proof of English proficiency if required.
- Complete the scholarship application: Submit through the official portal by the deadline.
- Monitor communications: Check email regularly for interview requests or additional documentation needs.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: Sunday, September 27, 2026 at 23:59 GMT
Applicants should prepare well in advance, as U.S. graduate applications typically require standardized tests, credential evaluations, and visa processing that can take several months.
Program Structure and Delivery
The Innovation and Technology phase combines multiple educational pathways. While this specific scholarship covers full-time on-campus master’s degrees at ASU’s main campus in Arizona, the broader program also includes:
- Online degree programs for flexible learning
- Professional certificates
- English language learning opportunities
- Collaboration with institutions across Africa
This structure ensures scholars can access education regardless of their starting point, though the 2027-2028 scholarship specifically funds residential master’s study in the United States.
Expectations of Scholars
A core principle of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is community contribution. Scholars are expected to:
- Apply learned skills to foster social and economic growth in their home countries
- Engage actively in leadership development activities
- Participate in the broader Scholars Program community
- Complete the mandatory internship between academic years
Support for Zimbabwe and SADC Applicants
For applicants from Zimbabwe and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), this scholarship represents a significant opportunity to access U.S. graduate education without personal financial burden. The inclusion of visa costs, airfare, and medical expenses addresses common barriers faced by SADC nationals pursuing study abroad.
The program’s emphasis on clean energy systems, sustainable engineering, and modern energy production aligns with regional priorities in SADC countries, where energy access and infrastructure development remain critical challenges.
Contact and Resources
For questions not covered in this guide, contact the program directly at the email address provided in official communications. Additional resources include:
- FAQs document (available via official program page)
- Downloadable program flyer
