The American University of Beirut (AUB), in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, is inviting outstanding African students and refugees residing in Africa to apply for the 2025–2026 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. This fully funded program is designed to equip talented young people with the academic knowledge, leadership skills, and ethical grounding needed to drive meaningful change in their communities and across the African continent.
Through this initiative, AUB and the Mastercard Foundation aim to develop a new generation of transformative leaders who are committed to creating inclusive, equitable, and sustainable societies. Scholars admitted to the program will not only receive a world-class education but will also engage in community service, leadership workshops, mentoring, and experiential learning opportunities that nurture both academic excellence and social responsibility.
The program underscores AUB’s mission to empower youth through education while advancing the Mastercard Foundation’s vision of a world where all people have the opportunity to learn and prosper.
Fields of Study
For the 2025–2026 academic year, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at AUB is open to PhD-level applicants who wish to pursue studies on campus in the following disciplines:
- Theoretical Physics
- Biomedical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Environmental and Water Resources Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Epidemiology
Each field provides an opportunity to engage in high-level research guided by AUB’s distinguished faculty and to contribute to innovative solutions that address global and regional challenges.
Please note: Applications for on-campus Master’s scholarships for the Fall 2025–2026 intake have officially closed. However, PhD applicants are strongly encouraged to apply within the designated timeframe.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at AUB, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship: Be a national of an African country or a refugee currently residing in Africa.
- Age Limit: Applicants must be 35 years of age or younger at the time of application.
- Academic Excellence: Possess a strong academic record and demonstrate outstanding potential for graduate-level study and research.
- Financial Need: Show evidence of facing significant financial barriers that would otherwise limit their access to higher education.
- Leadership and Community Commitment: Exhibit proven leadership qualities, a spirit of service, and a clear commitment to making a positive difference within their home communities.
- Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English through recognized tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test (DET), or other acceptable equivalents.
The ideal candidate is someone who combines intellectual ability with social vision—an individual motivated to use knowledge and research to tackle pressing challenges in their country and the wider African region.
Scholarship Coverage and Benefits
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at AUB provides comprehensive support to ensure that scholars can focus entirely on their studies and personal development. Benefits include:
- Full tuition coverage for the duration of the program
- Free accommodation and living stipends
- Book and learning material allowances
- Laptop and other essential study resources
- Travel costs for eligible students
- Access to academic and psychological support services
- Participation in leadership training, mentorship programs, and community engagement projects
Beyond financial support, scholars benefit from an enriching academic environment, networking opportunities, and exposure to multidisciplinary research and innovation.
Application Process
Interested applicants must complete the following steps to apply for the 2025–2026 PhD intake:
- Online Application: Submit an online graduate admission form through the official AUB admission portal before the stated deadline.
- Select the Funding Option: Within the application, select the “Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program” under the financial aid opportunities section.
- Supporting Documents: Prepare and upload all required documents, including academic transcripts, certificates, English language test scores, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
- Financial Aid Form (if applicable): For Master’s applicants in future cycles, an additional financial aid form may be required following submission of the graduate application.
- Deadline: The deadline for PhD applications is November 6, 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Applicants are encouraged to start early and ensure that their submissions reflect both academic readiness and a genuine passion for community development.
Why You Should Apply
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at AUB offers more than just a degree—it offers a platform for transformation. Scholars join a global community of young leaders committed to social and economic progress across Africa. They gain not only academic qualifications but also the confidence, critical thinking, and professional networks necessary to lead change in their home countries.
Studying at AUB means becoming part of one of the most prestigious universities in the Middle East, known for its academic excellence, research impact, and commitment to social responsibility. The multicultural environment fosters intellectual curiosity and collaboration among students from diverse backgrounds.
Graduates of the program emerge as innovators, policy influencers, educators, and entrepreneurs who contribute meaningfully to solving real-world challenges—whether in education, health, technology, climate change, or governance.
Conclusion
The AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2025–2026 represents a life-changing opportunity for young Africans determined to create a better future for themselves and their communities. By providing access to quality education, leadership training, and holistic development, the program empowers scholars to become agents of positive change across the continent.
Application Deadline: November 6, 2025
Eligible and motivated candidates are encouraged to apply and take the first step toward joining a network of visionary leaders shaping Africa’s future through knowledge, innovation, and service.
To apply: https://aub.edu.lb/graduatecouncil/Pages/default.aspx
