The University of California, Berkeley, in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, invites applications for the 2026/2027 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. This prestigious and fully funded initiative supports exceptional young Africans who demonstrate a commitment to positive change, strong leadership potential, and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities and the African continent at large.
The program forms part of a broader Mastercard Foundation strategy aimed at nurturing a new generation of transformative leaders. It provides scholars not only with financial support, but also with extensive leadership training, mentorship, and access to a global network of professionals and changemakers dedicated to social and economic progress.
Program Focus and Objectives
The overarching goal of the Scholars Program is to empower academically talented but economically disadvantaged young Africans. Through world-class graduate education at UC Berkeley, scholars gain the knowledge, confidence, and professional exposure required to address the pressing challenges facing their home countries. By cultivating ethical leadership, community engagement, and innovation, the program seeks to accelerate Africa’s development through its alumni.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must satisfy several core requirements. Candidates must be citizens of an African country, including individuals who hold refugee or displaced status within the continent. Applicants with citizenship, permanent residency, or asylum status in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, or European Union countries are not eligible.
Applicants must also apply for admission to a master’s degree program at the University of California, Berkeley. Academic excellence and a demonstrated commitment to leadership are central to the selection criteria. The program specifically seeks individuals who have shown resilience in overcoming barriers—whether financial, social, or related to health while pursuing education. A strong record of community involvement, volunteer service, or social impact is especially valued.
Finally, applicants must express a clear intention to return to their home countries after completing their studies. This requirement ensures that the program’s benefits extend beyond individual scholars to the broader communities and sectors they serve.
When applicants are equally strong, preference may be given to candidates who completed their undergraduate education at an institution based in Africa, do not already hold a postgraduate degree, and have not previously benefited from a Mastercard Foundation scholarship.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful scholars receive a comprehensive financial package that covers all essential expenses required to excel academically and personally while studying at UC Berkeley. The scholarship provides full tuition, student fees, and a living stipend to support housing, meals, and personal necessities. Additional benefits include health insurance, travel support for round-trip airfare to Berkeley, and assistance with visa and immigration-related costs.
Beyond financial coverage, scholars gain access to tailored leadership development programs, career guidance, academic mentorship, and personal support services to help them adapt to life in the United States. Students enrolled in multi-semester programs also participate in an internship in Africa, allowing them to apply their academic knowledge directly to community-focused projects.
Upon graduation, scholars join the global Mastercard Foundation Scholars community. Alumni gain access to exclusive professional networks, capacity-building resources, and opportunities such as the Alumni Scholars Impact Fund, which supports initiatives aimed at improving lives and strengthening local economies across Africa.
Application Process
The application process begins with candidates applying directly to their intended UC Berkeley master’s program. Departments nominate competitive candidates to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Shortlisted applicants then complete a supplementary scholarship application, participate in interviews, and undergo final review before selection.
