Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Opens 40 Graduate Opportunities at ASU

Applications are now open for the 2026 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Arizona State University. The initiative offers 40 full scholarships for African students to pursue graduate degrees. The deadline for submissions is November 2, 2025.

This partnership blends online learning from ASU with in-person support from Kepler College in Rwanda. The program aims to develop a new generation of ethical leaders for Africa.

Scholarship Covers Full Academic and Living Expenses

The comprehensive scholarship package removes all financial barriers. It covers full tuition, books, fees, and student housing. It also includes medical insurance and travel costs to and from Rwanda.

According to program details, the scholarship also covers pre-admission costs. These include visa application fees, English language tests, and program application expenses. This ensures that financial constraints do not hinder qualified candidates.

Program Focuses on Community-Driven Leadership

Eligibility requires a proven commitment to community service and ethical leadership. Applicants must be citizens of an African country aged between 18 and 33. They must hold an undergraduate degree and not have begun another graduate program.

The selected scholars will enroll in one of five specified graduate programs. These include Sustainable Engineering, Business Analytics, and Information Technology. The model combines ASU’s online curriculum with a supportive, in-person cohort experience in Kigali.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program represents a significant investment in Africa’s future leaders. It provides a unique, blended learning model for high-potential students. This initiative directly tackles the financial and structural barriers to world-class graduate education.

Thought you’d like to know-

What graduate programs are available through this scholarship?

The scholarship covers five specific ASU master’s degrees. These are MS Global Technology and Development, MSE Sustainable Engineering, and MS Information Technology. It also includes MS Business Analytics and MEd Learning Design and Technologies.

Who is eligible to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?

Applicants must be citizens of an African country between 18 and 33 years old. They must have an undergraduate degree and demonstrate a history of community leadership. They must also commit to residing in Kigali, Rwanda for the program’s duration.

What costs does the scholarship fully cover?

The scholarship is comprehensive. It covers all tuition, books, fees, and housing. It also includes medical insurance, travel to Rwanda, and pre-admission testing and application costs.

What is the application deadline for the 2026 program?

The final deadline for all applications is November 2, 2025. All applications must be submitted by 23:59 GMT on that date. The program does not accept applications after this deadline.

Where will the scholars reside during their studies?

Scholars will live in Kigali, Rwanda for the entire program. They will take ASU courses online while receiving in-person support and services from the local partner, Kepler College.