Status checked 15 August 2026: The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program does not use one general 2026 application portal. The Foundation says that applications and selection are managed by its affiliated partner universities and NGOs. Each partner sets its own programme, eligibility criteria, application route, deadline, admission fees, and decision process. Do not treat a copied generic “apply now” link as an official scholarship application.
How the Scholars Program works
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program supports highly talented, service-oriented young people, primarily from Africa, through partner institutions. Support can include financial, psychosocial, and academic elements, but the exact package depends on the partner. Admission to a partner university does not guarantee selection as a Mastercard Foundation Scholar.
How to apply through the official route
- Choose an affiliated institution and programme that match your academic goals.
- Open that institution’s official Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program page and read its current eligibility, admissions requirements, deadline, fee, and document instructions.
- Apply directly through the institution’s stated process, not through a generic social-media form or agent.
- Contact the institution directly for application-status questions; the Foundation does not make the decision for each partner.
Eligibility and deadline limits
The Foundation notes that partner requirements differ. Its general guidance lists an age limit of 29 or under for undergraduate applicants and 35 or under for master’s applicants, but the institution you choose controls its own eligibility details. Deadlines, admission fees, tests, scholarship coverage, and selection criteria must be verified from the particular partner’s live official page.
Official Mastercard Foundation links
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: official overview
- Official partner-institution application guidance
- Official guidance on becoming a Scholar
Fraud warning
The Mastercard Foundation says it does not solicit funding or request payments from individuals. Do not pay a Facebook group, agent, or contact claiming to sell access, an application form, a shortlist, a test, a visa, or a scholarship. Do not send passwords, OTPs, bank details, BVN, NIN, passport, or original documents outside the official partner institution’s verified process.
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