Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026–2028 at Sciences Po, France – Fully Funded Master’s Opportunity for African Students

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026: Overview

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po offers fully funded opportunities for talented African students to pursue a two-year Master’s degree at one of Europe’s most prestigious universities — Sciences Po, France.
The program seeks students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, financial need, and a strong commitment to driving social and economic transformation in Africa.

Scholarship recipients receive full financial support covering tuition, living expenses, and other study-related costs throughout their two-year Master’s programme.

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026: Eligibility

To qualify for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, applicants must:

• Hold citizenship of an African country (students with dual nationality outside Africa are not eligible).

• Be under 35 years old at the start of the Master’s programme.

• Have completed or be enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree at one of Sciences Po’s partner institutions of reference or through a bridging programme organisation partnering with the Mastercard Foundation.

• Demonstrate genuine financial need (official income or tax documents are required).

• Show a commitment to transformative leadership and positive change in Africa, especially in areas like public policy, environment, and socio-economic development.

• Not already hold a Master’s degree.

Benefits

• Full Scholarship: Covers tuition fees, living allowance, housing, travel, and study materials.

• Duration: Two academic years (2026–2028).

• Support: Continuous mentorship, leadership development, and career guidance throughout the programme.

• Community: Scholars join a global network of Mastercard Foundation alumni across Africa and the diaspora.

Eligible Master’s Programmes

All two-year Master’s programmes at Sciences Po’s Graduate Schools are eligible, except:

• Dual degree programmes.

• One-year Master’s programmes.

Application Requirements

Applicants must prepare the following documents:

• A valid photo ID.

• Proof of income (e.g., tax returns, income statements, or scholarship certificates — bank statements not accepted).

• Proof of enrolment or completion at one of Sciences Po’s partner institutions of reference.

• All standard supporting documents are required for international graduate admission to Sciences Po.

• A motivation letter explaining how the programme aligns with their academic and professional goals.

🟡 Tip: Applicants are encouraged to express authentic experiences and avoid using AI-generated answers, as doing so can harm the application.

Selection Criteria

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is highly competitive. Selection is based on:

1. Academic Alignment – Fit between past studies, chosen Master’s programme, and future professional goals.

2. Critical Thinking and Vision – Ability to analyse major social, political, and economic issues facing Africa.

3. Leadership and Impact – Evidence of initiative, creativity, and commitment to social or entrepreneurial projects in Africa.

4. Financial Need – Verified proof of limited financial resources.

5. Diversity and Inclusion – Special consideration for refugees, displaced persons, and persons with disabilities.

Application Process

1. Apply to Sciences Po: Submit your application for a Master’s programme via the Sciences Po online portal.

2. Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: Indicate your interest and upload required documents.

3. Wait for Admission and Scholarship Results: Admission and scholarship decisions are made separately.

Important Dates

• Application Platform Opens: Early October 2025

• Application Deadline (for both Master’s & Scholarship): 4 January 2026

• Sciences Po Admission Decisions:

  • Mid-December 2025

  • Mid-February 2026

  • Early April 2026

• Scholarship Decisions Released: Early May 2026

• Programme Begins: End of August 2026

Important Notes

• The scholarship offer is valid only for the year of selection (no deferrals allowed).

• Applicants not selected for the Mastercard Foundation Program may still pursue admission at Sciences Po with other funding options.

• Applicants are also encouraged to apply for the Émile Boutmy Scholarship to increase their chances of financial support.

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026–2028 at Sciences Po, France – Fully Funded Master’s Opportunity for African Students