Applications are now open for the 2027/28 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge, offering talented young Africans the opportunity to pursue a fully funded one-year master’s degree while developing their leadership skills and contributing to sustainable development across Africa.

The programme is centred on climate resilience and sustainability and is designed for young people who have demonstrated academic ability, leadership potential and a commitment to creating positive change in their communities and across the continent.

About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge supports talented African students who may otherwise face barriers to accessing world-class postgraduate education.

Selected Scholars receive financial support intended to cover the costs required to thrive at Cambridge, including full tuition fees and a monthly maintenance allowance.

Beyond financial assistance, the programme places emphasis on leadership development and preparing Scholars to use their education and experience to contribute to sustainable futures in Africa.

Available Master's Programmes

Eligible applicants can apply for any full-time one-year postgraduate master's programme at the University of Cambridge, provided the course meets the programme requirements.

The following programmes are excluded:

• Master of Accountancy (MAcc)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Corporate Law (MCL)
• Master of Finance (MFin)

Applicants are encouraged to review the academic requirements of their preferred course, as entry requirements differ between programmes. Some courses require the equivalent of a UK first-class honours degree, while others require an upper second-class degree.

Scholarship Benefits

Successful Mastercard Foundation Scholars will receive financial support designed to enable them to focus on their studies and leadership development.

The scholarship includes:

• Full tuition fees
• Monthly maintenance allowance
• Support intended to help Scholars thrive during their studies at the University of Cambridge
• Leadership development opportunities
• The opportunity to join a community of talented African Scholars and future leaders

Leadership and Impact

Academic excellence is only one part of the selection process. Applicants are expected to demonstrate how their education and leadership can contribute to positive change.

The scholarship application asks candidates to explain their career and educational background, leadership potential, how the scholarship will support their goals, and how they intend to contribute to sustainable futures in Africa.

This makes the programme particularly relevant to applicants already working or aspiring to work in areas connected to climate action, sustainability, environmental management, development, policy, innovation and other fields contributing to Africa's future.

Information Webinars

The programme is also hosting information webinars during the application period for prospective applicants who want to learn more about the scholarship and application process.

The announced sessions include:

• 22 September 2026 at 11:00 AM UK time
• 6 October 2026 at 11:00 AM UK time

Additional sessions may be announced during the application period.

Programme Details

Programme: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge
Intake: 2027/28
Study level: Master's degree
Duration: One year
Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom
Funding: Fully funded
Target group: Talented young Africans
Themes: Climate resilience and sustainability
Application status: Applications open

The programme provides an opportunity for African graduates to combine advanced academic training at one of the world's leading universities with leadership development and a long-term commitment to building more sustainable and resilient communities across Africa.