With over 6,700 applicants, the deadline for submissions varies depending on the specific program. The University of California, Berkeley has officially opened applications for the 2026/2027 cycle of the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program. This initiative represents a partnership between UC Berkeley and The Mastercard Foundation(link is external), uniting a global network of educational institutions and nonprofit organizations dedicated to harnessing education as a powerful tool for both social and economic progress.
The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program is designed to cultivate a dynamic group of young African leaders who embody ethics, entrepreneurship, and enthusiasm. These leaders are envisioned as agents of profound socio-economic change across Africa.
Eligibility Criteria
- African Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of an African country. This eligibility extends to Africans who have been forcibly displaced or hold refugee status within the African continent. However, individuals with dual citizenship or those who have asylee, refugee, or permanent resident status in countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, or the European Union are not eligible to apply.
- Academic Excellence: Prospective scholars must secure admission into a master's degree program at UC Berkeley before they can be considered for the scholarship. A strong academic record is a critical admission criterion at the university.
- Demonstrated Leadership Potential: The program specifically seeks candidates who show a commitment to cultivating the qualities and mindset necessary for transformative leadership. Such leadership involves ethically engaging others to inspire positive, lasting change.
- Overcoming Barriers to Education: This scholarship targets exceptionally talented individuals who have faced significant obstacles in accessing quality higher education. These challenges may be social, financial, personal, practical, or health-related.
- Community Commitment: Applicants should exhibit dedication to giving back to their communities, countries, or continent. The program values well-rounded individuals actively involved in pursuits beyond academics. These activities may directly relate to the applicant’s field of study or encompass broader social, economic, or political issues they are passionate about. Applicants are encouraged to highlight these achievements in both their UC Berkeley application and their later application to the Scholars Program.
- Intent to Return Home: A crucial aspect of the program is the scholar’s expressed intention to return to their home country after completing their studies and any post-graduation training, using their acquired skills to contribute to development at home.
Further Details and Application
For comprehensive information and to proceed with your application, please Visit the Official Webpage of the University of California Berkeley MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program. This resource offers detailed guidance on eligibility, application requirements, and deadlines.
