The application window is now open for the 2026/2027 cohort of the University of Edinburgh Mastercard Foundation On-campus Postgraduate Scholarships. This distinguished initiative seeks to identify and support outstanding young Africans who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements and leadership qualities. The program particularly values candidates who have surmounted significant obstacles in their educational journey and are eager to undertake their postgraduate studies on campus in Edinburgh.
Eligibility Criteria
Prospective applicants must fulfill the following requirements to be considered eligible:
- A strong academic record meeting the University of Edinburgh's admission standards for a suitable postgraduate degree program. Typically, applicants are expected to hold a qualification equivalent to a UK Second Class (Upper Division) Bachelor’s (Honours) degree or higher. Details regarding specific entry requirements can be reviewed Click here.
- Applicants should have encountered substantial barriers to education, which may include social, financial, personal, practical, or health-related challenges.
- Candidates must have completed their undergraduate studies and possess an official degree certificate along with a final transcript to upload as part of their application by the deadline of 21 November 2025.
- Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of African countries (including those from North Africa) or hold refugee status within the continent.
- A demonstrated history of leadership and community service is essential.
- Individuals should show either experience or a clear ambition to contribute significantly to tackling climate change.
- Applicants must be aged 35 years or younger in the year the program starts. For the 2026/27 academic year, this means applicants born on or after 1 January 1991. Those born in 1990 or earlier are not eligible.
- Applicants must not have previously completed any postgraduate degree and are not expected to enroll concurrently at another university while benefiting from this scholarship.
Specifics for Online Programs
- For the online Master’s program, applicants must not have a prior postgraduate degree nor be enrolled at another university.
- For the online Postgraduate Diploma, candidates may hold either an undergraduate or a Master’s degree from an African university, provided they will graduate by 21 November 2025. If the applicant has a Master’s degree, admissions will assess the undergraduate degree to confirm eligibility for the postgraduate diploma. The program will also verify the institution and graduation date through Master’s transcripts.
The program encourages applications from women, refugees and displaced individuals, as well as people living with disabilities.
Scholarship Benefits
The on-campus scholarship package is comprehensive and fully funded, covering:
- Full tuition fees approved by the university
- Accommodation expenses
- Travel costs
- A stipend to cover living expenses
- Provision of study materials
Additionally, scholars will engage in a dedicated climate leadership program designed to inspire and equip them to drive positive changes in their communities and countries. They will also participate in the Climate Enterprise School—an intensive, week-long training focused on sustainable entrepreneurship and innovation.
Support tailored to the needs of scholars with disabilities will be provided following individual assessments. Furthermore, the program offers transition assistance to facilitate scholars’ adjustment to university life and beyond.
Selection Process
The evaluation of applicants will be based on the following criteria:
- The academic excellence that qualifies the candidate for admission to the University of Edinburgh
- A proven track record of transformative leadership and community service
- The strength and relevance of the application, particularly in relation to the theme of climate justice
- The potential impact the candidate’s education and leadership could have on the development of their home country
- Evidence of overcoming significant educational barriers including social, financial, personal, practical, or health-related challenges
Further Information and Application
For comprehensive details and to submit your application, please Visit the Official Webpage of the University of Edinburgh Mastercard Foundation On-campus Postgraduate Scholarships.