University of California MasterCard Scholarship 2026

The University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program is a fully sponsored opportunity for future African leaders for the 2026-27 academic year. Hosted by the University of California, Berkeley, in partnership with The Mastercard Foundation, this program aims to develop ethical, entrepreneurial, and energetic young leaders committed to driving socio-economic transformation in Africa. It is part of a global network that believes education is a catalyst for social and economic advancement, having already invested over $1.2 billion to empower more than 40,000 young people.

This is a fully funded scholarship covering all major expenses including tuition fees, housing, daily living costs, travel costs, and health insurance. Scholars will study at UC Berkeley, one of the world's top universities, with access to great study programs and research opportunities. The program also provides leadership development and full assistance throughout the scholar's stay.

Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of an African nation, including displaced persons or those with refugee status in Africa. Individuals with dual citizenship, asylee, refugee, or permanent resident status in the US, Canada, UK, or EU are not eligible. Academic Level: Applicants must gain admission to an eligible master's degree program at UC Berkeley. The scholarship is not open to undergraduate or doctoral students at UC Berkeley. Academic Background: Must have graduated from an African university with an undergraduate degree. Must not already possess a postgraduate degree (master's or doctorate). Commitment: Must be dedicated to developing leadership skills, committed to ethical action, and fueling lasting positive change. Experience: Designed for exceptionally gifted individuals who have experienced major obstacles (social, financial, personal, practical, or health-related) to obtaining quality higher education. Future Plans: Applicants must plan to return to their home communities in Africa after completing their education and training to use their new skills and contacts for development. Previous Support: Must not have been previously supported by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

Official transcripts from all attended colleges or universities, showing coursework and grades. A brief history (CV/resume) of education, professional experience, skills, and accomplishments. An essay detailing educational and professional aims, reasons for interest in UC Berkeley, and how the selected program fits into goals. English proficiency test scores (TOEFL or IELTS) if not an English speaker. Personal Statement for Scholarship. Proof of major financial obstacles to pursuing higher education. African citizenship confirmatory documents. May be requested to clarify community activities, plans to remain in Africa, and how they aim to contribute to its development.

1. First, select an eligible master's degree program at UC Berkeley that aligns with your academic and career ambitions. 2. Submit the official UC Berkeley online graduate application form for your chosen program. 3. Gather and upload all the required documents for your graduate program application. 4. If you meet the scholarship's requirements and are accepted to an appropriate program, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley will invite you to apply for a standalone scholarship application. 5. Complete the specific Mastercard Foundation Scholarship application form.

Master's degree applicants must first apply to an eligible master's degree program before they can be nominated for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Only those who submit applications in the first round of a graduate program's admission process can be considered for the Scholars Program. The program recruits Mastercard Foundation Scholars through the fall of 2028. While this specific program at UC Berkeley is for master's students, other Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program partners may recruit undergraduates. Doctoral degrees are not eligible for this program.