The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, a transformative study in UK initiative, invites African students to pursue postgraduate programs at the University of Edinburgh, ranked #22 globally (QS World University Rankings 2025). Partnered with the Mastercard Foundation, this University of Edinburgh scholarships program fosters global change-makers through sustainability-focused Master’s and Postgraduate Diploma programs, including MSc Global Health Policy, MSc Sustainable Lands and Cities, MSc Circular Economy, and MSc Climate Change Finance for the September 2026 intake. Scholars engage in a transformative postgraduate journey, driving climate justice and sustainable development at a leading Scottish university.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship empowers scholars to contribute to innovative research at world-class facilities, such as the Edinburgh Climate Change Institute and Global Academy of Agriculture. Scholars collaborate with distinguished faculty on projects tackling climate resilience, health equity, circular economies, and sustainable urban development, with 50% of alumni leading policy initiatives or community projects in Sub-Saharan Africa post-graduation. Aligned with the Mastercard Foundation’s mission to advance inclusive education, the program nurtures a diverse community of 850+ scholars from Sub-Saharan Africa, fostering cross-cultural academic synergy since 2016.

The scholarship champions global leadership networks. Scholars join a prestigious Mastercard Foundation alumni network of over 30,000 leaders, connecting with peers, mentors, and global experts through climate leadership workshops, online coaching, and events like Edinburgh International Festival, Climate Action Summit, and African Scholars Forum. This inclusive framework supports diverse perspectives, with 70% of scholars being women or from underrepresented groups. Campus activities, such as Holyrood Park volunteering, Fringe Festival events, or sustainability hackathons, enrich the research-driven experience, with 60% forming global professional networks. Partnerships with African institutions like University of the Witwatersrand and Makerere University enhance cross-border research opportunities.

Studying in Edinburgh, scholars explore landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, or Royal Mile, immersing in UK cultural vibrancy. Events like Hogmanay, Edinburgh Book Festival, or Science Festival deepen engagement. Edinburgh’s Old College, Pollock Halls, and King’s Buildings campuses, with modern labs, libraries, and innovation hubs, support global academic excellence, with connectivity to London, Glasgow, and Copenhagen. Edinburgh’s vibrant, student-friendly environment (QS Best Student Cities 2025) complements postgraduate pursuits, ideal for Master’s and diploma studies.

Candidates must first apply for the scholarship, then for an approved postgraduate program at the University of Edinburgh, submitting an online application with a climate impact statement and academic records.  Scholars engage in sustainability-focused projects, shaping global solutions. Join a global cohort to champion climate innovation, embrace UK cultural diversity, and redefine academic horizons with the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship!

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program:

Host Country:

•UK

Host University:

•University of Edinburgh

Degree level:

•Postgraduate Degree

Number of Scholarships:

•21 master’s degree Scholarships

Field of Study:

•MSc Africa and International Development.
•MSc Environment and Development.
•MSc Global Health Policy.
•MSc Design Informatics.
•MA Design for Change.
•MSc Sustainable Energy Systems.
•MSc Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
•MSc Finance, Technology, and Policy.
•MSc Food Security.

Benefits of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program:

•Full tuition fees waiver.
•Expenses for accommodation will be covered.
•Maintenance will be provided.
•Students will be encouraged to participate in work-based placements and mentorship activities.

Eligibility Criteria of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program:

1. Candidates belonging from the Sub-Saharan Africa region can apply.

2. Candidates seeking a postgraduate degree can apply.

3. A candidate must be a bachelor’s degree holder no later than September.

4. The applicant must have community service and leadership experience.

5. An applicant must represent his economic and financial circumstances for pursuing education outside his home country.

6. The applicant should be able to qualify for admission academically in his degree of interest.

7. An applicant should not be enrolled in any other postgraduate degree on scholarship previously.

8. Applicants must pay a USD 39 registration fee.

Documents required for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program:

1. Recommendation letter (if available).

2. Certificate of student status/Certificate of Graduation of bachelor’s degree.

3. Academic transcript of bachelor’s program (if required).

4. Proof of Language proficiency (English)/ Medium of Instruction (English).

5. CV (if required).

6. Motivation letter/statement of purpose (if any).

7. Additional Documents for Special Circumstances.

8. Copy of Valid Passport (Photo and Information Page).

9. Passport Size Photocopy (Professional photo with White Background and size less than 2 MB).

10. University Admission Offer Letter (If Already Issued).

Scholarship Deadline:

• Registration deadline for 2025 has passed.

• The registration for 2026 is open with a tentative deadline in September 2025.

Note:
We initiate the application process for current year as well as in advance for the next academic year to maximize your chances of success.