The University of Edinburgh has announced applications for the 2026 MasterCard Foundation Scholarship Program, targeted at academically talented and socially committed students from Africa.
This fully funded opportunity provides recipients with tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and access to mentorship and leadership development programs. The scholarship enables students to pursue postgraduate studies across a wide range of disciplines including science, technology, and the humanities at one of the UK’s most prestigious institutions.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Host University: University of Edinburgh
- Funded By: MasterCard Foundation
- Study Level: Postgraduate (Master’s)
- Eligible Region: African Countries
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Master’s Scholarships
- Reward: Full Tuition | Monthly Stipend | Accommodation | Mentorship | Leadership Training
- Deadline: November 7, 2025 (5:00pm)
Scholarship Details
The MasterCard Foundation Scholarship at the University of Edinburgh is designed to support outstanding African students who demonstrate both academic excellence and a commitment to contributing to their home communities. In addition to financial support, the program provides scholars with access to mentorship, leadership training, workshops, and networking opportunities with peers and industry leaders.
This initiative focuses on developing scholars into agents of change who can tackle critical social, economic, and environmental challenges within Africa. The program emphasizes holistic education, ensuring students gain not only academic expertise but also leadership and practical skills needed to drive transformative development.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the University of Edinburgh MasterCard Scholarship 2026, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an African country.
- Hold an offer of admission for a postgraduate program at the University of Edinburgh.
- Demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.
- Show commitment to community development after graduation.
- Meet the English language proficiency requirements of the university.
- Provide evidence of financial need, which may be considered during the selection process.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants of the MasterCard Scholarship 2026 will receive:
- Full tuition coverage for the duration of study.
- Monthly stipend to cover living expenses.
- Accommodation support.
- Access to academic resources and world-class facilities.
- Mentorship and leadership development programs.
- Networking opportunities with scholars, alumni, and industry leaders.
- Exposure to diverse cultural experiences in the UK.
Selection Process
Applicants will be assessed based on:
- Strong academic record for postgraduate admission.
- Demonstrated leadership ability and community service experience.
- Alignment with scholarship themes, particularly climate justice.
- Potential impact on development within their home countries.
- Consideration of educational barriers previously faced.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents to apply:
- Completed Application Form (via the University of Edinburgh portal).
- Academic transcripts from previous studies.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Personal Statement outlining academic goals and community impact.
- Evidence of English language proficiency.
How to Apply
To apply for the University of Edinburgh MasterCard Scholarship 2026:
- Complete the online application form on the University of Edinburgh website.
- Gather and upload all required documents, including academic transcripts and recommendations.
- Write a personal statement addressing goals, leadership qualities, and intended community contributions.
- Ensure your application aligns with the scholarship’s core themes.
- Submit your completed application before the deadline.
- Await official notification on the outcome and next steps.
To begin your application for the University of Edinburgh MasterCard Scholarship 2026, click HERE
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