The University of Edinburgh, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, is offering fully funded online Master’s (3 years, part-time) and Postgraduate Diploma (2 years, part-time) scholarships to talented students living or working in Africa.
The program seeks exceptional young individuals with strong academic records, leadership potential, and a history of overcoming barriers to education. It is an opportunity for Africans passionate about advancing their education while making meaningful contributions to their communities to pursue online studies at one of the world’s leading universities.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: United Kingdom (UK)
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Master’s Scholarships | Diploma Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All African Countries
- Reward: Full Scholarship | Monthly Stipend | Laptop | In-person Gathering
- No IELTS Required
- Deadline: November 21, 2025
Scholarship Details
The Edinburgh Online Mastercard Scholarship is tailored for students who wish to study while continuing their work or remaining within their local communities. The program provides flexible online learning opportunities that allow scholars to gain advanced knowledge and global exposure without the need to relocate. It supports both Master’s and Postgraduate Diploma students in developing specialized expertise and leadership capacity.
The initiative also emphasizes inclusion, welcoming applicants from diverse backgrounds, especially women, people with disabilities, and those from refugee or displaced populations. It aligns with the Mastercard Foundation’s mission to develop transformative leaders who contribute to Africa’s development, particularly in tackling climate-related challenges.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the University of Edinburgh Global Mastercard Online Scholarship, applicants must:
- Qualify academically for admission to a relevant University of Edinburgh degree program.
- Hold at least a UK Second Class Upper (2:1) Bachelor’s (Hons) degree or its equivalent.
- Have faced significant barriers to education (social, financial, personal, health-related, or otherwise).
- Have completed an undergraduate degree by September 2026 and possess a degree certificate and official transcript before applying.
- Be a resident, citizen, or hold refugee status in a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Demonstrate a proven record of leadership and community service.
- Show experience or ambition in making a meaningful impact in addressing the climate crisis.
- Be 35 years or younger as of September 1, 2026.
- Not have previously completed a postgraduate degree or be enrolled at another institution during the scholarship.
For the Online Master’s Program: Applicants must not have completed or be enrolled in another postgraduate degree.
For the Online Postgraduate Diploma: Applicants must have an undergraduate or Master’s degree from a Sub-Saharan African university (graduation confirmation required).
Note: The admissions team will verify all academic credentials, and preference will be given to female scholars, refugees, and persons with disabilities.
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the Edinburgh Global Mastercard Online Scholarship will enjoy:
- Full tuition coverage (scholars pay no fees)
- Academic stipend to support access to reliable internet and a laptop
- Participation in an in-person gathering during the program
- Inclusion in the Scholars Program Climate Leadership initiative, featuring regular online workshops, coaching, and mentorship
- Guidance and assistance from a dedicated Online Coordinator
- Additional support for scholars with disabilities, based on individual needs assessments
Program Duration
- Master’s Program: 3 years (part-time, online)
- Postgraduate Diploma: 2 years (part-time, online)
How to Apply
To apply for the Edinburgh Online Mastercard Scholarship 2026:
- Begin by applying for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh.
- Choose between the Online Master’s (3 years) or Postgraduate Diploma (2 years) option.
- If you already have admission to an eligible degree program, indicate this in your scholarship application.
- Complete and submit your online application with all required documents before the deadline.
- For inquiries, contact: [email protected]
Application Opens: October 14, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. GMT
Application Closes: November 21, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. GMT
To begin the scholarship application process, click HERE
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