There is exciting news about schooling around the world! The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has a big goal: by 2030, they want to give 100,000 young leaders grants that will change their lives. Students from all over the world, but especially those in Africa, could use this to get a top-notch education, learn how to be leaders, and connect with others around the world.
A Global Movement for Education:
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has already changed the lives of more than 40,000 students since it began. It has been a leader in breaking down barriers and promoting inclusion, with 70% of professors being women. It is proud to have 20,206 graduates who are now working in companies, communities, and governments around the world.
With an investment of more than US$3 billion, the Foundation is growing like never before. By 2030, they want to give opportunities to 100,000 young people who are good at what they do.
What Makes This Scholarship Special?
It’s not just a way to get money; it’s a whole package for people who want to make a difference in the world. Scholars not only get all of their fees paid for, but they also get:
- Accommodation and living expenses
- Training to improve leadership Mentorship and job coaching
- Personal help and health insurance
- Connecting with schools and alumni around the world
- Chances to do jobs and work in the real world
Many people see it as a once-in-a-lifetime chance to study at top universities around the world, come back home with world-class skills, and lead change that changes everything.
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Expanding Across Africa and Beyond:
The program works with 26 of the best schools in the world right now, and in 2025, it added three more African powerhouses to its family:
- Pan-Atlantic University in Nigeria is giving out 650 grants over the next ten years.
- University of Global Health Equity in Rwanda is giving out 500 health grants for graduate students.
- Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Morocco focuses on giving young women more power in STEM fields and leadership.
This means that African students who are ready to make a difference will have more seats, more chances, and a bigger influence.
Benefits of Mastercard Scholarships:
- Full payments Coverage: All of the school fees and payments are paid for.
- Living Allowance: A monthly payment that can be used for transportation, food, and other daily costs.
- Free Accommodation: Free living is available on campus or through sponsorship.
- Travel Support: Pays for foreign students’ plane tickets, visa fees, and moving costs.
- Comprehensive Health Insurance: Full-coverage health insurance covers all of your medical, dental, and mental health needs.
- Learning Materials: Free books, computers, and other school supplies are available.
- Mentorship and Academic Guidance: Ongoing help with schoolwork, job, and personal issues.
- Leadership and Career Development: Learn how to be a leader, start your own business, and make a difference in your community.
- Internship & Networking Opportunities: Access to global partners, graduates, and work placements, as well as internship and networking opportunities.
- Alumni Community Access: You will be a part of the Mastercard Scholars Network for life, so you can continue to learn and work together.
- Transition-to-Work Support: Help with finding a job, starting your own business, or going to school again after graduation.
Who Can Apply?
The program is for bright young people who are having trouble with their social and economic lives. It focuses on:
- Girls and women
- People who have disabilities
- Youth refugees and displaced
It helps pay for school at the high school, college, and master’s levels (but not the PhD level), and applications are made directly through partner colleges.
Why This is a Big Deal?
There is more to this than just a grant. There is a movement to change the future of Africa and the world. The Mastercard Foundation wants to create a group of 100,000 strong leaders by 2030. These leaders will not only have degrees, but they will also have vision, resilience, and the drive to change history.
Now could be your chance to study abroad, make a difference in your community, and become part of a global alumni network that spans countries.
Final Word:
The race to give out 100,000 grants has begun. Are you going to be one of the new people who shape the world by 2030? This is the once-in-a-lifetime chance, so stay tuned, check out the partner colleges, and get your applications ready.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?
It’s a big grant program that helps young people, especially those from underrepresented and economically disadvantaged groups, get secondary, undergraduate, and master’s degrees.
What is the goal of “100,000 scholarships by 2030”?
By 2030, the Mastercard Foundation wants to help 100,000 young people get into college by giving them scholarships. This goal is twice as high as the original one of 50,000 students.
Which levels of study are covered?
The program gives grants to students in high school, college, and graduate school. At the moment, this school does not offer PhD or doctoral-level scholarships.
