UC Berkeley Opens 2026–2027 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for Young African Leaders
UC Berkeley has officially opened applications for the 2026–2027 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, offering full financial and academic support to exceptional young Africans who have faced significant barriers to higher education. The program, one of the most impactful educational initiatives on the continent, aims to develop ethical, community-focused leaders ready to drive long-term change across Africa.
For more than a decade, the Mastercard Foundation has partnered with top global institutions like UC Berkeley to expand access to quality education. With over $1.2 billion committed and more than 40,000 young people supported worldwide, the Foundation continues to invest in Africa’s future through education, leadership training, and career development.
Building Leaders for Africa’s Future
At UC Berkeley, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program supports master’s degree students who have strong academic records, clear leadership potential, and a commitment to serving their home communities. The initiative forms part of the Foundation’s broader Young Africa Works strategy, which aims to help 30 million young Africans—especially young women—secure dignified and fulfilling work by 2030.
The program provides scholars with both financial and non-financial support that allows them to focus on academic success, leadership development, and community impact.
What the Scholarship Covers
Selected scholars receive a comprehensive financial package that includes:
- Round-trip travel to and from Berkeley
- Full tuition and UC Berkeley student fees
- Visa and SEVIS fees
- Health insurance
- Housing and meals
- Stipends for living expenses
- Access to exclusive leadership and entrepreneurship training programs
This all-inclusive support ensures that scholars can concentrate fully on their studies and community service projects.
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must meet several core requirements:
1. Citizenship
- Must be citizens of an African country
- Includes Africans with refugee or displaced status within Africa
- Not eligible: those with dual citizenship, permanent residency, or refugee/asylee status in the US, UK, Canada, or EU
2. Academic Readiness
- Candidates must gain admission to a UC Berkeley master’s program
- Strong academic performance and evidence of excellence are required
3. Leadership Potential
- Applicants must demonstrate ethical leadership, collaboration skills, and a history of positive community engagement
4. Proven Barriers to Education
- Candidates should have faced major social, financial, or personal obstacles limiting access to higher education
5. Commitment to Give Back
- Applicants must show a clear and sustained record of community service and social impact
6. Intention to Return Home
- Scholars are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies to contribute to local development
Application Timeline for the 2026–2027 Cycle
The application process is tied to UC Berkeley’s standard graduate admissions schedule:
September – Early January
- Submit UC Berkeley graduate application
- Deadlines vary by department; many fall in December
- Only applicants who submit Round 1 applications (before January) qualify for the Scholars Program
By November 15
- Candidates from African countries who complete basic application sections and list two referees become eligible for admission application fee waiver invitations
- Fee waiver decisions are issued before December 1
February
- Nominated applicants receive an invitation to complete the Mastercard Foundation supplemental application
March
- Shortlisted candidates undergo an online interview with the program team
Late March – Early April
- Final scholarship decisions are released
Applicants are encouraged to check their specific graduate program deadlines and follow instructions carefully via UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation graduate application process page.
Beyond the Degree: Career and Leadership Support
The Scholars Program is designed not just to prepare students for academic success but also to support their transition into meaningful employment. Scholars receive:
- Internship and early-career guidance
- One-on-one mentoring
- Peer learning within a supportive cohort
Many graduates go on to careers in public service, social entrepreneurship, research, and private-sector roles that help address Africa’s most urgent challenges.
Learn More
Full details and application instructions can be found on MCFSP at UC Berkeley
You may also like to read: CMU-Africa Opens 2026–2027 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for Talented African Students
