Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge 2027/2028 – Funded Master’s for African Students

Last reviewed: September 28, 2026, against the official scholarship sources listed below.

Current status: Applications for the 2027/2028 academic year (entry in October 2027) are open. There is no separate scholarship form: you apply for your chosen course through the University of Cambridge and indicate that you want to be considered for the scholarship. Funding deadlines are set by course and are often earlier than the standard admissions deadline, so check yours as soon as you choose a course.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge enables talented young Africans to pursue a master’s degree while developing their leadership potential at one of the world’s leading universities.

The programme focuses particularly on themes of climate resilience and sustainability, although scholars can apply to a wide range of full-time one-year postgraduate courses at Cambridge (with some exclusions).

Scholarship Benefits

Full university tuition fees
Monthly maintenance allowance
Support to help scholars thrive academically and personally during their time in Cambridge
Access to a strong community of African scholars and leadership development opportunities

Eligibility

Be a citizen of an African country
Be resident in an African country (limited exceptions apply for temporary absence for study or work, and for those with refugee or internally displaced person status)
Apply for a full-time one-year postgraduate course at the University of Cambridge
Certain courses such as the MBA, Master of Corporate Law, Master of Finance and Master of Accountancy are excluded

The programme actively encourages applications from women, refugees, internally displaced people, and people with disabilities.

Application Process

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application is built into the University of Cambridge postgraduate application. You apply for your chosen course and select the scholarship funding option.

Browse the Postgraduate Study Course Directory and pick an eligible full-time, one-year master’s course.
Check that course’s entry requirements and its funding deadline. Funding deadlines are course-specific and are often in early December or early January.
Complete the online application, with transcripts, references and statements.
Indicate that you wish to be considered for funding and complete the scholarship statement.

Applicants must submit their own application. Because deadlines differ by course, start early.

Tips for Applicants

Choose your course carefully and ensure it aligns with your long-term goals and the programme’s focus areas where possible.
Prepare a strong personal statement that demonstrates both academic potential and leadership/commitment to impact in Africa.
Start the Cambridge application process early, as it requires multiple components including references and transcripts.

Official website: https://www.mastercardfoundation.fund.cam.ac.uk/

Disclaimer: Always check the official Cambridge Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program website for the latest eligibility rules, course exclusions, and application timelines.