Study at Cambridge for Free: Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2025–2026
The University of Cambridge offers an incredible opportunity for talented young Africans through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. This fully funded scholarship allows students to pursue a master’s degree at one of the world’s most prestigious universities while developing leadership skills and a commitment to sustainable change in Africa.
More than just financial support, the program provides a transformative experience. By 2030, over 500 African students will have joined the program, representing diverse disciplines.
The scholarship actively promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, refugees, internally displaced persons, and people with disabilities.
For newcomers to studying in the UK, you can check out our guide on the Complete Step-by-Step Application Process for International Students Heading to the UK for helpful tips on navigating university applications.
About the Scholarship
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Cambridge empowers students to develop academic excellence, leadership potential, and social impact skills. Scholars gain mentorship, career guidance, and the chance to be part of a global network committed to sustainable change.
Who Can Apply for the Scholarship?
To qualify for this scholarship, applicants must meet several key criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be from an African country, whether living there permanently or temporarily abroad for study or work.
- Education: You should already hold a bachelor’s degree that meets the academic requirements for your chosen course.
- Academic Excellence: Depending on the program, you’ll need the equivalent of either a UK upper second-class (2:1) or first-class honours degree.
- Eligible Courses: You can apply for any full-time master’s program except:
- Accountancy (MAcc)
- Business Administration (MBA)
- Corporate Law (MCL)
- Finance (MFin)
- Commitment to Africa: Applicants must show a strong dedication to community development, sustainability, and climate resilience.
The program also strongly encourages women, refugees, people with disabilities, and internally displaced persons to apply.
What the Scholarship Covers
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship is fully funded, meaning it covers every major cost associated with studying at Cambridge:
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation and living expenses
- Visa and travel costs
- A stipend for personal expenses
- Leadership and career development opportunities
Additionally, scholars gain access to Cambridge’s rich academic environment and join a lifelong network of Mastercard Foundation alumni making a difference across Africa.
How to Apply for the Scholarship
Applying for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at Cambridge involves several steps. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
1. Choose Your Course
Start by visiting the Cambridge Postgraduate Course Directory to confirm your program’s requirements, deadlines, and supporting documents.
2. Check Entry Requirements
Use the international qualifications checker to confirm that your degree meets Cambridge’s academic standards.
3. Request a Fee Waiver (if needed)
If you’re not eligible for the automatic university fee waiver, you can apply for one through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Fee waiver requests are due by 15 November.
4. Apply for Funding
While filling out your course application, choose to “opt in for funding” and select the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
You’ll then complete a scholarship statement covering:
- Your education and career background
- Leadership potential
- How this scholarship supports your goals
- Your plans for contributing to Africa’s sustainable future
5. Submit Your Application
Applications must be submitted by your course’s funding deadline (usually in December or January). Remember, funding deadlines are earlier than standard admission deadlines.
6. Department Review
Your academic department will review applications, and shortlisted candidates may be interviewed between December and February.
7. Final Selection
The Mastercard Foundation team will review offers and send final decisions around March or April. Successful applicants must submit all final documents — including proof of English proficiency — by 31 July.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Level | Master’s (Full-Time) |
| Eligible Applicants | Citizens of African countries |
| Funding Type | Fully funded |
| Deadline for Fee Waiver | 15 November |
| Application Deadline | Course funding deadline (Dec/Jan) |
| Announcement of Results | March–April |
| Cohort Goal | 500 scholars by 2030 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at Cambridge?
Only citizens of African countries who hold a bachelor’s degree and meet the Cambridge course requirements are eligible.
2. Is the scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition, travel, accommodation, and living expenses.
3. Can I apply for more than one course?
Yes, but you must submit a separate application for each course, along with funding requests.
4. What is the application deadline?
Deadlines depend on your course but usually fall between early December and January. Fee waiver requests close on 15 November.
5. Do I need IELTS before applying?
No. You can apply without IELTS and submit results later if offered admission. The program even assists with test preparation and costs.
Final Thoughts
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge is more than a scholarship — it’s a platform for African innovation, collaboration, and leadership.
If you are passionate about solving real-world challenges and want to study at one of the most prestigious universities in the world, this could be your path forward.
