2026 Mastercard Innovation and Technology Scholarship Application
The Mastercard Foundation, in collaboration with Arizona State University (ASU), is offering graduate-level scholarships aimed at preparing 120 young African leaders over a five-year period (2025–2030). This initiative supports students in pursuing a two-year, on-campus master’s program focused on innovation and technology.
The program is designed to respond to the fast-changing global digital economy by equipping African youth with the expertise and leadership capacity to drive technological advancement and sustainable solutions across the continent.
For the 2026/2027 academic year, 30 full scholarships are available. Each award will cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses for the full duration of study. Beyond financial support, Scholars will participate in leadership development, mentorship, and enrichment activities offered through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU.
During the academic year, Scholars may take up part-time on-campus positions either with the Baobab Platform team or within the broader ASU community. Between their first and second year, participants will also complete a two-month internship aligned with their program of study.
A core principle of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is that graduates return to their home countries to contribute their skills and knowledge toward social and economic transformation. Women, refugees, displaced persons, and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. ASU is committed to ensuring accessibility and inclusivity across all academic and support services.
Eligible Graduate Courses
Scholarships are available for the following full-time, on-campus master’s degrees:
• MS Global Technology and Development
• MS Information Technology
• MS Human Systems Engineering – Intelligent Systems
• MS User Experience
• MSC Computer Science
• MS Data Science Analytics & Engineering
• MS Robotics and Autonomous Systems
• MS Civil, Environmental & Sustainable Engineering
• MS Clean Energy Systems
• MS Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following conditions:
• Be academically qualified for admission into their chosen program, including proof of English language proficiency.
• Hold citizenship of an African country, with a demonstrated record of ethical leadership and active community engagement.
• Be 18–33 years old on or before the application deadline.
• Show evidence of leadership and service within their community.
• Demonstrate academic excellence and financial need.
• Possess an undergraduate degree awarded no later than August 2026.
• Must not have started or completed another master’s or graduate program prior to August 2026.
• Be willing and able to reside in Phoenix, Arizona for the full duration of the program.
Note: Incomplete or ineligible applications will not be considered.
Scholarship Benefits
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at ASU covers:
• Visa application fees
• English language testing costs
• Program application costs
• Round-trip airfare to Phoenix, Arizona
• Full tuition, books, and fees
• Health insurance and medical expenses
• On-campus housing
• Participation in leadership and enrichment programming
Awards are valid for the full duration of the recipient’s graduate program.
Application Timeline
• Application Deadline: Sunday, 14 September 2026, at 23:59 GMT
• Review & Shortlisting: Selected applicants will be invited for a virtual interview via phone or video call.
• Final Decisions: By late February 2026.
• Program Start: Successful candidates will relocate to Phoenix, Arizona, and begin classes in August 2026.
Important: Candidates must apply for the scholarship first. Only shortlisted applicants will be guided through the ASU admissions process. Admission to ASU alone does not guarantee a scholarship award.
Application Instructions
Applicants are required to carefully review the eligibility criteria and application guidance before submission. Late or incomplete applications will not be processed. Both ASU and the Mastercard Foundation reserve the right to modify program conditions, cancel incomplete applications, or make no awards.
Submission Options:
1. Online Application (Recommended): Click NEXT at the bottom of this page to begin the online application form.
2. Limited Internet Access: Download the PDF application form. Submit the completed form and all required documents (CV/Resume, Letter of Recommendation, Academic Transcripts) via email to mastercardfdnscholars@asu.edu.
For further details, consult the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page or email: mastercardfdnscholars@asu.edu.