Applications are now open for the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley for 2025 cohort!
Founded in 1868, UC Berkeley is one of the world’s leading academic institutions and is ranked as the #1 public university in the U.S. and #9 globally by Times Higher Education.
Annually, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley will support approximately 28 master's degree students with a new cohort of 12-16 entering each year until 2028.
Since 2012, the Program has graduated 157 Scholars from 27 African countries (Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, eSwatini (Swaziland), Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe). Alumni include 71 with bachelors degrees and 86 with master's degrees in over 35 degree programs.
Let's discover this outstanding opportunity!
UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Overview
The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley is designed to provide talented yet economically disadvantaged students from Sub-Saharan Africa with the opportunity to pursue higher education at one of the world's leading universities. The program offers comprehensive financial, social, and academic support to ensure scholars can thrive in their studies and develop their leadership potential. With a focus on ethical leadership and entrepreneurship, the program aims to empower scholars to contribute to socio-economic transformation in their home countries and across the continent. Scholars receive full tuition coverage, mentorship, career services, and access to a global network of professionals and alumni, making this program a life-changing opportunity for the next generation of African leaders.
Scholarship Benefits of the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley
The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley offers an array of comprehensive benefits designed to support scholars throughout their academic journey and beyond. Here are the key benefits provided by the program:
1. Full Financial Support:
Tuition and Fees: Complete coverage of all tuition and related fees for the duration of the degree program.
Living Expenses: Stipends to cover housing, meals, and other living costs.
Books and Supplies: Financial assistance for textbooks, supplies, and academic materials.
2. Travel Expenses:
Transportation Costs: Up to $1,500 USD** in travel expenses to cover round-trip airfare and other necessary travel-related costs.
3. Comprehensive Support System:
Mentorship: Access to academic and professional mentors to guide scholars through their educational journey and career planning.
Leadership Training: Workshops and training sessions focused on developing leadership, entrepreneurship, and professional skills.
Career Services: Assistance with internships, job placement, and career counseling to enhance post-graduation employment prospects.
4. Health Insurance:
Medical Coverage: Health insurance to ensure scholars have access to necessary medical services during their time at UC Berkeley.
5. Community and Network:
Global Network: Membership in a global community of MasterCard Foundation Scholars, providing opportunities for collaboration, networking, and lifelong friendships.
Alumni Network: Continued support and connection with the MasterCard Foundation alumni network, fostering long-term professional relationships.
6. Academic and Social Support:
Advising and Counseling: Personalized academic advising and counseling services to help scholars navigate their studies and personal challenges.
Cultural and Social Activities: Opportunities to participate in cultural events, social gatherings, and community service activities, enriching the overall educational experience.
Eligible Study Programs
The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley supports a wide range of master's degree programs, Here are some of the eligible study programs:
Architecture (M.Arch)
Art (MFA)
Business Administration (MBA)
City & Regional Planning (MCP)
Development Practice (MDP)
Education (MA)
Environmental Science
Engineering (M.Eng, MS)
Education (MA)
Industrial Engineering and Operations Research (MS)
Eligibility Criteria
The main eligibility criteria are:
Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of Sub-Saharan African countries, including refugees and displaced individuals within the continent. Dual citizens, asylees, refugees or permanent residents in the US, Canada, UK, or EU are not eligible.
Academic Excellence: Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and be admitted to an eligible master's degree program at UC Berkeley.
Financial Need: The scholarship is designed for those who face significant barriers to accessing higher education due to financial constraints.
Leadership Potential: Applicants should exhibit strong leadership qualities and a commitment to developing the skills and mindsets associated with transformative leadership.
Commitment to Community: Scholars are expected to have a demonstrated commitment to giving back to their communities, countries, or the continent.
Intention to Return: Applicants must express the desire and intention to return to their home country after completing their studies and post-graduation training.
Application Procedure
1. Admission to UC Berkeley: Master's degree program prospective applicants must first apply to the University through the regular admissions process before they can be nominated for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Make sure to apply to one of the eligible masters programs mentioned in this webpage
2. Scholarship Application: After the graduate degree program admissions process is underway, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley will invite prospective candidates to apply for the Scholarship.
🕵🏻ℹ️🗓️Deadlines and Requirements
Graduate application deadlines vary by program. You must visit the Graduate Division Admissions Website for up to date info on:
🌐ℹ️ For further information, visit the official website of MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley by clicking button below.
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