On-campus Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh for 2025/2026 Academic Year

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh offers an exceptional opportunity for students from Sub-Saharan Africa to pursue postgraduate studies. The scholarships are available for both on-campus Master's programs and online postgraduate programs, including Master’s and Postgraduate Diplomas, for the 2025/26 academic year. This program is designed for students who have demonstrated strong academic and leadership potential but face significant barriers to accessing higher education.

In this guide, we will explore the details of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh, including eligibility criteria, benefits, fields of study, and the application process. Additionally, we will discuss the importance of leadership development and climate justice initiatives that are integral to the scholarship.

What is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global initiative aimed at empowering and educating young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa. The University of Edinburgh, as a partner institution, offers scholarships to students who show great potential to contribute positively to their communities. The program offers both on-campus and online postgraduate scholarships for students who want to pursue further education in diverse fields, including sustainable development, global challenges, and climate leadership.

The program does not only focus on academic excellence but also on nurturing leadership and service skills among Scholars. By supporting education for talented students from underprivileged backgrounds, the program seeks to develop future leaders capable of making an impact on key global challenges.

Key Details of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Edinburgh University

• Scholarship University: University of Edinburgh
• Scholarship Coverage: Fully funded (covers tuition, living costs, and other benefits)
• Study Levels: Postgraduate (Master’s and Postgraduate Diplomas)
• Eligibility: Students from Sub-Saharan Africa
• Application Opens: 1st October 2024
• Application Deadline: 8th November 2024

The scholarship program is divided into two main categories:

1. On-campus Postgraduate Scholarships (Master’s Programs)

Scholars who are awarded the on-campus scholarship will study at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. This opportunity is ideal for students who wish to immerse themselves in the university environment and participate in in-person learning experiences.

2. Online Postgraduate Scholarships (Master’s and Postgraduate Diplomas)

The online postgraduate scholarships allow students to pursue their studies remotely while continuing to work or stay within their local communities. Online learning is an excellent option for those who may not be able to relocate to Edinburgh due to personal, professional, or financial reasons. The online programs offer flexibility and provide qualifications equivalent to on-campus degrees.

Eligible Online Programs for 2025/26

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers scholarships for the following online degree programs:

• International Development (Master’s route only)
• Global Food Security and Nutrition (Master’s or Diploma)
• Global Challenges (Master’s or Diploma)
• Carbon Management (Master’s route only)
• One Health (Master’s or Diploma)
• Circular Economy (Master’s or Diploma)
• Sustainable Lands and Cities (Master’s or Diploma)
• Social Justice and Community Action (Master’s or Diploma)

Each of these programs is tailored to address pressing global issues, with a focus on sustainable development, social justice, and climate action. These courses aim to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle the challenges facing their communities and the world.

Eligibility Criteria for the Scholarship

To be considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens or residents of Sub-Saharan African countries or hold refugee status.
• Educational Qualifications: Applicants must have an undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK Second Class (Upper) Bachelor’s degree or higher. For online Postgraduate Diplomas, students with a Master’s degree may also apply.
• Barriers to Education: Candidates should have faced significant barriers to education, whether financial, social, personal, or health-related.
• Leadership Potential: Applicants must demonstrate a strong track record of leadership and service within their communities.
• Commitment to Climate Justice: A key element of the selection process is the applicant’s ambition to make a meaningful impact on climate justice and sustainable development.
• Age Limit: Candidates must be 35 years or younger as of 1st January 2025. Anyone born before 1990 will not be eligible.

Additional Eligibility for Online Programs

For those applying for an online Master’s degree, it is important to note that candidates who have already completed a postgraduate qualification (Master's or higher) are not eligible. However, applicants with an undergraduate or Master’s degree from a Sub-Saharan African university can apply for the Postgraduate Diploma.

Benefits of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is fully funded, offering the following benefits to selected students:

1. Tuition Fees

The scholarship covers the entire tuition cost for the chosen program, allowing Scholars to pursue their studies without financial burden.

2. Living Expenses

For on-campus Scholars, the program provides a living allowance to cover accommodation, meals, and daily expenses while studying in Edinburgh.

3. Health Insurance

On-campus Scholars are also provided with comprehensive health insurance to ensure their well-being throughout their time at the University of Edinburgh.

4. Travel and Relocation

The program covers the cost of travel to and from Edinburgh for on-campus Scholars, as well as a relocation allowance to assist with settling in.

5. Leadership Development

All Scholars, both on-campus and online, participate in the Climate Leadership Programme, which focuses on nurturing the next generation of climate leaders. This program offers mentoring, work-based placements, and practical skills development related to climate justice.

6. Networking and Career Opportunities

Scholars become part of a vibrant community of Mastercard Foundation Scholars, gaining access to mentorship, professional networks, and opportunities for leadership roles. The program encourages community service and gives students the chance to contribute positively to their home countries after graduation.

Climate Leadership Programme

A central feature of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is its focus on addressing the climate crisis. As part of the scholarship, students will participate in the Climate Leadership Programme, which is designed to help Scholars develop the skills and knowledge needed to become effective climate leaders.

Through the program, Scholars will learn about the social, economic, and political implications of climate change and how to design sustainable solutions that can be applied within their communities. By empowering future leaders to address climate justice, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program aims to make a significant contribution to global efforts to combat climate change.

Application Process

Step 1: Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Prospective Scholars must first apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program before applying for admission to the University of Edinburgh. The online application system for the 2025/26 academic year opens on 1st October 2024 and closes on 8th November 2024.

Step 2: Complete the Declaration and Eligibility Assessment

All applicants must complete the first stage of the application, known as the Declaration and Eligibility Assessment, by 31st October 2024. No new applications will be accepted after this deadline.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

After completing the first stage, eligible candidates can proceed to submit their full application before 8th November 2024. The application must include all necessary supporting documents, such as degree certificates, transcripts, and proof of English language proficiency.

Step 4: University Committees Review

From mid-November 2024 to January 2025, the University of Edinburgh's committees will review all submitted applications. The selection process is based on academic merit, leadership potential, and commitment to climate justice.

Step 5: Interviews

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an online interview between February and March 2025. The interviews are designed to assess the candidates’ suitability for the program and their motivation to contribute to climate leadership.

Step 6: Offer of Scholarship

Successful applicants will be notified by the end of March 2025 regarding the outcome of their scholarship application. Once an offer is made, Scholars will be guided through the admission process and supported in their preparations to begin their academic programs in September 2025.

For more details and apply, visit Edinburgh University Postgraduate Scholarship On-campus and Online. 

Selection Criteria

The selection process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is highly competitive. The following criteria will be considered when reviewing applications:

• Academic Merit: Candidates must meet the academic entry requirements for their chosen postgraduate program at the University of Edinburgh.
• Leadership Track Record: Applicants must demonstrate their role as transformative leaders in their communities.
• Commitment to Climate Justice: The program seeks applicants who are passionate about addressing climate justice and making a meaningful impact in their home countries.
• Overcoming Barriers: Special consideration is given to candidates who have overcome significant obstacles to access education, such as financial hardship, personal challenges, or social disadvantages.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the deadline for the 2025/26 scholarship application?

The deadline for the 2025/26 academic year application is 8th November 2024, 5:00 PM GMT.

2. Can I apply if I have already completed a postgraduate qualification?

For the online Master’s programs, candidates who have previously completed a postgraduate qualification are not eligible. However, for the Postgraduate Diplomas, candidates with either an undergraduate or Master’s degree can apply.

3. What is the age limit for the scholarship?

Applicants must be 35 years or younger at the start of the program (born on or after 1st January1990).

4. Does the scholarship cover living expenses?

Yes, for on-campus Scholars, the scholarship covers living expenses, including accommodation and meals. Online Scholars will receive support for their online learning expenses but not for living costs.

5. How can I apply for the program?

Applicants should apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program before applying for admission to the University of Edinburgh. Applications open on 1st October 2024.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh is an extraordinary opportunity for talented students from Sub-Saharan Africa to pursue postgraduate studies in fields that address global challenges. Whether through on-campus learning or online programs, the scholarship provides comprehensive support, enabling students to overcome barriers and focus on their education. The emphasis on climate justice and leadership development ensures that Scholars will leave with not only academic qualifications but also the skills and networks needed to make a significant impact in their communities and the world.

If you are passionate about education, leadership, and climate action, we encourage you to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh for the 2025/26 academic year.

Click Here to Apply From Edinburgh University's Official Application Page.