Apply Now: Mastercard Foundation–ASU Innovation & Technology Fully Funded Scholarships 2026
Arizona State University (ASU), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is entering an exciting new chapter with Phase III: Innovation and Technology of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Building on successful earlier phases, this initiative aims to invest in Africa’s future by preparing the next generation of transformative leaders in tech and sustainable innovation.
A Vision for Transformative Leadership Across Africa
Launched between 2024 and 2030, Phase III of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is set to benefit 700 young Africans. The program offers multiple learning pathways—including in-person and online degrees, English-language courses in collaboration with African institutions, and professional certificates in areas like supply chain and global management. The goal: equip African youth with advanced technological, entrepreneurial, and leadership skills to thrive in the modern global landscape.
Innovating and Leading: The 2026 Scholarship Cohort
For the 2026/2027 cycle, the Innovation and Technology Scholarship offers 30 fully funded master’s opportunities to young African professionals. Preference is given to those committed to societal development, ethical leadership, and innovation.
Graduate programs available include:
- MS in Global Technology and Development
- MS in Information Technology
- MS in User Experience
- MS in Computer Science
- MS in Data Science, Analytics & Engineering
- MS in Robotics and Autonomous Systems
- MS in Clean Energy Systems
- MS in Civil, Environmental & Sustainable Engineering
- MS in Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use
- MS in Human Systems Engineering – Intelligent Systems
What the Scholarship Covers
Selected scholars benefit from comprehensive support, covering:
- Full tuition and fees
- On-campus housing and books
- Medical expenses, visa costs, and airfare
- Leadership development, mentorship, and networking opportunities
- A two-month internship between the first and second academic years
In addition to academic support, scholars become part of a vibrant community that participates in leadership curricula and can engage in on-campus opportunities such as part-time work with the Baobab Platform team.
Who Should Apply?
- Citizens of African countries with demonstrated commitment to ethical leadership and community service.
- Aged 18 to 33 by the application deadline.
- Must hold an undergraduate degree awarded by July/August 2026—no prior graduate degree.
- Candidates must qualify for admission to their desired program at ASU, including English proficiency.
- Willingness to reside in Phoenix, Arizona, for the full two-year duration.
ALSO READ: Now Open: Fully Funded Commonwealth Shared Scholarships 2025 For International Students
Application Details & Deadline
- Deadline: Sunday, 14 September 2025, 23:59 GMT
- Interested applicants must first apply for the scholarship; if shortlisted, they will then proceed with formal admission to ASU.
- Required documents typically include a CV, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of motivation/leadership potential.
Why It Matters
This initiative is more than financial support—it’s a leadership accelerator. Scholars gain academic strength, professional experience, and mentorship while developing the capacity to drive innovation in Africa. The program nurtures the vision of leaders equipped to confront climate challenges, spearhead technological progress, and strengthen sustainable development across the continent.
Previous Program Success
Phase I granted full undergraduate scholarships to 120 African students, while Phase II introduced a “3+1+1” model—enabling students from Ghanaian universities to complete accelerated master’s degrees at ASU. Those earlier phases already shaped hundreds of empowered leaders; Phase III builds on this legacy with a tech-driven focus.
ALSO READ: Yale Peace Fellowship 2026: Fully Funded Leadership Program In The United States
Summary Table
| Component | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Focus | Master’s in tech & innovation at ASU |
| Number of Scholars | 30 for 2026/27 academic year |
| Coverage | Full tuition, living, medical, visa, airfare |
| Internship Component | 2-month placement between Year 1 and Year 2 |
| Eligibility | African citizen, aged 18–33, UG degree by Aug 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 14 September 2025, 23:59 GMT |
| Program Duration | 2 years on-campus in Phoenix, Arizona |
ALSO READ: Scholarships Open: Fully Funded Tech Training & Internships With Adobe Digital Academy 2025
This phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU is a compelling opportunity for African talent with ambition, grit, and purpose. By providing holistic support—from tuition to leadership training—this scholarship aims to help shape the next wave of African innovators and changemakers.
APPLY ON OFFICIAL WEBSITE
For More Latest Opportunities Join Us:
