Apply for the 2026 Mastercard Foundation-ASU Innovation & Tech Graduate Scholarship

If you’re a young African changemaker with a passion for technology and innovation, this is your moment. The Mastercard Foundation, in collaboration with Arizona State University (ASU), is offering a life-changing opportunity: a fully funded master’s scholarship for the 2026–2027 academic year. This program is designed to empower emerging leaders with the tools to drive sustainable development and digital transformation across Africa.

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Deadline to Apply: Sunday, September 14, 2025 at 23:59 GMT

Table of Contents

Why This Scholarship Is a Game Changer
Who Should Apply?
Eligible Master’s Programs
How to Apply
What Happens Next?
Final Notes

Why This Scholarship Is a Game Changer

Over the next five years (2025–2030), 120 African professionals will be selected to pursue full-time, on-campus master’s degrees at ASU. For the 2026 intake, 30 scholarships are available—and they’re not just generous, they’re comprehensive.

Here’s what you’ll get:

Full tuition for a two-year master’s program
Round-trip airfare to Phoenix, Arizona
Visa and English test fee coverage
On-campus housing and meals
Books, medical insurance, and program fees
Leadership training, mentorship, and networking events
A two-month internship between your first and second year
Part-time work opportunities on campus

This isn’t just financial aid—it’s a launchpad for your career and impact.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is open to citizens of African countries who meet the following criteria:

Aged 18–33 by the application deadline
Hold a bachelor’s degree by August 2026
Have not started or completed any other graduate degree
Demonstrate academic excellence and financial need
Show leadership experience and community involvement
Committed to ethical leadership and social impact
Able to live in Phoenix, Arizona for the full duration of the program
Meet ASU’s academic and English language requirements

Women, refugees, displaced persons, and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. ASU is committed to accessibility and inclusion for all students.

Eligible Master’s Programs

You can apply for any of the following full-time, on-campus graduate programs:

MS in Global Technology and Development
MS in Information Technology
MS in Human Systems Engineering – Intelligent Systems
MS in User Experience
MS in Computer Science
MS in Data Science, Analytics & Engineering
MS in Robotics and Autonomous Systems
MS in Civil, Environmental & Sustainable Engineering
MS in Clean Energy Systems
MS in Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use

Each program is designed to prepare you for leadership roles in high-impact sectors.

How to Apply

There are two ways to submit your application:

Option 1: Online Application If you have reliable internet access, apply online by click here

Option 2: Email Submission If internet access is limited, download the PDF application form. Complete it and email it along with your CV/resume, letter of recommendation, and transcripts to: mastercardfdnscholars@asu.edu

Important: Do not apply directly to ASU. Shortlisted candidates will be guided through the university admission process after initial selection.

What Happens Next?

Applications close on September 14, 2025 at 23:59 GMT
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews by video or phone
Final decisions will be made by February 2026
Selected scholars will begin their journey in Phoenix, Arizona in August 2026

Final Notes

Before applying, make sure you’ve read the full eligibility criteria and application guidance. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Admission to ASU does not guarantee a scholarship award.

Still have questions? Reach out to: mastercardfdnscholars@asu.edu

This is more than a scholarship—it’s a chance to shape the future of Africa through innovation and leadership. Ready to take the leap? Let’s get started.

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