🇬🇧 Mastercard Foundation Offers Full Funding to Africans (Oxford Initiative Scholarship 2025)

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Oxford, in collaboration with the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx), provides an unparalleled opportunity for aspiring young African leaders to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree at one of the world’s most renowned universities.

This scholarship program is dedicated to supporting 400 African students who are driven to enhance Africa’s resilience in pandemic preparedness, recovery, and sustainable development. Aligned with both the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the program aims to empower future leaders who will drive Africa’s economic and social progress.

Benefits of the Africa Oxford Initiative Scholarship 2025

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides a robust benefits package to ensure scholars can focus fully on their academic and professional pursuits:

• Full tuition coverage for the entire one-year Master’s program.
• Living allowance at the UKRI doctoral stipend rate.
• Travel and visa support, including return airfare, visa fees, and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
• Settling-in allowance to help with the transition to life in the UK.
• Emergency support through the Thrive Fund.
• Leadership and Impact Program, fostering collaborative leadership skills for cross-sector solutions to Africa’s unique challenges.
• Ubuntu Period of Service: Following the Master’s program, scholars complete a 4-6 month placement with African organizations, applying their knowledge to impactful projects.
• AfOx Alumni Network: A lifelong network providing ongoing mentoring and collaboration opportunities for career advancement.

Eligibility Criteria for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Oxford

To qualify, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• African Nationality: Applicants must be residents of an African country and dedicated to advancing Africa’s development.
• Master’s Degree Application: Candidates must apply to an eligible taught Master’s program at Oxford by the respective program deadline.
• Academic Achievement: Applicants should demonstrate a record of academic excellence and high potential.
• Leadership Potential: Evidence of prior leadership experience and a commitment to community and African development.
• Alignment with AfOx Themes: Candidates should be committed to addressing challenges related to pandemic preparedness, food security, health, sustainable energy and water systems, governance, or entrepreneurship.
• Underrepresented Groups: Priority consideration is given to applicants from underrepresented backgrounds, including women, refugees, displaced persons, and individuals with disabilities.

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Application Process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Oxford

Applying for this prestigious scholarship involves the following steps:

1. Submit an Oxford Master’s Application: Prospective applicants must apply to a taught Master’s program at the University of Oxford through the graduate admissions portal by the specific course deadline. After submitting the Master’s application, candidates can apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship using this scholarship application link.
2. Selection Process: Eligible applicants are evaluated on academic excellence, leadership potential, alignment with AfOx values, and dedication to Africa’s advancement.
3. Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for virtual interviews from February to April 2025.
4. Final Selection: Successful candidates will be notified by July 2025, receiving an official offer and guidance on next steps.

Key Deadlines for the 2025 Oxford Master’s Applications

Applications for Oxford Master’s programs close on different dates based on the field of study:

• 15 November 2024: Select courses
• 3 December 2024: Medical Sciences and some other programs
• 7 January 2025: Humanities programs
• 8 January 2025: Mathematical, Physical, and Life Sciences programs
• 9 January 2025: Some Social Sciences programs
• 28 January 2025: Other Social Sciences programs
• 29 January 2025: Continuing Education, Law, and additional remaining courses

This fully funded program presents a rare chance for young African visionaries to gain world-class education while contributing to Africa’s transformation. Don’t miss this opportunity to shape your future and support Africa’s progress!

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