Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley empowers talented young Africans to become impactful leaders through fully funded master's degrees and leadership training.

Why It Matters

This initiative is part of a global effort by the Mastercard Foundation’s Young Africa Works strategy, investing over USD $1.2 billion to support more than 40,000 scholars. It aims to equip driven individuals—especially young women, refugees, or those with disabilities—with the education and skills to drive socioeconomic transformation back home.mcfscholarsprogram.berkeley.edu+1

What It Offers

• Comprehensive financial support: Covers tuition, living costs, and access to San Francisco Bay’s vibrant entrepreneurial landscape.mcfscholarsprogram.berkeley.edu

• Leadership and innovation training: Scholars develop essential skills through mentorship and strategic exposure to Silicon Valley’s innovation ecosystem.mcfscholarsprogram.berkeley.edu+1

• Network-building opportunities: Collaboration with African universities, faculty seed grants, and an Alumni Impact Fund strengthen lasting ties and real-world impact.mcfscholarsprogram.berkeley.edu+1

Who’s Eligible?

• Must be a citizen of an African country, including displaced or refugee status holders residing in Africa (dual-residency in certain high-income countries may disqualify).mcfscholarsprogram.berkeley.edu

• Applicants should be academically strong, show leadership potential, have overcome barriers to education, and be committed to returning to their communities post-graduation.mcfscholarsprogram.berkeley.edu

Program Reach & Impact

• Since 2012, over 120 scholars from 27 African countries have been supported. Through 2030, the program aims to support 200+ master's students in fields like business, engineering, public health, and more.mcfscholarsprogram.berkeley.edu+1

• Streamlined application: First apply to a UC Berkeley master's program; finalists will then receive an invitation to the Scholars application process.