Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa 2026/2027

About the Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship initiative designed to develop the next generation of transformative African leaders in technology. Established in 2016, this highly selective program operates at Carnegie Mellon University Africa (CMU-Africa) in Kigali, Rwanda—one of the world’s premier engineering institutions.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa provides comprehensive financial, social, and academic support to talented young Africans whose potential exceeds their financial resources. As part of a global network of 33 Scholars Program partners, the program is built on the belief that education is a powerful catalyst for social and economic transformation across the continent.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa goes beyond traditional scholarship offerings by nurturing service-oriented leaders who are committed to driving positive change in their communities and across Africa.

Eligibility Requirements

Academic Program Eligibility

To qualify for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa, applicants must pursue one of the following Master of Science degree programs:

Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)
Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering (MS ECE)
Master of Science in Engineering Artificial Intelligence (MS EAI)

Candidate Requirements

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa specifically targets:

African students who face the highest social and economic barriers to educational opportunity
Individuals from underserved communities with limited access to quality higher education
Applicants with circumstances related to disability
Refugees and displaced persons

Key Selection Criteria

Successful candidates for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa must demonstrate:

Academic Excellence: Strong academic performance and genuine passion for learning, with the capability to successfully complete rigorous graduate-level coursework
Service Commitment: Proven dedication to community improvement and a track record of giving back
Leadership Potential: Demonstrated ability to become future role models, mentors, and change-makers who will transform their fields and communities

Benefits

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa offers comprehensive, fully funded support that extends from selection through to employment or further education:

Financial Support

Full tuition and fees coverage for your entire Master’s degree program
Health insurance throughout your studies
International and local travel expenses
Living stipend covering accommodation, meals, and basic personal expenses
Application preparation support to help you successfully apply to CMU-Africa
Orientation costs to ensure smooth integration into the program
Project and entrepreneurship funding for innovative initiatives

Leadership Development

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa provides:

Customized leadership training workshops and seminars
Access to student clubs and organizations for peer learning
Community service opportunities to practice servant leadership
Mentorship programs connecting you with established leaders and alumni

Career Preparation

One-on-one career coaching tailored to your professional goals
Internship and career fairs with leading technology companies
Networking opportunities with industry leaders across Africa and globally
Professional development workshops covering job search strategies, interview skills, and workplace competencies
Alumni network access to the global Mastercard Foundation Scholars community

Holistic Student Support

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa addresses your complete well-being through academic advising, personal counseling services, and continuous support systems designed to help you thrive throughout your academic journey.

Application Guidelines

Critical Deadline

Applications for the 2026/2027 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa close on December 15, 2025.

Important Prerequisites

To be considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa, you must first be admitted to one of CMU-Africa’s Master’s degree programs. The scholarship selection process begins after program admission.

Application Process Overview

The application for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa involves:

Submit your online application to CMU-Africa for your chosen Master’s program (MSIT, MS ECE, or MS EAI)
Complete required competency assessments as part of the CMU-Africa admission process
Indicate your interest in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program during your application
Await admission decision from CMU-Africa
Scholarship consideration begins automatically for admitted students who meet eligibility criteria

Required Documents

While specific document requirements for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa may vary, applicants typically need to prepare:

Academic Documents

Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
Bachelor’s degree certificate or proof of degree completion
Academic recommendation letters (typically 2-3 letters from professors or academic supervisors)

Personal Documents

Valid passport or national identification
Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting academic achievements, work experience, and community involvement
Personal statement/essay describing your background, educational goals, leadership experience, and commitment to serving your community
Proof of economic need or documentation of social barriers (if applicable)

Technical Requirements

Competency test results as required by CMU-Africa
English proficiency scores (TOEFL/IELTS) if applicable
GRE scores (if required by your chosen program)

Note: Always verify current document requirements on the official CMU-Africa website, as requirements may be updated.

Program Structure and Duration

Academic Structure

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa follows the academic structure of your chosen Master’s program:

Full-time Master’s degree: Typically 16-24 months depending on your specific program
Rigorous coursework: Combining theoretical foundations with practical applications
Research opportunities: Engaging in cutting-edge projects relevant to African technological challenges
Capstone projects: Developing solutions that address real-world problems

Program Components

Throughout the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa, you will:

Attend academic classes in your chosen field (IT, ECE, or EAI)
Participate in leadership development activities including workshops, seminars, and retreats
Engage in community service projects that embody the “give-back ethos”
Complete internships with technology companies and organizations across Africa
Attend career preparation sessions to ensure post-graduation success
Join scholar cohort activities fostering peer learning and collaboration

Post-Completion Support

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa extends beyond graduation, offering:

Transition support as you move into the workforce or pursue further education
Alumni network membership connecting you with scholars globally
Continued mentorship opportunities from program alumni and industry professionals

Why You Should Apply

Transform Your Future

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa offers unparalleled opportunities:

World-Class Education: Study at Carnegie Mellon University, consistently ranked among the world’s top institutions for computer science, engineering, and technology
Zero Financial Burden: Focus entirely on your studies without worrying about tuition, living expenses, or other costs
Holistic Development: Develop not just technical skills but also leadership capabilities, emotional intelligence, and professional competencies
Network for Life: Join a global community of over 40,000 Mastercard Foundation Scholars committed to transforming Africa

Make a Lasting Impact

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa prepares you to:

Drive technological innovation that addresses Africa’s most pressing challenges
Lead organizations and initiatives that create employment and economic opportunities
Mentor the next generation of African leaders and change-makers
Build solutions in artificial intelligence, information technology, and electrical engineering that serve African communities

Overcome Barriers

If financial constraints have been preventing you from pursuing graduate education, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa removes those barriers entirely. The program specifically seeks talented individuals who face economic and social challenges, ensuring that your potential—not your circumstances—determines your future.

How to Apply

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Research and Preparation (Now – November 2025)

Visit the official CMU-Africa website to explore the three Master’s programs
Determine which program (MSIT, MS ECE, or MS EAI) aligns with your career goals
Begin gathering required documents
Prepare for required competency assessments
Draft your personal statement highlighting your leadership potential and service commitment

Step 2: Submit CMU-Africa Application (By December 15, 2025)

Complete the online application for your chosen Master’s program
Submit all required academic documents and test scores
Indicate your interest in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa
Pay close attention to all application requirements

Step 3: Complete Competency Assessments

Take all required competency tests as instructed by CMU-Africa
Ensure scores are submitted before the deadline

Step 4: Await Admission Decision

CMU-Africa will review your application for program admission
Admitted students meeting eligibility criteria will automatically be considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa

Step 5: Scholarship Selection

The scholarship selection committee will evaluate eligible admitted students
Selected scholars will be notified and provided with detailed program information

Contact Information

For specific questions about the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa, contact:

Olga Gikundiro Buki
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Manager
Carnegie Mellon University Africa

For admission questions, visit the official CMU-Africa website or contact their admissions office.

Important Reminders

Don’t wait until the deadline: Start your application early to ensure all materials are submitted on time
Be authentic: Let your unique story, challenges, and aspirations shine through your application
Demonstrate service: Clearly articulate your commitment to giving back to your community
Show leadership: Provide concrete examples of how you’ve led initiatives or inspired others
Proofread carefully: Ensure your application is free of errors and presents you professionally

Take Action Today

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at CMU Africa represents a life-changing opportunity to develop the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to become a transformative leader in Africa’s technology sector. If you’re a talented African student ready to overcome barriers, pursue excellence, and serve your community, this fully funded scholarship could be your pathway to unlimited potential.

The deadline is December 15, 2025—start your application today and join the next generation of African change-makers!

Submit CMU-Africa Application

Complete Competency Assessments

About The Author

Henry Izuu

Henry Izuchukwu is a passionate business administrator who has dedicated his career to transforming lives through education and career development. With a deep commitment to youth empowerment across Africa, he connects aspiring students and young professionals with life-changing opportunities that help them achieve their dreams.

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