🎓 Fully Funded Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at Arizona State University (ASU) 2026

🎓 Fully Funded: Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at Arizona State University (ASU)  2026 Applications Now Open

Your gateway to a world-class graduate education at no cost.

If you are a young African professional with a passion for innovation, technology, and leadership, this is the opportunity you have been waiting for. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Arizona State University (ASU) has opened applications for its 2026 Innovation and Technology Scholarship, offering fully funded graduate certificate programs to ambitious Africans aged 18–33.

The deadline is March 8, 2026 . Here is everything you need to know.

What Is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a flagship initiative by the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with leading universities around the world. Its mission is simple but powerful: equip young African leaders with the knowledge, skills, and networks they need to drive sustainable economic and social development on the continent.

The partnership with Arizona State University one of the largest and most innovative research universities in the United States reflects a commitment to high-quality, flexible, and globally relevant education. Between 2024 and 2030, the program aims to support hundreds of young adults across Africa through education, training, and innovation-focused learning pathways.

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

This is a fully funded scholarship, meaning selected scholars will not pay a cent out of pocket for their studies. Benefits include:

• Full tuition coverage for an ASU graduate certificate program
• Flexible online learning format, allowing you to study from anywhere in Africa
• One-on-one coaching and mentorship support throughout the program
• A pathway to a fully funded online master's degree for scholars who successfully complete their certificate program.

This last point is particularly exciting the certificate is not just an end in itself. It is a launchpad. High-performing scholars may be considered for fully funded master's degree opportunities, making this one of the most transformative scholarships available to African youth today.

Who Is Eligible?

The scholarship is open to applicants who meet the following criteria:

• Are a citizen of an African country
• Are between 18 and 33 years old
• Hold (or will hold by July 2026) an undergraduate degree
• Have not started or completed any graduate degree
• Meet Arizona State University's admission requirements
• Demonstrate leadership potential, academic excellence, and community service
• Are committed to ethical leadership and community engagement
• Are able to reside in Rwanda for the duration of the program

Women, refugees, displaced persons, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The Mastercard Foundation is committed to equity and inclusion, and the program is designed to create pathways for those who face structural barriers to higher education.

Available Programs

Scholarships are offered for two part-time, fully online ASU Graduate Certificate programs:

1. Graduate Certificate in Foundations of Supply Chain Management

This program is ideal for professionals and aspiring leaders who want to build expertise in global supply chains a critical field as African economies integrate more deeply into global markets and develop their own industrial capacity.

2. Graduate Certificate in Global Management, Entrepreneurship and Innovation

This program is designed for those who aspire to build businesses, lead organizations, or drive innovation ecosystems. It blends global management principles with entrepreneurial thinking a perfect combination for Africa's next generation of change-makers.

Both programs are part-time and fully online, making them accessible to individuals who are already working, volunteering, or engaged in community development.

What Documents Will You Need?

Before you begin your application, prepare the following:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
• Undergraduate academic transcripts
• Bachelor's degree certificate (if already graduated)
• Motivation letter / personal statement
• At least one recommendation letter (academic or professional)
• Copy of passport or national ID
• Proof of English proficiency (only if required by ASU for your admission)
• application process: CLICK HERE TO APPLY

How to Apply

1. Visit the official online application portal (available on the ASU / Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program website)
2. Complete the scholarship application form with accurate academic and personal information
3. Ensure you meet ASU's admission requirements before submitting
4. Submit your application before March 8, 2026 at 23:59 GMT

Take time to craft a compelling motivation letter that clearly articulates your leadership story, your commitment to your community, and your vision for how this education will amplify your impact. The selection committee is looking for more than academic achievement they want to see purpose, passion, and a clear plan to give back.

Why You Should Apply

This scholarship is more than financial support. It is an investment in your future and in Africa's future.

Here is why it stands out:

• The programs are taught at ASU, consistently ranked among the world's top innovative universities
• The online format means zero relocation cost you study from home while remaining embedded in your community
• The mentorship component gives you direct access to experienced coaches who understand both global best practices and African development challenges
• The possibility of advancing to a fully funded master's degree makes this a long-term opportunity, not just a short-term credential
• You join a continental network of Mastercard Foundation scholars one of the most powerful alumni communities in Africa

Final Words

Opportunities like this do not come often. If you are a young African leader who is hungry to learn, grow, and contribute, the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at ASU could be the turning point in your journey.

Do not let the deadline pass you by.

 Application Deadline: March 8, 2026, at 23:59 GMT

Start gathering your documents today, write your motivation letter with intention, and take the step toward the future you have been building toward.

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