The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh is committed to reducing the educational disparity, especially for African students. It offers postgraduate online scholarships, encompassing full tuition fees and a modest study stipend to ensure students have reliable internet access, providing comprehensive support throughout their academic journey.
A distinguishing aspect of this scholarship is its tailored approach to part-time online study, enhancing accessibility for students managing academic pursuits alongside other commitments. This three-year commitment signifies the program’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of African leaders.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Academic Qualification: Applicants should be academically eligible for admission to a relevant degree program at the University of Edinburgh.
- Educational Barriers: Applicants must have encountered significant barriers to education, whether they are social, financial, personal, practical, or health-related.
- Graduation: Applicants must have completed their undergraduate program by September 2023, possessing a degree certificate and official final transcript.
- Residency: Applicants should be residents of a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Leadership and Service: Applicants are expected to have a track record of leadership and community service.
- Climate Commitment: Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to making a meaningful impact in addressing the climate crisis.
- Age: Applicants should be 35 years or younger as of September 1, 2024.
- Previous Postgraduate Degrees: Applicants should not have previously completed a postgraduate degree or be enrolled in another university while benefiting from the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship.
Online Programs Offered
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh provides a range of postgraduate online opportunities, including:
Online Master’s Programs
- International Development (Masters route only)
- Master’s Program in Global Food Security and Nutrition or Diploma in Global Food Security and Nutrition
- Global Challenges (Masters or Diploma)
- Carbon Management (Masters route only)
- One Health (Masters or Diploma)
- Circular Economy (Masters or Diploma)
- Master’s Program in Sustainable Lands and Cities or Diploma in Sustainable Lands and Cities
- Master’s Program in Social Justice and Community Action or Diploma in Social Justice and Community Action
Online Postgraduate Diplomas
These diplomas are more vocationally oriented and are suitable for individuals contemplating a potential career change.
Applicants with either an undergraduate or Master’s degree from a Sub-Saharan African university are equally eligible to apply (provided they will graduate from either degree by September 2023 and can submit their degree certificates and transcripts by December 7).
The scholarship supports two years of part-time online study for these specific programs.
Application Timeline for 2023/24
| October 23, 2023 (10 am UK time) | Applications open |
| December 1, 2023 (5 pm UK time) | Completion of registration for the scholarship application site, including eligibility assessment and declaration. |
| December 7, 2023 (5 pm UK time) | Application deadline |
| Early February 2024 | Online Distance Learners (ODL) Interview shortlisting commences, and all applicants will be notified of the outcomes. |
| Mid-to-late February 2024 | ODL interviews are conducted. |
| By mid-March | ODL Interview results will be announced |
| March – July 2024 | Support is provided throughout the admissions process. |
| September 2024 | Support is provided throughout the admissions processes. |
Selection Process
The application evaluation process is grounded in the following criteria:
- Academic qualifications meeting the University of Edinburgh’s admission requirements.
- A track record as a transformative leader and service within their community.
- The quality of the application aligns with the Scholars Program’s theme of climate justice.
- Prospective influence on the progress of the applicant’s home nation
- Applicants who have encountered significant barriers to education (social, financial, personal, practical, or health-related).
Method of Application
Applicants must meet the academic qualifications for admission to the University of Edinburgh. It is essential that applicants apply for this scholarship before applying to the university. Only applications submitted through the online application system are accepted for the Scholars Program.
For any additional information,
Application Deadline:
December 7, 2023 (5 pm UK time)
