The MasterCard Foundation has partnered with Michigan State University to provide full tuition scholarships to undergraduate and Master’s degree students from sub-Saharan Africa.
Scholarship recipients are chosen from a pool of students who have demonstrated academic talent, are economically disadvantaged, and have a personal commitment to serve their countries or regions of origin. Through leadership and career training, financial, academic, social, and post-graduation support, The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at MSU ensures that Scholars are equipped with the academic and professional skills and competencies needed to make significant contributions to economic growth and social development in their respective countries of origin.
Eligibility
The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program is open to residents and citizens of sub-Saharan African countries. Students who are already enrolled in degree programs in Africa or elsewhere are not eligible for the program.
Who is Eligible
The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at MSU targets students living in sub-Saharan Africa who are economically disadvantaged (ranking in the lower 40 percent in their origin country based on family economic background and income).
Applicants must live on the continent; the only exception is for applicants who are studying outside Africa on a full scholarship and who qualify on the basis of economic disadvantage. To apply, students must be either:
- First-time freshmen who have not yet started a bachelor's degree (including those who have done a "gap year" after high school).
- New master's scholars who have not yet started a master's degree program. Master's programs must be 2-year programs and begin in the fall semester (August).
Doctoral students, transfer students, and students with dual citizenship in the U.S. and a sub-Saharan nation are not eligible to apply.
Scholars pursuing online degree programs are not eligible for the scholarship.
Scholar Expectations
Students who are accepted to the program demonstrate the following qualities:
- Strong academic performance to date in secondary school, suggesting continued academic success as an undergraduate student.
- Demonstrated interest and capacity for serving others through engagement in volunteer activities in school and/or community.
- Leadership potential.
- Ability to cope with change, and interest in other countries and cultures.
- Significant financial need and/or from lowest income bracket in country of origin.
- Commitment to return to serve home country or region in ways that enhance economic growth and social development.
Financial Support
The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at MSU targets students living in sub-Saharan Africa who are economically disadvantaged (ranking in the lower 40 percent in their origin country based on family economic background and income).
Admission Fees
Advanced Enrollment Deposit
If you are accepted as a MasterCard Foundation Scholar, you are not required to submit the $250 Advanced Enrollment Deposit (AED). The MasterCard scholarship will cover this fee for those accepted to the Program. Selected scholars will be directed to take steps to secure their F-1 Visa.
Financial Information
MasterCard Foundation Scholar candidates are not required to submit financial information, including an Affidavit of Support, Statement of Financial Proof, or supporting bank statement. The only financial documentation required is contained in the MSU MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program application.
Expenses Covered by the Program
The MasterCard Foundation Scholarship provides comprehensive support for the completion of a bachelor's or master's degree. We cover:
- Travel costs
- Visa and SEVIS fees
- Tuition and other MSU fees
- Housing, food, and living expenses
- Health insurance
Program Scholars are also provided with a laptop and backpack.
The Program does not provide support for dependents of Scholars.
For further scholarship details and application please visit the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at Michigan State University website
