The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley offers a prestigious, fully funded opportunity by the name of the University of California MasterCard Scholarship for talented yet economically disadvantaged African students to pursue master’s degrees at one of the world’s leading universities. This program is part of a global network committed to using education as a catalyst for socio-economic transformation across Africa.
The University of California MasterCard Scholarship provides comprehensive financial, academic, and social support, covering tuition, accommodation, and other essential expenses for eligible master’s students. It aims to empower a new generation of ethical and entrepreneurial leaders who will contribute to Africa’s development by driving socio-economic progress in their communities and across the continent.
Scholars will receive access to leadership training, and entrepreneurship development, and connect with innovative ecosystems in the San Francisco Bay Area and Silicon Valley. This exposure ensures that students are well-prepared to lead transformative change upon returning to Africa.
The fully funded scholarship program also supports the Mastercard Foundation’s Young Africa Works strategy, which aims to create employment opportunities for 30 million young Africans by 2030, with a special focus on empowering young women.
In addition to financial support, scholars benefit from research opportunities, internships, and career development, fostering collaboration with African universities and institutions. By 2030, the program seeks to support over 200 master’s students, nurturing a generation of leaders committed to Africa’s socio-economic transformation.
Quick Overview of the University of California MasterCard Scholarship 2025
- Host Country: USA
- Host University: University of California, Berkeley
- Scholarship Levels: Master’s degree programs
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Eligibility: Applicants must be citizens of an African country, and demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to socio-economic transformation in Africa.
- Application Deadline: Refer to the graduate program deadlines for specific dates.
Perks of the University of California Fully Funded Scholarships
- Full tuition and fees
- Living expenses (accommodation, meals, transportation)
- Books and academic supplies
- Travel costs (flight tickets to and from the USA)
- Specialized training in leadership and entrepreneurship
- Access to the innovative ecosystems of the Bay Area and Silicon Valley
- High-quality education from one of the world’s leading universities
- Opportunities for research collaborations and professional development
- Academic and social support throughout the study period
- Guidance from faculty and program advisors
- Connect with a global network of professionals and scholars
- Participate in events and workshops with industry leaders
Benefits of the Master’s Scholarships for African Students
- Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills to contribute to Africa’s development.
- Enhance your career prospects with a degree from a prestigious university.
- Implement learned skills to drive positive change in your home country.
- Experience diverse cultures and perspectives, enriching personal growth.
- Join a community of Mastercard Foundation Scholars committed to making a difference.
Eligibility Criteria for the MasterCard Foundation Scholarships at the University of California
- Must be a citizen of an African country.
- Includes Africans who have been forcibly displaced or have refugee status within Africa.
- Demonstrated academic excellence required for admission to UC Berkeley.
- Must first be admitted to an eligible Master’s degree program at UC Berkeley.
- Demonstrated commitment to ethical and transformative leadership.
- Experienced significant barriers to accessing higher education (financial, social, or other).
- Intent to return to your home country after completing your studies.
- Desire to contribute to the socio-economic development of Africa.
- Proven record of giving back to your community through engagement beyond the classroom.
Eligible Master’s Degree Programs for the UC Berkeley MasterCard Scholarships
- Architecture (M.Arch) – Two-year program
- Art (MFA)
- Business Administration (MBA)
- Note: MBA applicants must secure additional funding from Haas Business School scholarships.
- City & Regional Planning (MCP)
- Development Practice (MDP)
- Education (MA)
- Energy & Resources (ERG)
- Environmental Science, Policy, and Management (MF, MS)
- College of Engineering (M.DevEng, M.Eng, MS)
- Various concentrations
- Master of Design (M.Des)
- Folklore (MA)
- Global Studies (MA)
- Information Management & Systems (MIMS)
- Journalism (MJ)
- Note: Only applicants who meet the Round 1 deadline can be considered.
- Law (LLM) – Traditional Program
- Public Health (MPH, MS, MA)
- Public Policy (MPP)
- Social Welfare (MSW)
- Translational Medicine (MTM)
Note: Contact the program if you are interested in other UC Berkeley programs not listed.
Important Dates for the UC Berkeley Scholarships for African Students
- Application Deadlines: Vary by Master’s program; most deadlines fall between December 2024 and January 2025.
- Admission Application:
- Must apply to the chosen Master’s program by the specified deadline.
- Only applicants who apply in the first admission round are considered for the scholarship.
- Scholarship Application: After applying for admission, eligible candidates will be invited to apply for the scholarship.
How to Apply for the University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarships
- Review the list of eligible Master’s programs at UC Berkeley.
- Ensure the program aligns with your academic and career goals.
- Submit an application to your chosen Master’s program through the UC Berkeley Graduate Division.
- Adhere to all admission requirements and deadlines specific to the program.
- Application details can be found on the Graduate Division Admissions Website.
- Indicate your interest in being considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program during your program application.
- After reviewing your application, the scholarship program will contact eligible candidates to apply for the scholarship.
- Complete the scholarship application as instructed.
- Provide all required supporting documents and essays.
- The program may invite shortlisted candidates for interviews or additional assessments.
- If selected, you will receive an offer for both admission and the scholarship.
- Follow the instructions to accept the offer and prepare for enrollment.
Selection Process for the Masters’ Scholarships for Internation Students
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley selects applicants based on the following:
- Strong academic performance, with a focus on previous achievements and potential.
- Demonstrated leadership abilities and a commitment to transformative change.
- Applicants should express a clear intention to return to Africa after graduation to address pressing challenges in their communities.
- he program gives consideration to applicants who have faced significant socio-economic barriers to education.
Required Documents for the Leadership Development Scholarship
- Completed Graduate Application: Submitted through the UC Berkeley application portal.
- Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
- Standardized Test Scores: GRE or GMAT scores (if required by the program). English proficiency test scores (TOEFL or IELTS) for non-native English speakers.
- Letters of Recommendation: Typically three letters from academic or professional references.
- Statement of Purpose: Outline your academic interests and goals.
- Personal History Statement: Describe your background, challenges overcome, and commitment to your community.
- Resume/CV: Detailed curriculum vitae highlighting education, work experience, and extracurricular activities.
- Supplemental Materials: Additional documents as required by the specific Master’s program.
Note: Do not send resumes or transcripts directly to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program office.
For more details and to apply, visit the official Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley.
