University of Cambridge Mastercard Scholarship 2025/2026, United Kingdom

Located in the charming and historic city of Cambridge, the University of Cambridge is an esteemed global institution recognized for its exceptional academic reputation and commitment to scholarly excellence. This prestigious university provides a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, focusing on offering a transformative educational journey. By attracting some of the most brilliant minds from across the globe, Cambridge nurtures a vibrant academic community that emphasizes rigorous intellectual exploration and groundbreaking research.

Cambridge is not just an academic giant; it also serves as a lively and inclusive community. With a strong dedication to diversity, the university creates a welcoming atmosphere where students from different backgrounds come together to learn and collaborate. Whether immersing themselves in the sciences, humanities, or social sciences, students at the University of Cambridge join a rich tradition marked by academic excellence, innovation, and a collective drive to influence the future positively.

Scholarship Description:

• Host University: University of Cambridge;
• Host Country: United Kingdom;
• Study Level: Masters Level;
• Scholarship Type: Full Funding;
• Scholarship Worth: Check the details below;
• Eligible Countries: International Students;
• Subjects Available: All subjects;
• Application Deadline: January 7^th, 2025.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge is an initiative dedicated to supporting young African leaders with demonstrated academic potential and a commitment to social impact. Established to create transformative opportunities for students from Africa, this program focuses on building climate resilience and fostering sustainable futures. The scholarship is available for various master’s programs at Cambridge, allowing scholars to pursue studies in diverse fields. The scholarship encourages the development of scholars who will contribute to sustainable development and climate resilience initiatives upon their return to Africa, empowering them to drive positive changes within their communities and beyond.

The application process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for the 2025/2026 academic year is now open, with a final deadline of January 7, 2025. Aspiring candidates are urged to meet the specified deadlines, as the selection process is rigorous and highly competitive.

Scholarship Benefits:

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers a comprehensive scholarship package that covers various aspects of the student’s academic journey. Successful applicants will receive the following benefits:

1. Full Tuition Fees: The scholarship covers the entire tuition fee for the duration of the master’s program at the University of Cambridge, ensuring that scholars can focus entirely on their studies without financial burden.
2. Monthly Maintenance Allowance: Scholars receive a monthly stipend to cover essential living expenses, such as housing, meals, and personal expenses, while studying at Cambridge.
3. Laptop Provision: Each scholar is provided with a laptop for academic use, which is an essential tool for research, assignments, and other coursework-related activities.
4. Additional Support:
   • Visa Fees and International Health Surcharge: The scholarship covers visa application costs and the mandatory International Health Surcharge, ensuring smooth travel and healthcare access during the study period.
   • Travel Expenses: Round-trip airfare is provided, covering travel costs from the scholar’s home country to Cambridge and back upon the completion of the program.
   • Support Services: Scholars are provided with additional support and resources to ensure a successful transition to Cambridge, including mentorship, career guidance, and opportunities for networking.

This scholarship goes beyond financial support, offering students an invaluable experience that combines world-class education with opportunities to develop leadership skills and build networks with professionals and organizations dedicated to advancing sustainable development in Africa.

Eligibility Requirements:

To be eligible for the University of Cambridge Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, applicants must meet specific criteria:

1. Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of an African country, providing an opportunity for African students who exhibit leadership potential and a dedication to impacting their communities positively.
2. Residency: Candidates should currently reside in an African country, with exceptions made for those who are temporarily studying or working abroad, or those with refugee or displaced status. This requirement ensures that scholars have strong ties to the continent and are motivated to contribute to their home countries.
3. Academic Program: The scholarship is open for master’s programs that last up to one year at the University of Cambridge. Applicants must apply to an eligible program that aligns with their academic and career goals.
4. Academic Standards: Applicants must meet the rigorous academic standards set for their chosen program at Cambridge. This includes achieving the necessary academic qualifications and demonstrating a strong background in the relevant field of study.
5. Commitment to Sustainable Development: Applicants are expected to show a commitment to promoting climate resilience and sustainable futures for Africa. This can be demonstrated through past work, academic projects, or a clear vision for how their studies will contribute to these areas.

Application Process:

Applying for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at the University of Cambridge involves a multi-step process to ensure that only the most dedicated and qualified candidates are selected. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the application process:

1. Submit Application to Cambridge:
   • Begin by applying for admission to the University of Cambridge through the university’s course directory.
   • Each master’s program has a specific application deadline for funding eligibility, which is either December 5, 2024, or January 7, 2025. Applicants should ensure that they apply before the relevant deadline to be considered for the scholarship.
2. Include a Supplementary Statement:
   • As part of the application, candidates must submit a supplementary statement detailing their commitment to promoting climate resilience and sustainable development in Africa. This statement allows applicants to demonstrate their vision, goals, and potential impact on their communities.
3. Application Fee Waiver:
   • The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers an application fee waiver for eligible candidates. Applicants who meet the academic standards for their chosen program can request this waiver, making the application process more accessible.
4. Check Course-Specific Deadlines:
   • It is essential to submit the application by the funding deadline for each specific course. For most courses, the funding deadline is December 5, 2024, while others have a cutoff on January 7, 2025. Applications submitted after these deadlines will not be considered, so timely submission is crucial.
5. Await Decision and Next Steps:
   • After submitting the application, shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further steps, including interviews or additional documentation. Successful candidates will be informed of their selection and provided with guidance on transitioning to Cambridge.

Official Website:

For more information, please visit the university’s official website: https://www.mastercardfoundation.fund.cam.ac.uk/