Applications are now open for Arizona State University Mastercard Foundation Innovation and Technology Scholarships 2027/2028 for Young African Professionals (Fully Funded)

Application Deadline: September 27, 2026

About the Scholarships

Applications are now open for the 2027/2028 Arizona State University Mastercard Foundation Innovation and Technology Scholarships. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, in partnership with Arizona State University, is offering 30 graduate study opportunities for students admitted for the 2027–2028 academic year to pursue select master’s degree programs focused on technology and innovation. The scholarship supports a traditional, in-person, two-year graduate degree experience at ASU’s Tempe campus in Arizona, United States. The scholarship covers full tuition, on-campus housing, healthcare coverage, and comprehensive support throughout the graduate program. In addition to financial support, Mastercard Foundation Scholars participate in leadership development, mentorship, community engagement, professional development, and other enrichment opportunities. Through their academic and other experiences, participants are prepared to apply their knowledge, skills, and leadership to contribute to meaningful social and economic progress in their communities and beyond.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must have earned a bachelor’s degree by August 2027 from a recognized institution. Higher education diplomas, certificates, and other non-degree credentials are not equivalent to a bachelor’s degree
• Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic record, equivalent to a minimum 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Applicants must meet ASU’s English language proficiency requirements for graduate admission
• Applicants must be citizens of an African country
• Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 33 on or before the application deadline
• Applicants must demonstrate a record of leadership, service, and a commitment to creating positive change in their communities
• Applicants must not have previously enrolled in or completed a graduate or master’s degree program
• Applicants must not be enrolled in, or begin, another graduate or master’s degree program while applying for this scholarship
• Applicants must be able to relocate to and reside on ASU’s campus in Tempe, Arizona, USA, for the duration of the program

Scholarship Benefits

The scholarship will cover the following:

• Visa application processing costs
• English language proficiency test voucher, if required
• ASU graduate application fee waiver
• Airfare to and from Phoenix, Arizona
• Full tuition, required books, and student fees
• Medical support
• On-campus housing
• Leadership and signature programming

Application Procedure

ASU encourages applicants to submit completed online applications. To proceed to the online application, please click NEXT at the bottom of the page to begin.

Alternative Submission Method: If you have limited internet access, view and download the PDF version of the form (do not request edit access). To submit, email your completed application and required attachments (CV/Resume, Letter of Recommendation, and Transcripts) in PDF format to mastercardfdnscholars@asu.edu. However, if you can submit online, click NEXT to proceed to the online application.

Why This Scholarship Matters

The Arizona State University Mastercard Foundation Innovation and Technology Scholarships provide a transformative opportunity for young African professionals to pursue graduate studies at one of the United States’ leading universities for innovation. By combining full financial support with leadership development and mentorship, the program prepares scholars to become changemakers who will contribute to social and economic progress across Africa. For young African professionals with a strong academic record and a commitment to positive change, this scholarship offers:

• Full funding for a two-year master’s degree at ASU
• Comprehensive support including tuition, housing, healthcare, and travel
• Leadership development and mentorship opportunities
• A network of Mastercard Foundation Scholars across Africa and beyond
• Preparation to contribute meaningfully to communities and countries

Click here to apply

For More Information: Visit the Official Arizona State University Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Page