The University of California, Berkeley, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, offers the prestigious Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for the 2025-2026 academic year. This fully funded scholarship, providing up to $100,000 annually, supports talented African students pursuing graduate degrees, empowering them to become transformative leaders addressing social and economic challenges in Africa. UC Berkeley, a global leader in higher education, offers a world-class academic environment with cutting-edge facilities and a vibrant community of scholars.
Benefits of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program delivers an unparalleled financial package, valued at up to $100,000 per year, enabling recipients to focus on academic and professional growth. Key benefits include:
- Full Tuition Coverage: Comprehensive funding for graduate program tuition and Berkeley student fees, potentially saving over $50,000 annually.
- Accommodation and Living Expenses: Full coverage for housing, meals, and a generous monthly stipend, estimated at $30,000 per year.
- Travel and Visa Costs: Airfare, visa, and SEVIS fees fully funded, valued at up to $5,000.
- Cohort Signature Programs: Access to exclusive leadership development, mentorship, and networking opportunities to drive transformative change in Africa.
- Research and Internship Support: Funding for practical experiences, up to $15,000, to enhance career readiness.
This mouthwatering financial aid package, totaling up to $100,000 annually, ensures scholars can fully engage in UC Berkeley’s rigorous academic programs and contribute to global development.
Eligibility Criteria for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
To qualify for this high-value scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- African Citizenship: Open to students from Sub-Saharan African countries.
- Graduate Program Admission: Applicants must apply and be admitted to an eligible master’s degree program at UC Berkeley. Bachelor’s and doctoral programs are not eligible.
- Academic Excellence: Exceptional academic records demonstrating intellectual potential.
- Leadership Potential: Strong commitment to addressing social and economic challenges in Africa.
- Financial Need: Applicants must demonstrate significant economic hardship to qualify.
Admission to a UC Berkeley graduate program does not guarantee selection for this competitive, high-value scholarship.
How to Apply for the UC Berkeley Mastercard Scholarship
The application process for this transformative scholarship, worth up to $100,000 per year, is integrated with UC Berkeley’s graduate admissions process. Follow these steps:
- Choose an Eligible Program: Select a master’s degree program from the list of eligible programs at UC Berkeley.
- Apply to UC Berkeley: Submit a graduate program application through the UC Berkeley Graduate Division Admissions portal by the program’s deadline, typically between November 2025 and January 2026.
- Nomination for Scholarship: Eligible candidates will be considered for nomination by their graduate program for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. A separate scholarship application may be required.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Provide academic transcripts, recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, and evidence of financial need.
- Meet Deadlines: Submit applications by the first round of admissions deadlines, typically around March 1, 2026, as only first-round applicants are considered.
Why Choose UC Berkeley?
UC Berkeley is a global leader in academic excellence, innovative research, and diversity. Scholars in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, with its $100,000 annual funding, gain access to:
- World-Class Education: Study under leading faculty in disciplines like social sciences, practical sciences, and humanities.
- Global Network: Connect with a community of scholars and alumni dedicated to global change.
- Cutting-Edge Facilities: Utilize advanced research labs, libraries, and resources to support academic and professional goals.
- Leadership Development: Participate in programs designed to cultivate skills for addressing Africa’s challenges.
This high-value scholarship removes financial barriers, empowering scholars to make significant contributions to their communities.
Application Deadline
Application deadlines vary by graduate program but generally fall between November 2025 and March 1, 2026. Submit applications in the first admissions round to be considered for this life-changing $100,000 scholarship.
Additional Scholarship Opportunities at UC Berkeley
UC Berkeley offers other high-value financial aid options, such as the African Legal Impact Scholarship for students pursuing advanced legal education. Explore these opportunities through the UC Berkeley Financial Aid and Scholarships Office.
Contact Information
For more information, contact the UC Berkeley Graduate Division Admissions Office or consult with professional academic advisors to prepare a competitive application for this $100,000 scholarship opportunity.
