About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
Applications are now open for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Arizona State University (ASU) 2026, offering 30 graduate study opportunities for young African professionals interested in advancing their education in areas related to technology and innovation.
The programme is designed to support talented African professionals pursuing full-time, on-campus master’s degree programmes at Arizona State University in the United States.
Through graduate education, leadership development and professional networking, the opportunity aims to help emerging African professionals build the knowledge and expertise needed to contribute to technological advancement and development across Africa and beyond.
The application deadline is September 27, 2026, at 23:59 GMT.
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Arizona State University provides talented African students and young professionals with access to graduate education and opportunities for leadership development.
For the 2026 intake, the programme is offering 30 graduate study opportunities to eligible young African professionals.
Successful scholars will pursue full-time, on-campus master’s degrees at Arizona State University, with the available opportunities focused on fields connected to technology and innovation.
The programme is particularly relevant for applicants who want to develop advanced expertise and use their knowledge to address challenges affecting communities, industries and economies across Africa.
What the Graduate Scholarship Opportunity Offers
The programme provides selected scholars with the opportunity to pursue graduate-level study at Arizona State University while becoming part of an international academic and professional community.
A master’s degree focused on technology and innovation can help scholars develop specialised knowledge in areas that are increasingly important to economic growth, digital transformation and sustainable development.
Beyond academic study, scholars can also benefit from connections with other talented African professionals and participate in a broader community associated with the Mastercard Foundation's education and leadership initiatives.
Applicants should carefully review the official programme information and scholarship FAQs to understand the specific support provided, programme expectations and application requirements.
Who Should Consider Applying?
The opportunity is intended for young African professionals seeking to pursue full-time graduate study at Arizona State University.
Candidates should have a strong interest in technology, innovation and applying advanced knowledge to create positive change.
The programme may be particularly relevant to applicants who want to:
Pursue a master’s degree in a technology- or innovation-related field
Develop advanced academic and professional expertise
Gain international graduate study experience
Build networks with African professionals and emerging leaders
Apply technology and innovation to development challenges
Strengthen their capacity to contribute to Africa’s future
Prepare for careers in technology, research, entrepreneurship, development or related sectors
Because graduate programmes may have specific academic requirements, prospective applicants should carefully confirm the eligibility criteria for their intended programme before applying.
Study at Arizona State University
Arizona State University (ASU) is a major public research university in the United States with graduate programmes across a wide range of disciplines.
Through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, selected African scholars will have the opportunity to undertake full-time, on-campus master's study at ASU.
The programme's emphasis on technology and innovation is particularly relevant as fields such as digital technology, artificial intelligence, engineering, data, entrepreneurship and other emerging technologies continue to influence economies and workplaces.
For African professionals, advanced training in these areas can support careers in technology, research, entrepreneurship, public policy, development and other sectors where specialised expertise is increasingly valuable.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU 2026 is:
September 27, 2026, at 23:59 GMT
Applicants are strongly encouraged to begin preparing well before the deadline. Reviewing the requirements, gathering supporting documents and checking programme-specific eligibility in advance can help applicants avoid submitting incomplete applications.
Prospective applicants should also read the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program FAQs before applying to clarify questions concerning eligibility, the application process and programme expectations.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should complete the official online application for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Arizona State University before the stated deadline.
Before submitting an application, applicants should:
Review the scholarship requirements carefully.
Read the official programme FAQs.
Confirm that they meet the requirements of the relevant graduate programme.
Prepare the required academic and supporting documents.
Ensure that all information provided is accurate and complete.
Submit the application before September 27, 2026, at 23:59 GMT.
For programme-related questions, applicants can contact the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team at:
Why This Opportunity Matters
Access to advanced education and specialised skills can play an important role in supporting innovation, entrepreneurship and economic transformation.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU gives selected young African professionals an opportunity to pursue graduate-level education in technology and innovation while gaining experience in an international academic environment.
With 30 graduate study opportunities available for the 2026 intake, the programme is a competitive opportunity for African professionals who want to strengthen their expertise and prepare for careers and leadership in technology-driven sectors.
The knowledge, networks and professional experience gained during graduate study can also help scholars contribute to their organisations, communities and wider development priorities after completing their education.
Final Thoughts
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Arizona State University 2026 offers 30 graduate study opportunities for young African professionals interested in pursuing full-time, on-campus master's degrees related to technology and innovation.
Applicants should take time to understand the programme requirements, review the official FAQs, prepare their supporting documents and submit their applications before the deadline.
Key Details at a Glance
OpportunityMastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASUUniversityArizona State University (ASU)Study levelMaster's degreeStudy modeFull-time, on-campusTarget applicantsYoung African professionalsFocusTechnology and innovationNumber of opportunities30CountryUnited StatesDeadlineSeptember 27, 2026Closing time23:59 GMTContactmastercardfndscholars@asu.edu
Application deadline: September 27, 2026, at 23:59 GMT.
How to apply