Mastercard Foundation Innovation and Technology Scholarship 2026 for African Students (Fully Funded)

Applications are now open for the 2026 Innovation and Technology Scholarship, a fully funded opportunity by the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with Arizona State University (ASU). The program is designed to support talented young Africans who want to earn a master’s degree from ASU Online while receiving hands-on guidance and in-person support at Kepler College in Rwanda.

Through this two-year scholarship, selected scholars will have their tuition, housing, mentorship, leadership training, and internship experiences fully covered. It’s a flexible learning journey that combines the best of online education with the structure, accountability, and community that comes from in-person engagement.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know, from the programs available and who can apply, to what the scholarship covers and how to submit a strong application before the deadline.

Mastercard Foundation Innovation and Technology Scholarship Overview

The Mastercard Foundation, in partnership with Arizona State University (ASU), is rolling out a new phase of its Innovation and Technology Scholars Program. Between 2025 and 2030, the initiative will support and train 160 young African professionals at the master’s level, helping them gain the skills and experience needed to lead in today’s digital and innovation-driven world.

For the 2026/2027 academic year, 40 fully funded scholarships are available. Each award covers full tuition, housing, and comprehensive support provided through Kepler College in Rwanda. Scholars will also take part in mentorship programs, leadership training, and a two-month summer intensive or internship between their first and second year.

What makes this program stand out is its hybrid learning model. Students earn their ASU degree online, while benefiting from in-person academic and community support at Kepler College in Kigali. This model offers the flexibility of online learning alongside the personal connection and guidance of a physical campus.

Beyond academics, the program is built on a strong sense of purpose. Each scholar is expected to use the knowledge and experience gained to make a meaningful impact back home,  contributing to innovation, leadership, and sustainable growth across Africa.

What the Scholarship Covers

This is a fully funded opportunity, designed to remove every financial barrier that might stand between you and your graduate studies. If selected, you’ll receive comprehensive support throughout your time in the program, including:

• Full tuition, books, and academic fees
• Housing and accommodation for the entire duration of the program
• Visa application and English test costs
• Travel to and from Kigali, Rwanda
• Medical coverage for essential health needs
• Mentorship, leadership workshops, and other enrichment events
• A summer internship or intensive experience between your first and second year
• Ongoing in-person support and wraparound services through Kepler College in Rwanda

These benefits extend through the full length of your master’s program, provided you maintain good academic standing and remain actively engaged in all scholarship activities.

Also Apply: University of Nottingham Developing Solutions Masters Scholarship 2026–2027

Who Is Eligible

Before you begin your application, take a moment to ensure you meet all the requirements. You must:

• Be a citizen of an African country
• Be between 18 and 33 years old on or before the application deadline
• Have completed your undergraduate degree by July 2026
• Not have started or completed another master’s program before July 2026
• Meet the academic and English proficiency standards required for your chosen ASU program
• Show a strong record of leadership, community involvement, and academic excellence, especially if your ambitions go beyond your current financial means
• Be willing and able to live in Kigali, Rwanda, for the in-person component of the program

The scholarship also places a strong emphasis on inclusion and equal opportunity. Women, refugees and displaced persons, and people with disabilities are highly encouraged to apply.

Available Master’s Programs

If selected for the scholarship, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue one of the following full-time master’s degrees offered through Arizona State University Online:

• MS Global Technology and Development
• MSE Sustainable Engineering
• MS Information Technology
• MS Business Analytics
• MEd Learning Design and Technologies

How to Apply

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process:

1. Begin with the scholarship application. Click on the link below to apply.
2. Select your preferred master’s program and complete the application form through the official scholarship portal.
3. If you have limited internet access, download the PDF version of the form instead. Fill it out and email it, along with your supporting documents (CV, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation).
4. Submit all required documents and your completed application form before the deadline. Late or incomplete submissions won’t be reviewed.
5. After the initial review, shortlisted applicants will be invited for a video or phone interview.
6. Final decisions will be announced by late April 2026.
7. Successful candidates will then receive guidance to complete admission to Arizona State University and officially join the program in Kigali, Rwanda, by July 2026.

Also Apply: Fully Funded FAO Internship Programme for Africa 2026

Application Deadline & Important Dates

• Application Deadline: Sunday, 2 November 2025, at 23:59 GMT
• Final Decisions Announced: Around April 2026
• Program Start Date: July 2026, in Kigali, Rwanda

Be sure to submit your application before the deadline and review every detail carefully. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Apply For The Mastercard Foundation Innovation and Technology Scholarship Here