African Leadership University (ALU) Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program 2026 – Fully Funded(Deadline: Ongoing)
Description
The
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at African Leadership University (ALU)
is now accepting applications for the Spring 2026 intake. This fully funded
opportunity is designed for young African changemakers who have the potential
to transform their communities but face financial barriers to higher education.
About the Scholarship
The
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program supports talented, driven, and socially
conscious youth from across Africa, with a strong focus on young women,
refugees, and persons with disabilities. This initiative provides not just
financial aid, but also leadership development, mentorship, and access to a
transformative education at ALU—one of Africa’s most forward-thinking
universities.
Through
its Young Africa Works strategy, the Mastercard Foundation aims to help 30
million African youth—primarily women—secure dignified and meaningful
employment by 2030. In partnership with the African Leadership Group, this
scholarship initiative brings that vision to life.
Why Study at African
Leadership University (ALU)?
ALU breaks away from traditional academic models by
offering a student-centered learning approach. Scholars work on solving
real-world problems, develop practical skills, and graduate with purpose-driven
mindsets.
Since its partnership with the Mastercard
Foundation, ALU has admitted 768 scholars from 32 African countries, with 68%
of them being women and 20% identified as refugees or displaced persons.
Impressively, 96% of ALU graduates report securing dignified, well-paying
jobs—many earning up to $12,000 annually within months of graduation.
Degree Level
African Leadership University (ALU) Mastercard
Foundation Scholarship Program 2026 – Fully Funded is available to undertake
Undergraduate level programs at African Leadership University (ALU).
Available Subjects
Following subject are available to study under this
scholarship program.
· All
Subjects
Benefits
If selected, you will receive:
1. Full
tuition coverage
- On-campus
accommodation and meals
- Travel
expenses
- Monthly
living stipend
- Leadership
development and career support
- Membership
in a powerful Pan-African alumni network
This
scholarship covers every essential need, ensuring that scholars can focus
solely on their education and leadership journey.
Eligible Nationalities
Open
to applicants of African countries.
Eligibility Criteria
You are encouraged to apply if you meet the following criteria:
- You
are a citizen of an African country
- You
are financially disadvantaged
- You
have demonstrated leadership potential and a strong record of community impact
- You
are committed to driving change in Africa
- Young
women, refugees/displaced persons, and persons with disabilities are strongly
encouraged to apply
How
to win
1.
Be Honest and Clear About Financial Need
The scholarship is need-based,
so you must clearly show why you require financial assistance.
Tip: Include
specific details about your financial background. What challenges have you
faced? What sacrifices have you or your family made for your education?
2.
Show Academic Readiness
Though it’s not only about grades,
ALU expects candidates to be ready for their rigorous, skills-focused programs.
Tip: Share
not just your scores, but also your learning mindset. Mention how you overcame
academic challenges or achieved something against the odds.
3.
Tell Your Leadership Story
This is a must. The program
looks for people who are already taking action in their communities.
Tip: Don’t just say “I’m a leader.”
Describe a real-life project, event, or initiative you led (or co-led), no
matter how small.
Example: "In 2022, I started a local mentorship club that
connected high school girls with university students in STEM fields. We helped
14 girls pass their final year exams with higher scores than the district
average."
4.
Write a Personal, Passionate Essay
Your essay (or personal statement)
is the heart of your application.
Tip: Be
authentic. Share your “why.” Why do you care about solving problems? Why ALU?
What do you want to do after graduation?
Bonus: Mention ALU-specific features that inspire you—like the
“Mission-Driven Learning” model or peer collaboration.
5.
Choose Strong Referees
Pick people who know you
well—teachers, mentors, or community leaders who can write a powerful letter.
Tip:
Brief your referee in advance. Let them know what you’re applying for and
remind them of your strengths and impact.
6.
Apply Early and Carefully
The application process includes:
- Online form submission
- Essays or videos
- Supporting documents (transcripts, ID, references)
- Possible interview
Tip: Don’t rush. Read every question
twice. Double-check your uploads. Start weeks before the deadline.
Interview
Preparation Tips
If shortlisted, you may be called
for an interview. Here’s how to shine:
- Practice answering common questions like:
- "Tell us about yourself"
- "What does leadership mean to you?"
- "Why do you want to study at ALU?"
- Be honest, humble, and passionate
- Dress neatly, even for online interviews
- Keep your answers aligned with ALU’s and Mastercard’s
values: collaboration, change-making, community
My recommendation to you:
Winning the Mastercard Foundation
Scholarship at ALU is not just about having good grades. It's about telling
your story, demonstrating impact, and aligning your values with
the scholarship’s mission.
Thousands apply—but if you prepare
intentionally, start early, and showcase your uniqueness, you have a strong
shot.
Application Procedure
Application Timeline for
Spring 2026
1.
Applications Open: November 1, 2025
2.
Program Intake: January 2026
Make
sure to prepare your documents in advance and visit the official website to
stay updated on exact requirements.
Apply Here:
1 Comments
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