SCHOLARSHIP: Arizona State University, USA Masters Scholarship 2027 |APPLY NOW|
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African students seeking fully funded master’s scholarships in the United States can apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at Arizona State University (ASU). The scholarship provides young African professionals with the opportunity to pursue graduate studies in innovation, technology, engineering, data science, and related fields.
The fully funded scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, visa expenses, airfare, books, meals, living costs, and medical expenses. It also provides support with the university application process, application fees, and English language proficiency examination costs where required.
This guide explains the scholarship benefits, eligible programs, requirements, duration, and application process for prospective applicants.
Overview of the Mastercard Scholarship at Arizona State University
The Mastercard Foundation, in partnership with Arizona State University, will support 120 young African professionals through master’s-level programs over five years, from 2025 to 2030.
The Mastercard Innovation and Technology Scholarship is a fully immersive, traditional, two-year, on-campus master’s program designed to develop technology and education technology experts who can contribute to Africa’s development.
During the academic program, scholars may have the opportunity to work part-time with the Baobab team. This provides practical experience in implementing the strategic objectives of the Baobab Platform while studying.
In addition to academic training, scholars participate in leadership development, mentorship, advising, and activities organized through the wider Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU.
Mastercard Scholarship at Arizona State University Summary
- Host Country: United States of America
- Study Destination: Study in USA
- Host Institution: Arizona State University
- Scholarship Provider: Mastercard Foundation, in partnership with Arizona State University
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships and Master’s Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All African countries
- Study Mode: Full-time, on-campus
- Duration: Two years
- Reward: Fully funded scholarship
- Benefits: Tuition, accommodation, living stipends, travel costs, visa expenses, medical expenses, internship, leadership development, and academic support
- Available Awards: 30 scholarships for students admitted for the 2027/2028 academic year
- Application Deadline: September 27, 2026
The scholarship is designed for talented young Africans who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, community service, and a commitment to ethical leadership.
Benefits of the Mastercard Scholarship at Arizona State University 2027
The scholarship provides comprehensive financial and academic support, including:
- Full tuition fees.
- On-campus accommodation.
- Living stipends and support for daily expenses.
- Visa-related expenses.
- Airfare and travel costs.
- Medical expenses.
- Books and other academic materials.
- Leadership development opportunities.
- Academic advising and support.
- Individual mentorship.
- Participation in Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program activities.
- A two-month internship between the first and second academic years.
- English language proficiency test voucher, if required.
- ASU graduate application fee waiver.
- Assistance with the university admission application process.
- Opportunities to gain practical experience through part-time work with the Baobab team, where available.
For the 2027/2028 academic year, 30 scholars will be selected for full financial support throughout the two-year graduate program.
Eligibility Requirements for the Mastercard Innovation and Technology Scholarship 2027
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of an African country.
- Be committed to ethical leadership.
- Demonstrate engagement and service within their community.
- Be between 18 and 33 years old on or before the application deadline.
- Have a demonstrated record of leadership and community service.
- Show academic excellence.
- Demonstrate ambitions that exceed their available financial resources.
- Have earned, or be on track to earn, an undergraduate degree conferred by July 2027.
- Have no prior or current master’s degree enrollment before or during the scholarship program.
- Be willing to participate in a full-time, two-year, on-campus master’s program at Arizona State University.
- Meet any additional academic and admission requirements of the selected ASU graduate program.
Academic Excellence
Applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance and the ability to succeed in graduate-level study. Academic achievement should be supported by university transcripts and other relevant academic records.
Leadership and Community Service
The scholarship seeks applicants who have demonstrated leadership and service in their communities. Applicants should be prepared to explain their leadership experiences, community involvement, and the impact of their activities.
Financial Need
Candidates must demonstrate that their academic and professional ambitions exceed their financial resources. Applicants should clearly explain how the scholarship would help them access graduate education and pursue their long-term goals.
Degree Requirement
Applicants must have earned an undergraduate degree by July 2027. Candidates should also ensure that their academic background is relevant to the master’s program they select.
Available Master’s Programs at Arizona State University
The Mastercard Scholarship at Arizona State University supports students admitted to selected full-time, on-campus graduate programs, including:
- Master of Science in Global Technology and Development
- Master of Science in Information Technology
- Master of Computer Science
- Master of Science in Data Science, Analytics and Engineering
- Master of Science in Robotics and Autonomous Systems
- Master of Science in Clean Energy Systems
- Master of Science in Civil, Environmental and Sustainable Engineering
- Master of Science in Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use
- Master of Science in Human Systems Engineering – Intelligent Systems
Applicants should confirm the specific admission requirements and availability of each program before applying.
Mastercard Scholarship at Arizona State University Duration and Award
The scholarship is designed to support scholars throughout a two-year master’s program.
For students admitted for the 2027/2028 academic year, 30 scholarships are available. The awards will cover full tuition, accommodation, and comprehensive support for the duration of the graduate program.
Beyond financial assistance, scholars will participate in:
- Leadership curriculum.
- Individual mentorship.
- Academic advising.
- Professional development activities.
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program events.
- Internship opportunities.
- Other educational and leadership programming.
Required Application Information
Applicants should be ready to provide accurate information about their academic background, leadership experience, community service, and financial circumstances.
Depending on the application platform and stage of selection, applicants may be required to provide information or documents such as:
- Personal and contact information.
- Proof of African citizenship.
- Academic history and undergraduate degree information.
- Academic transcripts.
- Leadership and community service details.
- Information about financial need.
- Preferred master’s program.
- Personal statements or written responses.
- Supporting documents requested in the application guidance.
Applicants should carefully review the official application instructions before submitting their forms.
How to Apply for the Mastercard Scholarship at Arizona State University
Interested and qualified applicants should follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Scholarship Application Page
Click the application button on the official scholarship page to access the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application.
Step 2: Review the Application Guidance
Read and understand the eligibility criteria, application instructions, and program requirements before completing the form.
Step 3: Submit the Scholarship Application
Applicants must apply for the scholarship first. Successful candidates will then receive assistance with the process of applying for admission to Arizona State University.
There are two application submission methods:
Online Application
- Visit the application page.
- Click NEXT when the application page opens.
- Complete the online form accurately.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
Downloadable Application
Applicants with limited internet access may complete and submit the downloadable application.
The completed application should be sent to:
mastercardfdnscholars@asu.edu
Applicants should ensure that all information is accurate and complete before submission.
Step 4: Participate in the Selection Process
Shortlisted applicants may be invited to participate in interviews through video or telephone calls.
Step 5: Await the Final Decision
Final scholarship decisions will be made after the interview and selection process. Successful applicants will receive further guidance concerning admission to Arizona State University.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Mastercard Scholarship at Arizona State University is:
September 27, 2026
Applicants are advised to submit their applications early. Early submission allows sufficient time to correct errors, confirm eligibility, prepare supporting information, and address possible internet or technical challenges.
Interested applicants should visit the official Mastercard Foundation Scholarship application page for Arizona State University.
Applicants must carefully read the application guidance and eligibility requirements before submitting their forms. Those with limited internet access may use the downloadable application option and send the completed form to mastercardfdnscholars@asu.edu.
Why Study in the USA as an African International Student?
1. Access to World-Class Education
Studying in the United States provides access to internationally recognized universities, advanced learning facilities, experienced faculty, and innovative academic programs.
2. Strong Technology and Innovation Ecosystem
The USA is a major center for technology, engineering, artificial intelligence, data science, clean energy, and entrepreneurship. Students can learn from current developments and gain exposure to innovative solutions.
3. Research and Practical Training
Graduate students may participate in research projects, internships, laboratories, and professional development activities. These experiences can help students apply academic knowledge to real-world challenges.
4. International Networking
Studying alongside students from different countries creates opportunities to build professional relationships, exchange ideas, and develop international collaborations.
5. Career and Leadership Development
Students can develop technical skills, communication abilities, leadership experience, and professional networks that may support their future careers and contributions to Africa.
Common Eligibility Requirements for Master’s Scholarships Abroad
Although scholarship requirements vary, applicants should generally prepare for the following:
Undergraduate Degree
Applicants usually need a recognized bachelor’s degree or its equivalent before beginning a master’s program.
Strong Academic Record
Many scholarships require academic excellence, a minimum GPA, or evidence of academic potential.
English Language Proficiency
Applicants may need to provide TOEFL, IELTS, or another accepted English language test unless they qualify for an exemption or receive a test voucher through the scholarship.
Leadership and Community Service
Scholarships focused on development and social impact often require evidence of leadership, volunteerism, service, or community engagement.
Financial Need
Some fully funded scholarships require applicants to demonstrate that they lack the financial resources needed to pursue their academic ambitions.
Program Compatibility
Applicants should select a master’s program that matches their previous degree, academic interests, skills, and career plans.
Tips for Writing a Strong Mastercard Scholarship Application
1. Explain Your Leadership Experience Clearly
Describe the leadership roles you have held, the problems you addressed, the people you served, and the measurable impact of your work.
2. Connect Your Goals to Africa’s Development
Explain how your intended program will help you contribute to technology, education, innovation, sustainability, employment, or another important development area in Africa.
3. Demonstrate Financial Need Respectfully
Clearly explain the financial barriers affecting your education without exaggeration. Focus on how the scholarship would make your academic plans possible.
4. Choose a Suitable Master’s Program
Select a program that aligns with your academic background, professional interests, and long-term plans. Be prepared to explain why the program is important to your goals.
5. Review Every Application Detail
Check names, dates, academic information, contact details, and uploaded documents carefully. Incorrect or incomplete information may affect the application.
6. Submit Before the Deadline
Do not wait until the final day. Submit early to reduce the risk of technical problems or incomplete applications.
How Fully Funded Scholarships Support African Students
Fully funded scholarships reduce many of the financial challenges associated with studying abroad.
Key Advantages
- Reduced financial burden: Tuition, accommodation, travel, and living expenses are covered.
- Access to quality education: Students can study at a respected international university.
- Professional development: Internships, mentorship, and leadership training strengthen career preparation.
- Research and innovation exposure: Students gain access to advanced academic and technological environments.
- International networking: Scholars connect with other students, faculty members, professionals, and organizations.
- Community impact: Graduates can apply their knowledge and skills to challenges in their home countries.
- Greater academic focus: Financial support allows scholars to concentrate on coursework, research, leadership, and professional growth.
Final Thoughts
The Mastercard Scholarship at Arizona State University 2027 offers a valuable opportunity for young African professionals to pursue fully funded master’s education in innovation, technology, engineering, data science, and related fields in the United States.
The scholarship provides comprehensive support, including tuition, accommodation, living expenses, travel, visa costs, medical expenses, leadership development, mentorship, internship opportunities, and application fee assistance. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, community service, financial need, and a commitment to ethical leadership.
Eligible applicants should review the available programs, prepare their application carefully, and submit their scholarship forms before September 27, 2026.
