30 seats. That is what the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Arizona State University is offering for the 2026 intake. 30 graduate scholarships for young African professionals who want to study technology and innovation at one of America’s largest public research universities.
The application window is open right now. For anyone this program was built for that deadline is the only number that matters this week.
Published on: September 9, 2026. Application deadline confirmed as 27 September 2026 at 23:59 GMT. Review the official program FAQs and contact mastercardfndscholars@asu.edu for the latest details.
At a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Program | Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU |
| University | Arizona State University USA |
| Available spots | 30 graduate scholarships |
| Study mode | Full-time on-campus |
| Focus | Technology and innovation |
| Degree level | Master’s degree |
| Who can apply | Young African professionals |
| Application deadline | 27 September 2026 |
What This Program Is
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is one of the largest education initiatives on the African continent. Its partnership with Arizona State University brings that mission to the United States, giving selected African scholars access to ASU’s graduate programs alongside an international network of students, academics and professionals.
For the 2026 intake only 30 spots are available. Scholars pursue full-time on-campus master’s degrees focused on technology and innovation. Fields that are reshaping economies, labor markets and development pathways across Africa and globally.
Beyond the degree itself, the program connects scholars to a broader community built through the Mastercard Foundation’s education and leadership work across the continent.
Eligible master’s programs include options such as:
- MS Global Technology and Development
- MS Information Technology
- MCS Computer Science
- MS Data Science Analytics and Engineering
- MS Robotics and Autonomous Systems
Confirm the full current list on the official program page.
An Important Note on Funding Details
The scholarship supports selected scholars comprehensively. It typically includes tuition and related academic costs along with leadership development, academic advising and a two-month internship between the first and second years. Visa airfare and medical expenses are also addressed in the package.
Before investing significant time in your application, verify the exact coverage and eligibility criteria through:
- The official program FAQs on the ASU Mastercard Foundation Scholars page
- Direct contact with the program team at mastercardfndscholars@asu.edu
Specific questions worth clarifying before you apply:
- Which exact ASU master’s programs fall within the scholarship’s scope this cycle
- The full list of covered costs including living expenses, flights and health insurance
- Complete eligibility requirements including any age limits, country eligibility and academic standards
- Whether applicants currently enrolled in a master’s program elsewhere remain eligible
Getting clear answers to these questions before starting your application saves time and prevents a strong application from being disqualified on a technicality.
Why ASU and Why Technology
Arizona State University is consistently ranked among the most innovative universities in the United States. Its graduate programs in engineering, computer science, data science, artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship and sustainability are well regarded internationally.
For African professionals, graduate training in these areas carries particular relevance. Digital infrastructure, fintech, agricultural technology, health systems and climate adaptation are all sectors where technical expertise is in short supply and high demand across the continent.
A master’s degree from ASU in a technology or innovation field does not just build personal credentials. It builds the kind of applied expertise that translates directly into the problems African economies are working to solve.
Who Should Apply
The program is aimed specifically at young African professionals seeking full-time graduate study in technology or innovation at ASU.
Strong candidates are likely to be those who:
- Hold an undergraduate degree in a relevant field
- Have professional or research experience connected to technology innovation or development
- Can demonstrate how advanced graduate study will connect to specific goals in their career or community
- Are ready to commit to full-time on-campus study in the United States
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through the official online application for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Arizona State University.
Before you start the form:
- Read the official program FAQs in full
- Confirm you meet the graduate program specific requirements for your intended ASU master’s program
- Prepare your academic transcripts and supporting documents
- Draft your personal statement or motivation responses in advance
- Identify your recommenders and give them adequate notice
When you are ready:
- Complete the official online application accurately
- Upload all required documents before the deadline
- Submit before 27 September 2026 at 23:59 GMT
Do not wait for the final week. Supporting documents take time to gather. Recommenders need notice. Applications submitted under deadline pressure are rarely as strong as those prepared over several weeks.
For questions not answered in the FAQs contact the program team directly at mastercardfndscholars@asu.edu.