University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026-2027

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Are you an African citizen eager to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree in the USA? Exciting news! Applications for the University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026-2027 are now open at UC Berkeley. This prestigious, fully funded program, in partnership with the MasterCard Foundation, empowers talented African students to earn a Master’s degree while developing leadership skills for socio-economic transformation back home. Covering tuition, housing, travel, and more, this scholarship is a life-changing opportunity to study at one of the world’s top universities. Don’t miss your chance to join a network of ethical, entrepreneurial leaders and apply now through your chosen program’s deadline!

University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarship

Overview of University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026-2027

  • Host University: University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)
  • Funded By: MasterCard Foundation
  • Country: USA
  • Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
  • Eligible Nationalities: African citizens
  • Study Level: Master’s Degree
  • Number of Awards: Varies by program (up to 201 scholars supported through the 10-year partnership)
  • Application Deadline: Varies by graduate program (check specific deadlines on the UC Berkeley Graduate Division website)

The University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026-2027 is part of a 10-year partnership between UC Berkeley and the MasterCard Foundation, aimed at supporting academically talented African students committed to transformative change on the continent. Launched to address barriers to higher education, the program recruits from across Africa, fostering a cohort of leaders who return home to drive social and economic progress. With a focus on ethical entrepreneurship and community impact, this scholarship provides not just financial aid but also mentorship, networking, and leadership training.

Available Master’s Programs

The MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026-2027 supports a range of eligible Master’s programs at UC Berkeley, including:

  • MIMS (Master of Information Management and Systems)
  • MCS (Master of Computational and Data Science)
  • MPH (Master of Public Health)
  • MPP (Master of Public Policy)
  • MBA (Master of Business Administration) – Additional Haas funding required
  • Other Eligible Programs: Electrical Engineering & Computer Sciences, Mechanical Engineering, Civil & Environmental Engineering, and more (full list on the official website)

Not all programs are eligible; applicants must apply to an approved Master’s program through the regular admissions process. Check the UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program website for the latest list.

Scholarship Benefits

The University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026-2027 provides comprehensive financial and professional support, ensuring scholars can focus on their studies and impact goals:

  • Full Tuition and Fees: Complete coverage of academic costs for the Master’s program.
  • Housing and Living Expenses: Free on-campus or off-campus accommodation and a stipend for daily needs.
  • Food and Meals: Support for meal plans or living allowances.
  • Travel and Visa Expenses: Round-trip airfare from home country to Berkeley and visa processing fees.
  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for medical needs.
  • Mentorship and Networking: Access to top mentors, leadership workshops, and connections with the global MasterCard Foundation Scholars community.
  • Post-Graduation Support: Training and resources to facilitate return to Africa and community impact initiatives.

These benefits remove financial barriers, allowing scholars to thrive academically and professionally.

Eligibility Criteria for University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026

To qualify for the University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026-2027, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Nationality: Must be a citizen of an African country (proof required).
  • Academic Status: Pursuing a full-time Master’s degree at UC Berkeley in an eligible program.
  • Academic Performance: Strong undergraduate record (typically GPA 3.0 or equivalent) and demonstrated leadership potential.
  • Barriers to Education: Facing significant challenges in accessing higher education, such as financial hardship or limited opportunities.
  • Commitment to Impact: Proven dedication to addressing social and economic challenges in Africa, with a clear intention to return home after studies.
  • Program Admission: Must secure admission to an eligible UC Berkeley Master’s program through the regular application process.
  • Additional Requirements: For MBA applicants, additional funding from Haas Business School is required (apply in Rounds 1 or 2).

The program prioritizes candidates with entrepreneurial spirit and a vision for community transformation.

Required Documents

To apply for the University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026-2027, prepare the following as part of your UC Berkeley Master’s program application:

  • UC Berkeley Application Form: Completed via the Graduate Division online portal.
  • Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all previous institutions.
  • CV or Resume: Highlighting academic achievements, leadership roles, and community impact.
  • Two or Three Letters of Recommendation: From professors, employers, or mentors attesting to your potential.
  • Statement of Purpose: A 1–2 page essay outlining your academic goals, leadership experiences, and commitment to Africa’s development.
  • Proof of English Proficiency: TOEFL (minimum 90 iBT) or IELTS (minimum 7.0 overall).
  • Financial Need Statement: Optional documentation demonstrating barriers to education.

All documents must be uploaded in PDF format through the program-specific application portal.

Application Timeline for University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026

Deadlines vary by Master’s program; applicants must apply to an eligible program first for scholarship consideration:

  • Application Opening: September 1, 2025 (for most programs)
  • Program-Specific Deadlines:
    • MIMS: December 1, 2025
    • MCS: December 1, 2025
    • MPH: December 1, 2025
    • MPP: December 1, 2025
    • MBA (Haas): Round 1 (September 2025), Round 2 (January 2026)
  • Scholarship Notification: March–April 2026 (aligned with program admissions)
  • Program Start: August/September 2026

Check the UC Berkeley Graduate Division website for exact deadlines for your chosen program.

How to Apply for University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026

The application process for the University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026-2027 is integrated with UC Berkeley’s Master’s admissions:

  1. Select an Eligible Program: Choose a supported Master’s program from the official list.
  2. Apply to UC Berkeley: Submit your full application through the UC Berkeley Graduate Division Portal, including all required documents and fees (if applicable).
  3. Indicate Scholarship Interest: In the application, select the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program as a funding source.
  4. Submit Supporting Materials: Upload transcripts, CV, recommendations, statement of purpose, and English proficiency proof.
  5. Await Admission Review: The Graduate Division evaluates your application for program admission. If accepted, it’s automatically considered for the scholarship.
  6. Interviews (If Shortlisted): Selected candidates may be invited for virtual interviews in February–March 2026.
  7. Receive Results: Scholarship offers are announced with admission decisions by April 2026.

No separate scholarship application is needed; admission to an eligible program is the first step. For guidance, contact the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program office.

Why Choose the University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarship?

UC Berkeley, a global leader in innovation and social impact, partners with the MasterCard Foundation to empower African leaders. Here’s why this scholarship stands out:

  • Top-Ranked University: Study at UC Berkeley, ranked #1 public university worldwide, with access to cutting-edge research facilities.
  • Leadership Focus: Develop entrepreneurial skills through mentorship, workshops, and the Scholars Program community.
  • Global Network: Join over 40,000 MasterCard Foundation scholars worldwide for lifelong connections.
  • Impact-Driven: Designed to equip you to return to Africa and lead socio-economic change.
  • Vibrant Campus: Experience Berkeley’s diverse, innovative environment in the heart of California.

This scholarship is more than funding and it’s a pathway to transformative leadership.

Additional Scholarship Opportunities

Explore other study abroad scholarships:

Tips for a Successful MasterCard Foundation Scholarship Application

To increase your chances of securing the University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026-2027, follow these tips:

  • Emphasize Impact: Highlight your leadership and community contributions in your statement of purpose.
  • Demonstrate Need: Clearly articulate barriers to education and your commitment to returning to Africa.
  • Secure Strong Recommendations: Choose referees who can speak to your potential and achievements.
  • Apply Early: Target programs with December 1, 2025 deadlines for timely review.
  • Tailor Your Application: Align your goals with the Scholars Program’s mission of socio-economic transformation.

Conclusion

The University of California MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026-2027 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for African students to pursue a fully funded Master’s at UC Berkeley. With comprehensive coverage for tuition, housing, travel, and more, plus leadership training and global networking, this scholarship empowers you to drive change in Africa. Don’t miss your chance to join a cohort of ethical, energetic leaders and apply now through your chosen program’s deadline!

For more information or to apply, visit the UC Berkeley MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program Official Website and take the first step toward a brighter future.