Mastercard Foundation & ASU Graduate Certificate Scholarship 2026 Opens – Fully Funded Scholarships for African Youth

The 2026 ASU Graduate Certificate Scholarship is now open for applications, offering a fully funded opportunity for young African leaders to gain in-demand global skills through Arizona State University (ASU).

In partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, this program provides access to flexible, online graduate certificates in high-demand fields — with a pathway to a fully funded master’s degree.

 About the Scholarship Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU is designed to empower young African professionals who demonstrate leadership potential, academic excellence, and commitment to community impact.

Selected scholars will enroll in one of the following part-time, online graduate certificate programs:

• Graduate Certificate in Foundations of Supply Chain Management
• Graduate Certificate in Global Management, Entrepreneurship and Innovation

These programs are delivered in a flexible online format, allowing scholars to study from their home countries while continuing community engagement.

 Pathway to a Fully Funded Master’s Degree

Participants who successfully complete the graduate certificate will be automatically entered into the selection process for a fully supported online master’s degree in:

• Supply Chain Management
• Leadership Management

This creates a powerful academic and professional progression opportunity.

Scholarship Benefits

The scholarship package includes:

✔ Full tuition coverage for the ASU graduate certificate
✔ Fully online, flexible learning format
✔ One-on-one coaching and mentorship
✔ Potential progression to a fully funded master’s degree

This initiative aims to remove financial barriers and empower Africa’s next generation of ethical leaders.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be a citizen of an African country
• Be between 18 and 33 years old by March 8, 2026
• Demonstrate ethical leadership and community engagement
• Show strong academic excellence
• Demonstrate financial need
• Hold an undergraduate degree by July 2026
• Not have prior or current enrollment in a master’s degree program

Women, refugees, displaced persons, and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

 How to Apply

Applicants can submit their applications in two ways:

Online Application (Recommended)
PDF Submission via Email (for those with limited internet access, including CV/Resume, Recommendation Letter, and Transcripts)

All applicants must carefully review eligibility and guidance before submission. Late or incomplete applications may be disqualified.

Why This Opportunity Matters

This scholarship is more than financial support — it is a leadership development initiative. Scholars are expected to use their education to contribute to social and economic development in their home countries.

By combining flexible digital learning with mentorship and leadership development, this program is shaping Africa’s future changemakers.