South African students with a passion for making a difference in Africa have an incredible opportunity to pursue their Master’s degree at the prestigious University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) with the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship.
This scholarship program offers not just financial aid but also a supportive community to empower future African leaders.
Founded in 1868, UC Berkeley is a world-renowned public research university consistently ranked among the top universities globally.
Boasting an active academic atmosphere, cutting-edge research facilities, and a diverse student body, UC Berkeley offers an exceptional learning environment that will prepare you for success.
About UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation Scholarship
The UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation Scholarship is a partnership between the Mastercard Foundation and UC Berkeley’s Center for African Studies.
This program aims to support academically talented students from Sub-Saharan Africa who are committed to driving positive change on the continent.
The scholarship provides comprehensive support, including:
- Full tuition and fees for your Master’s program at UC Berkeley
- Living expenses and accommodation assistance
- Academic and career counseling
- Opportunities for professional development and networking events
UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Be a citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country. This includes Africans with refugee or displaced person status within Africa. Dual citizens with citizenship in the US, Canada, UK, or EU are not eligible.
- Academic Excellence: Demonstrate strong academic achievement through your undergraduate studies. Gaining admission to a UC Berkeley Master’s program is a prerequisite for scholarship consideration.
- Leadership Potential: Possess the potential to become a transformative leader – someone who can ethically inspire and engage others to create lasting positive change.
- Socio-Economic Background: Come from a socio-economically disadvantaged background. This scholarship aims to empower talented individuals who might not otherwise have access to quality education.
- Community Commitment: Show a commitment to giving back to your community, country, or continent. This could involve involvement in social, economic, or political initiatives that demonstrate your passion for making a difference.
- Intention to Return Home: Be dedicated to returning to your home country after completing your studies. The program aims to equip Scholars with the knowledge and skills to address challenges in their communities upon return.
UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Application Requirements
In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria, you will need to submit the following documents for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship application:
- A complete application to a UC Berkeley Master’s program. Ensure you meet all program-specific deadlines.
- A separate Mastercard Foundation Scholarship application form. This form will typically be available after you gain admission to the Master’s program.
- Academic transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
- Standardized test scores (if required by your chosen Master’s program).
- Letters of recommendation (typically two to three).
- A personal statement outlining your:
- Academic achievements and research goals.
- Leadership experiences and potential.
- Commitment to community service and social change in Africa.
- Plans for utilizing your UC Berkeley education upon returning home.**
For the latest information on required documents and specific application deadlines, please refer to the official UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program website.
How to Apply
The application process for the UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation Scholarship is two-fold:
- Apply to a UC Berkeley Master’s Program:
- Research and choose a Master’s program that aligns with your academic and professional goals.
- Visit the program’s website and carefully review admission requirements and deadlines.
- Submit a complete application to your chosen program before the application deadline (note that only applications submitted in the first round will be considered for the scholarship).
- Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship:
- After gaining admission to your chosen Master’s program, you will be notified if you are eligible to apply for the scholarship.
- Access the scholarship application form through the UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program website.
- Complete the application form carefully, ensuring you provide all requested information and supporting documents.
- Submit your scholarship application before the deadline specified by the program.
How to Contact
For questions about the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application process, contact: [email protected].
For questions about admissions to specific graduate programs, contact the program directly.
You can find more information about UC Berkeley’s graduate programs here.
UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Closing Date
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley is currently accepting applications until Fall 2028.
However, individual graduate programs may have earlier deadlines.
Be sure to check the deadlines for your chosen program.