Hey future leaders! Ready to make a real impact on Africa’s future? We’re talking about an incredible, fully-funded opportunity to pursue your Master’s degree at one of the world’s most prestigious universities – the University of Cambridge!
The University of Cambridge Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme Bursary 2026 is specifically designed for talented young Africans who are passionate about driving positive change. If you’ve been dreaming of studying abroad and bringing your skills back home to build a more sustainable and resilient Africa, then keep reading – this bursary could be your golden ticket!
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for this game-changing bursary, here’s what you need:
- You must be from, and currently living in, an African country. (Don’t worry if you’re temporarily outside Africa for study or work, you can still apply!)
- You need to have a bachelor’s degree.
- You must meet the academic entry requirements for your chosen Master’s course at Cambridge. Some courses require a UK first-class honours degree equivalent, while others might need an upper second-class degree. Make sure to check your specific course’s requirements on the postgraduate study course directory.
- You must apply for an eligible full-time Master’s programme. Please note that the following Master’s courses are not eligible for this programme: Master of Accountancy (MACC), Business Administration (MBA), Master of Corporate Law (MCL), and Master of Finance (MFIN).
- You need to show a strong commitment to giving back to your community, your home country, or Africa in general, especially focusing on themes of sustainability and climate resilience.
What Does It Cover?
This bursary is fully funded, meaning it’s designed to remove financial barriers so you can focus entirely on your studies and leadership development. Here’s what you can expect:
- Your full course fees will be covered.
- You’ll receive a monthly living allowance to help with your maintenance costs.
- Your visa application fee, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and an economy return flight ticket from your home country to the UK will also be covered.
But wait, there’s more! Beyond the financial support, Scholars also benefit from:
- A comprehensive induction programme before your academic year begins.
- Termly leadership training modules designed to help you develop collaborative leadership qualities and think about sustainable solutions for global development.
- Support for a valuable 3-6 month placement in a leading Africa-based organisation.
- Exclusive access to both the prestigious Cambridge University Alumni group and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program alumni group, connecting you with a powerful network of African scholars and leaders for life!
Important Note: Due to changes in UK Home Office rules from January 2024, spouses and children of students on one-year taught master’s programmes are unfortunately not eligible to apply for dependant visas.
How to Apply?
Ready to take the leap? Here’s the general application timeline and how to get started:
- Applications open: 10 September 2025
- Application and Funding deadline: This depends on your chosen course – it will either be in early December 2025 or early January 2026. Make sure to check the specific deadline for your programme!
- Departmental academic selection: December 2025 – February 2026
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars selection: Late February – early March 2026
- Scholarships offered: March / April 2026
For more detailed information and to start your application, head straight to the official webpage:
Visit the Official Webpage of the University of Cambridge Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme
If this sounds like the perfect bursary to kickstart your journey as a leader for Africa, don’t wait — explore the options, prepare your application, and get ready to shine! Don’t forget to explore more incredible bursaries right here on Bursaries Room!
