Africa Oxford Initiative Scholarship 2025 by Mastercard Foundation
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Oxford, in partnership with the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx), is an exceptional opportunity for young African scholars to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree at one of the world’s most prestigious universities.
This initiative is designed to support 400 African students who are committed to contributing to pandemic preparedness, recovery, and development across Africa. The program aligns with the Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals, making it a key driver for Africa’s future prosperity.
Benefits Pack
The Africa Oxford Initiative Scholarship 2025 offers a comprehensive range of benefits, ensuring that selected scholars can focus on their academic and professional growth:
- Full tuition coverage for the entire duration of the one-year Master’s program.
- Living expenses grant at the UKRI minimum doctoral stipend rate.
- Return economy airfare, visa fees, and Immigration Health Surcharge coverage.
- Settling-in allowance to assist scholars in adapting to life in the UK.
- Access to a Thrive Fund for emergency support.
- Bespoke Leadership and Impact Program, designed to foster collaborative leadership skills for cross-sector solutions to Africa’s challenges.
- Ubuntu Period of Service: After completing the academic program, scholars will engage in 4-6 month placements in Africa-based organizations to implement impactful projects.
- AfOx Alumni Network: A lifelong network that supports scholars even after their academic journey, providing career mentoring and opportunities for collaboration.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Oxford, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- African Nationality: Must be a resident of an African country and committed to contributing to Africa’s development.
- Master’s Degree Application: Applicants must apply for one of the eligible taught Master’s programs at the University of Oxford by the course-specific deadline.
- Academic Excellence: Demonstrate a strong academic record and potential for high achievement.
- Leadership Potential: Evidence of leadership experience and a commitment to contributing to their community and Africa’s development.
- Alignment with AfOx Themes: A commitment to addressing issues related to pandemic preparedness, food systems, health sciences, sustainable water and energy systems, governance, and entrepreneurship.
- Underrepresented Groups: Priority is given to candidates from historically underrepresented groups, including women, people from refugee or displaced backgrounds, and those with disabilities.
Application Process
The application process is rigorous but rewarding:
- Submit an Oxford Master’s Application: Interested applicants must submit their application for a taught Master’s program at the University of Oxford through the graduate admissions portal by the relevant course-specific deadline hand then apply for scholarship as per this https://www.afox.ox.ac.uk/mastercard-foundation-scholars-program-university-oxford.
- Selection Criteria: Eligible candidates will be evaluated based on academic merit, leadership potential, alignment with AfOx values, and a demonstrated commitment to Africa’s development.
- Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview between February and April 2025.
- Notification: Successful applicants will be notified by July 2025 and will receive an offer letter along with additional details regarding the next steps.
Application Deadlines
The deadlines for applying to the University of Oxford’s various Master’s programs are as follows:
- 15th November 2024: Some courses
- 3rd December 2024: Medical Sciences and some other courses
- 7th January 2025: Humanities courses
- 8th January 2025: Mathematical, Physical, and Life Sciences courses
- 9th January 2025: Some Social Sciences courses
- 28th January 2025: Other Social Sciences courses
- 29th January 2025: Continuing Education, Law, and other remaining courses.
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