The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme at African Leadership University (ALU) is back for its Spring 2026 intake—and it’s an incredible opportunity for ambitious young Africans who dream of creating real change in the world but face financial challenges.
What’s This Program About?
This prestigious scholarship supports young, talented, and passionate leaders from across Africa. With full financial coverage, the program is especially focused on helping young women, refugees, and differently-abled individuals pursue higher education at ALU—one of the continent’s most innovative institutions.
The Mastercard Foundation, through its Young Africa Works strategy, is on a mission to help 30 million young people—mainly women—secure dignified and fulfilling jobs by the year 2030. In partnership with the African Leadership Group, the Foundation is helping make this a reality by opening up life-changing education and career pathways.
Why ALU?
The African Leadership University doesn’t teach in the traditional way. Students are encouraged to lead their own learning, work on real-world problems, and turn knowledge into action. Graduates leave with practical skills, confidence, and a clear purpose.
Since launching the partnership with Mastercard Foundation, ALU has enrolled 768 scholars from 32 African countries—and 68% of them are women. Nearly 20% are refugees or displaced persons. And here’s the powerful part: 96% of ALU graduates say they’re now working in dignified, fulfilling jobs—with many earning around $12,000 per year just months after graduation!
What the Scholarship Covers?
If you’re selected, here’s what you’ll get:
- Full tuition coverage
- Accommodation and meals
- Travel expenses
- Living stipend
- Leadership development and career support
- Access to a powerful pan-African alumni network.
Who Can Apply?
You’re welcome to apply if you:
- Are from an African country
- Have shown leadership potential and community impact
- Come from a financially disadvantaged background
- Are a young woman, a refugee/displaced person, or a person with a disability (strongly encouraged to apply)
- Want to build a career that makes a difference in Africa.
Invitation: https://www.alueducation.com/mastercard-foundation-scholars-program-at-alu/
Application Timeline – Don’t Miss This!
The application for the January 2026 intake will open on November 1, 2025.
