Mastercard Foundation Innovation and Technology Scholarship at Arizona State University (ASU) 2026
- Omran Aburayya
- Aug 9
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 2
If you're a driven young professional from Africa with a passion for technology and innovation, the Mastercard Foundation 2026 Innovation and Technology Scholarship at Arizona State University (ASU) is a transformative opportunity crafted for you. Applications close on Sunday, 14 September 2025 (23:59 GMT)— and here's everything you need to know!
Scholarship Summary
Location: Tempe (Phoenix), Arizona, USA
Host Institution: Arizona State University (ASU)
Study Level: Two-year, full-time on-campus Master’s program
Target Group: Young African professionals (18–33 years), recent graduates by August 2026, who are community-minded, display leadership, and academic excellence
Eligible Programmes:
MS Global Technology and Development
MS Information Technology
MS Human Systems Engineering – Intelligent Systems
MS User Experience
MSc Computer Science
MS Data Science Analytics & Engineering
MS Robotics and Autonomous Systems
MS Civil, Environmental & Sustainable Engineering
MS Clean Energy Systems
MS Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use
Value & Coverage:
Visa, application, and English test fees
Airfare to/from Phoenix, Arizona
Full tuition, books, and academic fees
Medical expenses and on-campus housing
Participation in Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program events, mentorship, leadership curriculum, and programming
Duration: Valid for the entire duration of the master’s program (2 years)
Application Deadline: 14 September 2025, 23:59 GMT
Start Date: August 2026; final decisions expected by late February 2026
🌍 Scholarship Overview
The Mastercard Foundation, in partnership with ASU, offers this immersive program to nurture the next wave of African leaders in tech and innovation. Thirty scholarships are available for the 2026/2027 academic year, and recipients will benefit from holistic support, part-time work on campus (e.g., with the Baobab Platform team), and a two-month internship between their first and second year.
Scholars become part of the broader Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU, gaining access to leadership development, mentorship, cultural events, and peer support.
🎁 Benefits
Fully Funded Experience: From airfare to housing and books, all your scholarship needs are covered.
Academic & Career Development: Benefit from ASU’s dynamic academic environment, leadership training, and real-world internships.
Community & Support: Join an inclusive cohort—women, refugees, displaced persons, and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Return-Social Impact Mandate: Scholars are expected to return home after their studies and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Citizenship: Must be a citizen of an African country, committed to ethical leadership and community engagement.
Age: Between 18 and 33 by the application deadline.
Education: Completed an undergraduate degree by August 2026 and not started any graduate studies before that date.
Admission Qualification: Eligible for the chosen master’s program, including meeting English proficiency standards.
Residency: Must be willing to live in Phoenix, Arizona for the program’s duration.
Application Integrity: Applications must be complete and submitted by the deadline—or they won’t be considered.
📝 Application Procedure
Step 1: Submit the scholarship application—do not apply directly to ASU first.
Step 2: If shortlisted, you'll be guided through the ASU admission process.
Step 3: Shortlisted applicants are invited to an interview (video or phone).
Step 4: Final scholarship decisions are made by late February 2026.
Step 5: Successful candidates join ASU in August 2026.
Required Documents: CV/resume, letter of recommendation, transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and compliance with application guidance.
Applications can be submitted via the official online portal or, for those with limited internet access, via email with the downloadable PDF version attached.
Why This Opportunity Matters
This scholarship does more than fund your studies—it positions you as a transformative leader ready to harness innovation, technology, and academic excellence for Africa’s growth. With ASU’s dynamic environment and Mastercard Foundation’s support, you won’t only learn.
