If you are an ambitious young African leader striving to tackle climate change, the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027/28 at the University of Edinburgh offers a life-changing educational pathway. Designed specifically to support high-potential individuals facing financial or social barriers, this fully funded award covers both on-campus and online postgraduate programs. Starting in September 2027, you can gain a world-class degree, receive comprehensive personal mentorship, and build lasting international networks to drive sustainable solutions across Africa.

Financial and Personal Support Package

Securing this scholarship removes every financial obstacle standing between you and a Master’s degree in the UK. On-campus scholars receive 100% approved tuition coverage, high-quality university accommodation, a monthly living stipend, study materials, and return international air travel. Online candidates receive full tuition coverage alongside dedicated digital allowances for laptops and reliable internet access. Additionally, all scholars participate in Edinburgh’s bespoke Climate Leadership Programme, gaining access to summer schools, enterprise workshops, and specialized career placement initiatives.

Sustainability and Development Degree Options

You can align your studies with your career goals across a curated selection of Master’s and Postgraduate Diploma degrees. On-campus options include Sustainable Energy Systems, Climate Change Finance & Investment, Environmental Sustainability, Food Security, Entrepreneurship & Innovation, and Planetary Health. If you prefer studying from your home country, fully online tracks feature Climate Change Management, One Health, Global Food Security & Nutrition, Social Justice & Community Action, and International Development.

Check Your Eligibility for Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027/28

This program targets African citizens, residents, or recognized refugees who demonstrate a strong track record of community service and climate action. To qualify for the 2027/28 intake, you must have completed your undergraduate degree by November 19, 2026, holding official degree certificates and transcripts. Candidates must be 35 years old or younger at program commencement, meaning a birth date on or after January 1, 1992. The committee particularly encourages applications from young women, candidates with disabilities, and individuals from displaced or refugee backgrounds.

Crucial Steps in the Updated Application Process of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The University of Edinburgh has updated its application sequence, making advance registration mandatory. First, you must register for and attend an official virtual information session held between September 15 and September 24, 2026. Eligible attendees will receive a formal invitation via email on October 13, 2026, to launch their online application. You must then submit your Applicant Declaration Form by October 19, 2026 (5:00 PM UK time), followed by the main scholarship application by November 19, 2026. Do not apply directly to the university degree program initially; scholarship winners receive degree submission invitations in March 2027.

Key Details at a Glance

Detail	Information
Scholarship	Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
University	University of Edinburgh
Intake	Fall 2027
Study Options	On-campus and online
Degree Level	Master’s / selected postgraduate programmes
Target Group	Eligible applicants from Africa
Main Application Deadline	November 19, 2026
Information Sessions	September 15–24, 2026
Applicant Declaration Deadline	October 19, 2026
Programme Start	September 2027

The most important deadline is not November—it is the mandatory information session in September. If you do not attend a session, you cannot proceed to the 2027/28 scholarship application process. The official University of Edinburgh guidance also notes that the Applicant Declaration Form may close early once the application limit is reached, making early action particularly important.

If you meet the eligibility requirements, register for an information session and review the official Mastercard Foundation Scholarship information before applications open. 

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