Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Oxford
University of Oxford | Fully Funded 2026/2027
The University of Oxford and the Mastercard Foundation have launched an ambitious partnership under the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx). This fully funded scholarship aims to support 400 young African scholars to pursue taught Master’s degrees at one of the world’s most prestigious universities.
🌟 Scholarship Value: Full Cost
This is a Full-Cost Scholarship covering 100% of tuition fees, living expenses, flights, and visa costs. It is specifically designed for high-achieving African students passionate about pandemic preparedness, recovery, and sustainable development.
Scholarship Overview
| Host Institution | University of Oxford, United Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Program Level | One-Year Taught Master’s Degree |
| Target Group | Citizens of African Countries |
| Coverage | Fully Funded (Tuition + Stipend + Travel) |
| Application Period | September 2025 – January 2026 |
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Oxford provides one of the most comprehensive funding packages available for international students:
- ✅ Full Tuition Fees: 100% coverage of course fees.
- ✅ Living Stipend: A grant for living costs at the UKRI minimum doctoral stipend rate.
- ✅ Travel Logistics: Economy return flight tickets.
- ✅ Visa & Health: Visa fees and Immigration Health Surcharge fees.
- ✅ Settling In: A dedicated settling-down allowance.
- ✅ Thrive Fund: Access to emergency funding.
🌍 The “Ubuntu Period of Service”
An innovative aspect of this program is the second year. Upon completing the Master’s degree, scholars undertake a 4-6 month placement in leading Africa-based organizations. This “Ubuntu Period” allows scholars to work on impactful projects, launch start-ups, or work with NGOs, receiving mentorship from leading African experts.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following strict criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of an African country and ordinarily resident there (exceptions made for refugees/displaced persons).
- Academic Offer: Must hold an offer for a full-time one-year taught Master’s course at Oxford.
- No Prior Graduate Degree: Applicants should not have previously completed a graduate degree.
- Leadership: Demonstrate a track record of leadership and service within their community.
- AfOx Values: Alignment with values of Collegiality, Empathy, Commitment, and Inclusivity.
*The program particularly welcomes applications from female scholars, people from refugee/displaced backgrounds, and those with accessibility needs.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
The application process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is integrated with the University of Oxford graduate admissions.
- Select Your Course: Choose a relevant one-year taught Master’s course at the University of Oxford.
- Submit Graduate Application: Apply for your chosen course via the Graduate Admissions Portal by the relevant December or January funding deadline (varies by course).
- Indicate Status: If you have a displacement background, select “YES” to the refugee/displaced question on the form.
- Wait for Invitation: Eligible candidates who receive a course offer will be contacted by Student Fees and Funding via email and invited to complete the scholarship application form.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a virtual interview.
