University of Edinburgh Mastercard Foundation Scholarships 2027/2028 Open

The University of Edinburgh Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is now accepting applications for the 2027/2028 academic year. This fully funded initiative provides two postgraduate study routes for qualified candidates from African countries, combining academic study with climate leadership training to develop community-focused change-makers.

Hosted by the University of Edinburgh and funded by the Mastercard Foundation, the program supports students facing educational barriers. Study can be undertaken on-campus in Edinburgh, Scotland, or through online formats. The comprehensive funding package is designed to remove financial obstacles for scholars.

Program Structure and Benefits

The program offers two distinct pathways. One is a one-year, full-time postgraduate taught Master's degree studied on-campus. The other is an online postgraduate diploma. Both routes integrate the Climate Leadership Programme as a core component.

For on-campus scholars, the funding is extensive. It covers full approved tuition fees, accommodation, a living-cost stipend, travel support, and study materials. It also includes participation in the Climate Leadership Programme and specific Climate Enterprise School training focused on sustainable entrepreneurship.

Online scholars receive full approved tuition fees and an academic stipend intended for a laptop and internet access. They also participate in the intensive Climate Enterprise School.

Eligible Academic Programmes

Applicants must apply for specific eligible degrees. The available programmes differ between the on-campus and online study routes.

Online Master's degrees, which may take up to three years of part-time study, are also available. The online postgraduate diplomas may take up to two years to complete.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

Applicants must meet specific criteria. They must be 35 years of age or under for the 2027/28 academic year, meaning they must have been born on or after 1 January 1992. They must be both residents and citizens, or hold refugee status, in an African country.

Academic qualifications are strictly defined. All applicants must have graduated from an undergraduate study with a degree certificate and an official final transcript. Those applying for the on-campus Master's route must not have previously completed a postgraduate degree. Applicants for the online postgraduate diploma can hold either an undergraduate or a Master's degree from an African university.

Beyond academics, candidates must demonstrate proven leadership and service in their community. They must also show experience or a clear ambition in addressing the climate crisis. The program actively encourages applications from women, refugees, displaced persons, and people with disabilities. Additional disability-related support and transition support are available.

How to Apply

The application process requires careful attention to official guidelines. Prospective scholars must review the detailed eligibility requirements and application timelines on the program website. They must then follow the prescribed steps and submit a complete application before the deadline.

The official application instructions are available through the University of Edinburgh's Edinburgh Global web pages. All applications must be submitted by 26 October 2026, at 5pm.