Innovation and Technology Scholarship

Young African professionals. Pursue master's degrees focused on technology and innovation. Commit to using skills and education to contribute to home communities, fostering social and economic growth. Women, refugees and displaced persons, and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Must apply for one of the following full-time, on-campus graduate programs: MS Global Technology and Development, MS Information Technology, MCS Computer Science, MS Data Science Analytics & Engineering, MS Robotics and Autonomous Systems, MS Clean Energy Systems, MS Civil, Environmental & Sustainable Engineering, MS Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use, MS Human Systems Engineering - Intelligent Systems.

Submit your application by Sunday, September 27, 2026 at 23:59 GMT. Apply Now.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, in partnership with Arizona State University, is offering significant graduate study opportunities for young African professionals. These scholarships are specifically designed for those wishing to pursue master's degrees focused on technology and innovation, aiming to foster social and economic growth within their home countries. The programme is part of Phase III: Innovation and Technology, expanding access to advanced education and professional learning.

What is the Innovation and Technology Scholarship?

This scholarship provides 30 fully funded graduate study opportunities. It is a key component of the broader Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Arizona State University, which aims to empower young leaders from Africa. The initiative focuses on technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship, delivered through in-person and online degree programmes, professional certificates, and English language learning opportunities.

Who is Eligible?

The scholarship is intended for young African professionals who are committed to using their skills and education to contribute positively to their communities. There is a strong expectation that participants will foster social and economic growth in their home countries. The programme actively encourages applications from underrepresented groups, including women, refugees and displaced persons, and people with disabilities.

Key Eligibility Highlights:

• Be a young African professional
• Commit to contributing to their home communities
• Strong encouragement for women, refugees, displaced persons, and people with disabilities
• Must apply for one of the following full-time, on-campus graduate programmes at Arizona State University:
  • MS Global Technology and Development
  • MS Information Technology
  • MCS Computer Science
  • MS Data Science Analytics & Engineering
  • MS Robotics and Autonomous Systems
  • MS Clean Energy Systems
  • MS Civil, Environmental & Sustainable Engineering
  • MS Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use
  • MS Human Systems Engineering - Intelligent Systems

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

This is a comprehensive scholarship designed to remove financial barriers and provide robust support for scholars. It includes:

• Full tuition and fees
• On-campus housing and books
• Visa, airfare, and medical expenses
• Leadership development
• Academic advising and support
• A two-month internship between the first and second years of study

The programme ensures that scholars receive not only financial aid but also professional and personal development opportunities, equipping them for impactful careers.