About The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
United States International University-Africa (USIU-Africa) has partnered with the Mastercard Foundation for the Global Scholars Program in 2023. This initiative aims to provide academically talented youth from Africa, who face financial, gender, displacement, or disability challenges, with the opportunity to access a world-class university education.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at USIU-Africa will offer full-cost scholarships to young Africans who are applying for their first undergraduate degree. Upon completing their studies, these scholars will be expected to lead positive changes in their communities and contribute to meaningful transformation across the continent. They will be equipped with internationally recognized qualifications that are also relevant locally.
Eligibility:
- Only youth who are under 29 years old and fall into the following categories are eligible:
- Young women and men.
- Refugees and displaced youth.
- Youth with disabilities.
- Scholars should demonstrate the following qualities:
- Academic talent: They must have a strong commitment to learning and a personal drive to complete their education. They must also meet the university admissions requirements set by the Kenya Commission for University Education or its equivalent.
- Commitment to giving back: Applicants should show dedication to improving their communities through previous and/or current involvement in community outreach activities.
- Leadership potential: Scholars must display a commitment to becoming change-makers, role models, and ethical leaders who embrace responsible leadership.
- Applicants must be interested in and meet USIU-Africa’s admissions criteria and academic qualifications for one of the approved 13 undergraduate degree programs as follows:
- School of Science and Technology (SST) – Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Technology, Bachelor of Science in Information Systems and Technology, Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Analytics, Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering.
- School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (SPHS) – Bachelor of Pharmacy, Bachelor of Science in Epidemiology and Biostatistics.
- School of Communication, Cinematic and Creative Arts (SCCCA) – Bachelor of Arts in Animation, Bachelor of Arts in Film Production and Directing.
- Chandaria School of Business Administration (CSOB) – Bachelor of Science in Finance, Bachelor of Science in International Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Accounting.
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS) – Bachelor of Arts in International Relations, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.
You can find more information about the above-mentioned degree programs on the university’s website under the undergraduate programs section.
Application Process:
- The program intake occurs twice a year (May and September semesters).
- A ‘Call for Applications’ will be announced five months before the intake.
- The application process involves six stages: Application, Review of applications, Shortlisting, Interviews, Selection, and University Admissions.
Benefits of Joining the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program:
Mastercard Foundation Scholars at USIU-Africa will receive comprehensive support, including:
- Tuition and functional fees.
- Laptops, books, and other learning materials.
- Accommodation and meals.
- Medical insurance.
- Stipend.
- Transportation to and from home.
- Access to leadership training.
- Access to entrepreneurial training.
- Psycho-social support, career counseling, and mentorship.
- Adequate provisions for disabilities.
For more information:
Contact the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Team at USIU-Africa:
Email: mcfsp-enquiries@usiu.ac.ke
Phone: +254 730 116 218 / 500 / 107 / 148
Click here for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).