Fully-funded Graduate Studies with Mastercard Foundation Scholarships at Sciences Po

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po offers a transformative opportunity for talented students from Sub-Saharan Africa to pursue a Master’s degree programmes . This program is designed to provide financial support throughout the two years of study, enabling Scholars to engage fully in their academic journey and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Overview of the Program

As a Mastercard Foundation Scholar, you will have the opportunity to apply to any of the Master’s degree programs offered at Sciences Po’s seven Graduate Schools. The program aims to support students who are committed to creating positive change in Africa, particularly in the areas of public policy and societal transitions.

Admissions Timeline for the 2025-2027 Program

• Application Platform Opens: September 2024
• Application Deadline: December 1, 2024
• Admissions Decisions Released: Mid-February 2025
• Scholarship Allocation Decisions Released: From March 2025
• Master’s Programs Begin: End of August 2025

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Citizenship: Hold citizenship in a Sub-Saharan African country (candidates with a second citizenship from the European Economic Area are not eligible).
• Educational Background: Have completed or be currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program at one of Sciences Po’s institutions of reference or a bridging program organization partnered with the Mastercard Foundation  (see the list of institutions) or  (see the list of institutions).
• Financial Need: Demonstrate a genuine need for funding for higher education (documentation will be required).
• Commitment to Change: Show dedication to achieving change in Africa, particularly in public policy and societal transitions.
• Age Requirement: Be under 35 years old when starting the Master’s program.
• Master’s Program Application: Be applying for a two-year Master’s program (one-year, dual degrees, or joint Master’s programs are not eligible.  (Graduate Schools).

Application Process

To apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, candidates must first gain acceptance to a Master’s program at one of Sciences Po’s Graduate Schools.

Key Steps in the Application Process:

1. Combined Application: Starting September 2024, applications for Master’s programs and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program will be handled through a single online procedure.
2. Application Fee Waiver: Eligible applicants will be exempt from paying the Sciences Po application fee and may submit their applications for free.
3. Evaluation Process: The application will be assessed through the international graduate admissions procedure. If accepted into a Master’s program, the scholarship application will then be evaluated based on the Program’s criteria.

Scholarship Selection

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Selection Committee will review applications and may invite selected applicants for a remote interview. Scholarship recipients will be informed of their award decision and must review and accept the terms outlined in their award letter.

Support for New Scholars

Once accepted, Scholars receive financial support for the entire duration of their Master’s program at Sciences Po. The program offers various forms of assistance to ensure a smooth transition into university life.

Preparing Your Application

Before applying, prospective students should verify their eligibility for Sciences Po’s graduate programs and the specific language requirements (programs are offered in English, French, and bilingual formats). It’s advisable to prepare the following documents well in advance:

Before you begin your application, please check you meet the eligibility criteria for Sciences Po’s graduate programmes and the specific language requirements for each programme. Sciences Po offers English, French and bilingual programmes.

We strongly advise you to begin preparing and assembling the supporting documents you need for your application well in advance (before the application platform opens):

• All supporting documents required for international graduate admissions to Sciences Po.
• Valid photo ID.
• Proof of income (or lack thereof) demonstrating your financial circumstances: tax documents and/or income statements; scholarship certificates; or any other legal document attesting to your financial situation. You must submit at least one document with your application. Bank statements will not be accepted. If you are currently receiving a scholarship (from the Mastercard Foundation or another funding body), or have received one in the past, please also attach the scholarship certificate.
• Proof of current or past enrolment at one of Sciences Po’s institutions of reference

Selection Criteria

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is highly selective. Key criteria for selection include:

• Alignment of Qualifications: The relationship between the degree held, chosen Master’s program, personal and academic background, and future professional goals.
• Critical Thinking Skills: Ability to analyze and understand contemporary political, economic, and societal challenges facing Africa and beyond.
• Ambition and Originality: Demonstrated commitment to entrepreneurial or social impact projects aimed at achieving socio-economic change in Africa.

Applicants are encouraged to express their authentic selves in their motivation letters, drawing on personal experiences. Special consideration is given to applications from refugees, displaced individuals, and persons with disabilities.

Important Notes

• Exemption from the Sciences Po application fee does not guarantee acceptance into the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
• Current Sciences Po students at the graduate level cannot apply for the scholarship.
• If you defer your admission for one year, you will need to reapply for the program the following year.

Contact Us

Have a question about the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po?

Read our FAQ page (PDF).

If you can’t find an answer on our FAQ page, reach out to us directly at the following address: info.mcfsp@sciencespo.fr.