The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Arizona State University (ASU) is offering fully funded graduate scholarship opportunities for young African professionals seeking to pursue master’s degrees in technology, innovation, engineering, data science, computing, sustainable energy and related fields in the United States.
For the 2027–2028 academic year, the Innovation and Technology Scholarship is offering 30 graduate study opportunities to eligible African students admitted through the scholarship selection process. The programme is designed to provide not only financial support for graduate education but also leadership development, mentorship, professional development, community engagement and other forms of academic and career support.
The scholarship provides an opportunity to undertake a full-time, two-year, in-person graduate degree at Arizona State University’s Tempe campus in Arizona, USA. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU describes its current third phase as focused on preparing young African leaders with skills and knowledge in technology and sustainable innovation.
Application Deadline: Sunday, September 27, 2026, at 23:59 GMT
Applicants interested in this opportunity should carefully review the eligibility requirements, degree options, scholarship coverage and application instructions before submitting their applications.
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Arizona State University
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global initiative designed to expand access to higher education for talented young people who have the potential to become transformative leaders.
At Arizona State University, the partnership has operated through different phases. The current phase, known as Phase III: Innovation and Technology, focuses particularly on technology, innovation and entrepreneurship and provides pathways through graduate education, professional learning and related opportunities.
The broader ASU programme is built around more than simply paying for a student’s education. Scholars receive holistic support intended to help them succeed academically, professionally and personally. The programme places significant emphasis on leadership development, community engagement and the expectation that scholars will use their knowledge and skills to contribute to positive social and economic development in their communities and home countries.
For the 2027–2028 Innovation and Technology Scholarship cycle, selected scholars will have the opportunity to study in technology- and innovation-related master’s programmes at ASU.
What Makes the 2027 Innovation and Technology Scholarship Important?
Graduate education in highly specialised areas such as computer science, artificial intelligence, data science, robotics, information technology and sustainable energy can be expensive, particularly for international students studying in the United States.
This scholarship is designed to remove many of those financial barriers by providing comprehensive support to selected scholars.
The programme is therefore particularly relevant to young African professionals who have demonstrated:
- Strong academic achievement
- Leadership potential
- Commitment to community service
- An interest in technology, innovation or sustainable development
- A desire to use advanced education to contribute to positive change in Africa and beyond
The programme’s emphasis is not only on what applicants have achieved academically but also on the impact they hope to create through their education and leadership.
The official ASU programme describes the scholarship as an opportunity for young African professionals to pursue master’s degrees focused on technology and innovation, with women, refugees and displaced persons, and people with disabilities strongly encouraged to apply.
Number of Scholarships Available
For the 2027–2028 academic year, the programme is offering:
30 graduate study opportunities.
These opportunities are intended for eligible African applicants seeking to pursue selected full-time, on-campus master’s programmes at Arizona State University.
The current ASU Innovation and Technology Scholarship page confirms the availability of 30 graduate study opportunities for the 2027–2028 cycle.
Study Location
Successful scholars will undertake their graduate studies at:
Arizona State University
Tempe, Arizona, United States
This is an in-person, on-campus programme. Applicants must therefore be prepared to relocate to Tempe and reside on the ASU campus for the duration of their programme.
This is important because the opportunity is not simply an online scholarship. Applicants must be able to participate in the traditional campus-based graduate experience.
Master’s Degree Programmes Covered by the Scholarship
The scholarship is available for selected full-time, on-campus graduate programmes in technology, computing, engineering, energy and related areas.
The programmes listed for the 2027–2028 scholarship cycle are:
1. Master of Science in Global Technology and Development
The MS in Global Technology and Development focuses on the relationship between technology, development and global challenges.
The programme is particularly relevant to applicants interested in understanding how technological innovation can be applied to address development challenges and improve social and economic outcomes.
Learn more about the MS Global Technology and Development programme
2. Master of Science in Information Technology
The MS in Information Technology provides advanced study in information technology and related technical areas.
It may be particularly relevant to applicants seeking careers involving information systems, technology management, digital transformation and other technology-related fields.
Learn more about the MS Information Technology programme
3. Master of Science in Human Systems Engineering – Intelligent Systems
This programme focuses on intelligent systems and the interaction between people and technological systems.
It provides an option for applicants interested in areas involving human-centred technological systems, intelligent technologies and the design of systems that interact effectively with people.
Learn more about the Human Systems Engineering – Intelligent Systems programme
4. Master of Science in Computer Science
The MS in Computer Science provides graduate-level study in computing and computer science.
It is suitable for applicants interested in developing advanced technical knowledge that can support careers and research in areas of computing and technology.
Learn more about the Computer Science master’s programme
5. Master of Science in Data Science, Analytics and Engineering
The scholarship includes the Computing and Decision Analytics pathway within ASU’s Data Science, Analytics and Engineering programme.
This area is relevant to applicants interested in using data, computational methods and analytical approaches to address complex problems and support better decision-making.
Learn more about the Data Science, Analytics and Engineering programme
6. Master of Science in Robotics and Autonomous Systems
The MS in Robotics and Autonomous Systems provides advanced study related to robotics and autonomous technologies.
It is particularly relevant to applicants interested in emerging technologies, intelligent machines, automation and technological systems capable of operating with varying degrees of autonomy.
Learn more about the Robotics and Autonomous Systems programme
7. Master of Science in Civil, Environmental and Sustainable Engineering
This programme provides graduate-level study connected to civil engineering, environmental challenges and sustainability.
It may be especially relevant to applicants interested in developing engineering solutions to infrastructure, environmental and sustainable-development challenges.
Learn more about the Civil, Environmental and Sustainable Engineering programme
8. Master of Science in Clean Energy Systems
The MS in Clean Energy Systems focuses on technologies and systems associated with clean and sustainable energy.
The programme is relevant to applicants who want to contribute to the transition toward more sustainable energy systems and address energy-related challenges.
Learn more about the Clean Energy Systems programme
9. Master of Science in Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use
This programme focuses on modern approaches to energy production and sustainable energy use.
It provides another pathway for applicants interested in energy innovation, sustainability and the development of more effective energy systems.
Learn more about the Modern Energy Production and Sustainable Use programme
What Does the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Cover?
One of the most significant features of this opportunity is the breadth of financial and academic support available to selected scholars.
The scholarship covers several major expenses associated with studying in the United States.
Full Tuition and Required Fees
Selected scholars receive support toward full tuition and required student fees for the programme.
This removes one of the largest financial barriers associated with pursuing a master’s degree at a US university.
Required Books
The scholarship includes support for required books, helping scholars obtain the academic materials needed for their studies.
On-Campus Housing
Selected scholars receive on-campus accommodation.
This is particularly important for international students relocating to Arizona because housing can represent a substantial part of the cost of studying in the United States.
Medical Support
The scholarship provides medical support/healthcare coverage as part of the comprehensive support package.
Visa-Related Costs
The scholarship covers visa application processing costs, helping reduce the financial burden associated with obtaining the necessary visa to study in the United States.
Airfare
The scholarship provides airfare to and from Phoenix, Arizona, supporting scholars with the international travel required to begin and complete their studies.
English Language Test Support
An English language proficiency test voucher may be provided if the applicant is required to take such a test.
ASU Graduate Application Fee Waiver
Applicants who are selected to advance to the stage where they are invited to apply for ASU admission will receive an ASU application fee waiver.
Applicants should therefore not pay an ASU application fee if they have been invited to apply through the scholarship process and provided with the waiver.
Leadership Development and Signature Programming
The scholarship goes beyond traditional financial assistance.
Scholars participate in leadership development and signature programming intended to strengthen their personal, professional and leadership capabilities.
The ASU programme also identifies academic advising, support and leadership development among the elements of the scholarship experience.
Internship and Practical Experience
The current ASU programme information also identifies a two-month internship between the first and second years as part of the scholarship experience.
This practical component can help scholars connect classroom learning with professional experience and develop skills that can be applied after graduation.
Leadership, Mentorship and Community Engagement
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is structured around the idea that higher education should contribute to broader social transformation.
As a result, scholars are expected to engage in leadership development, professional development and community-oriented activities.
The ASU programme places emphasis on developing leaders who can use their education to contribute to economic growth and social development, particularly in Africa.
The wider ASU Mastercard Foundation programme also highlights:
- Leadership development
- Professional development
- Community service
- Academic support
- Peer mentorship
- Transition support
- Career preparation
- Community engagement
- Giving back to communities
- Development of social ventures and impactful initiatives
This means that applicants should not think of the scholarship purely as a financial award. The programme seeks candidates who have demonstrated a commitment to leadership and service and who can articulate how their education will contribute to positive change.
Eligibility Requirements for the 2027 Scholarship
Applicants must satisfy the programme’s eligibility requirements before submitting an application.
1. Bachelor’s Degree Requirement
Applicants must have earned, or be on track to earn, a bachelor’s degree by August 2027 from a recognised institution.
The scholarship specifically states that higher education diplomas, certificates and other non-degree credentials are not considered equivalent to a bachelor’s degree for this requirement.
Applicants who do not hold a bachelor’s degree should therefore not assume that another post-secondary qualification will satisfy the requirement.
2. Strong Academic Record
Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic record equivalent to a minimum:
3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
Applicants should therefore ensure that their academic records clearly demonstrate strong performance.
Because international grading systems differ, applicants should carefully consider how their academic credentials correspond to the stated requirement and provide accurate academic documentation.
3. English Language Proficiency
Applicants must satisfy Arizona State University’s English language proficiency requirements for graduate admission.
Applicants who are required to demonstrate English proficiency should therefore be prepared to provide the relevant evidence.
The scholarship application also indicates that an English language proficiency test voucher may be available if testing is required.
4. African Citizenship
Applicants must be citizens of an African country.
This scholarship is specifically designed as part of ASU’s Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program focused on young African leaders.
The ASU programme describes the current Innovation and Technology scholarship as supporting young African professionals pursuing master’s degrees in technology and innovation.
5. Age Requirement
Applicants must be:
18 to 33 years old on or before September 27, 2026, the scholarship application deadline.
Applicants outside the stated age range should carefully review the official programme guidance before applying.
6. Leadership and Community Service
Applicants must demonstrate a record of:
- Leadership
- Service
- Community engagement
- Commitment to creating positive change
This is an important part of the scholarship because the programme is designed to develop future leaders who will use their education to contribute to their communities.
Applicants should therefore be prepared to demonstrate concrete examples rather than simply stating that they are leaders.
Examples may include community projects, volunteer work, professional initiatives, entrepreneurship, social-impact activities, student leadership, advocacy or other forms of meaningful service.
7. No Previous Graduate or Master’s Degree
Applicants must not have previously enrolled in or completed a graduate or master’s degree programme.
This requirement is important for applicants who already hold postgraduate qualifications.
Applicants with an existing master’s degree should not assume that they are eligible simply because they meet the academic or professional requirements.
8. No Concurrent Graduate Degree
Applicants must not be enrolled in, or begin, another graduate or master’s degree programme while applying for this scholarship.
9. Ability to Relocate to Arizona
Applicants must be able to relocate to Tempe, Arizona, USA, and reside on the ASU campus for the duration of the programme.
Because this is a full-time, on-campus graduate opportunity, applicants should be prepared for an international relocation and the demands of studying in a different academic and cultural environment.
Who Should Consider Applying?
This scholarship is particularly relevant to young African professionals and graduates who want to build advanced expertise in technology, innovation, computing, engineering, data, robotics, sustainable energy or related areas.
Potential applicants may include individuals with backgrounds or interests in areas such as:
- Computer science
- Information technology
- Data science
- Artificial intelligence
- Robotics
- Engineering
- Sustainable engineering
- Clean energy
- Energy systems
- Technology and development
- Intelligent systems
- Digital innovation
- Technology-enabled development
- Sustainable technology
However, applicants should not select a programme solely because it is covered by the scholarship. They should ensure that their academic background, interests, career objectives and future plans align with the requirements of the particular master’s programme.
Women, Refugees, Displaced Persons and People with Disabilities
The programme explicitly encourages women, refugees and displaced persons, and people with disabilities to apply.
This is consistent with the broader emphasis of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program on expanding access to higher education and supporting talented young people who may face barriers to educational opportunity.
Eligible applicants from these groups should therefore not be discouraged from applying because of their background.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the 2027–2028 Innovation and Technology Scholarship is:
Sunday, September 27, 2026, at 23:59 GMT.
Applications submitted after the stated deadline will not be considered.
Applicants should avoid waiting until the final hours to submit. Technical problems, incomplete documents, internet connectivity issues or errors in application information can create unnecessary risks close to the deadline.
Important: Apply for the Scholarship Before Applying to ASU
One of the most important instructions in the application process is that applicants should first complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program scholarship application.
Applicants should not independently apply for admission to Arizona State University or to one of the graduate degree programmes unless instructed to do so by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team.
This distinction is important.
Being interested in an ASU master’s programme does not mean that applicants should immediately submit a separate paid graduate admission application.
According to the application guidance, candidates who advance in the scholarship selection process will be invited to an interview and will receive guidance concerning the ASU admission process.
Applicants who are subsequently invited to apply for ASU admission will receive an application fee waiver and should not pay an application fee.
Admission to ASU Does Not Automatically Mean Scholarship Selection
Applicants should also understand that admission to an academic programme and receiving the Mastercard Foundation scholarship are not the same thing.
The application information makes clear that admission to the academic programme does not guarantee that an applicant will receive the scholarship.
Therefore, applicants need to approach both aspects carefully:
- Meet the scholarship eligibility requirements.
- Submit a strong scholarship application.
- Demonstrate academic excellence and leadership.
- Progress through the scholarship selection process if shortlisted.
- Follow the instructions provided by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team regarding ASU admission.
Application Process
Applicants are encouraged to complete the scholarship application online.
The application process begins through the programme’s application system, where applicants can proceed by selecting NEXT at the bottom of the application page.
The programme also provides an alternative application route for applicants with limited internet access.
Online Application
Applicants with reliable internet access are encouraged to complete and submit the application online.
Before submitting, applicants should carefully check:
- Personal information
- Academic information
- Eligibility responses
- Leadership and service information
- Supporting information
- Uploaded documents
- Contact information
Once the application is submitted, it is considered final.
Alternative PDF Application for Applicants With Limited Internet Access
Applicants who have limited internet access can use the PDF version of the application form.
The programme provides a downloadable PDF form for this purpose.
Applicants using the PDF option should not request editing access to the online document.
The completed application and required supporting documents should be submitted in PDF format to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team.
The listed supporting materials include:
- CV or résumé
- Letter of recommendation
- Transcripts
Applicants should ensure that documents are clear, complete and properly attached before submission.
Application Documents
Applicants should prepare their supporting materials in advance rather than waiting until the application deadline.
CV or Résumé
The CV should present the applicant’s academic, professional, leadership, service and other relevant experiences clearly.
Because leadership and community engagement are important parts of the scholarship, applicants should make relevant activities visible rather than presenting only academic qualifications.
Academic Transcripts
Applicants should prepare their academic transcripts and ensure that the academic information provided in the application is accurate.
The academic record should demonstrate the required level of achievement.
Recommendation Letter
Applicants using the alternative PDF application route are required to provide a letter of recommendation.
Applicants should select a recommender who can provide meaningful information about their abilities, character, leadership, academic potential or commitment to service.
English Language Evidence
Where required, applicants should be prepared to satisfy ASU’s English language proficiency requirements.
The scholarship information indicates that an English language proficiency test voucher may be provided if testing is required.
How to Strengthen Your Application
Because this is a competitive scholarship with a limited number of opportunities, applicants should focus on demonstrating more than academic eligibility.
Demonstrate Your Leadership With Evidence
Do not simply describe yourself as a leader.
Explain:
- What problem did you identify?
- What did you do?
- Who benefited?
- What was your role?
- What changed as a result?
- What did you learn?
- How did the experience influence your future goals?
Concrete examples are generally more convincing than broad claims.
Connect Technology to Social or Economic Impact
The scholarship is specifically focused on innovation and technology.
Applicants should therefore be able to explain how their chosen field can contribute to meaningful development.
For example, applicants might discuss how technology can contribute to:
- Education
- Healthcare
- Agriculture
- Financial inclusion
- Energy access
- Climate resilience
- Public services
- Employment
- Entrepreneurship
- Infrastructure
- Digital transformation
The strongest applications should show a connection between the applicant’s academic interests, professional goals and broader community impact.
Explain Why the Specific Master’s Programme Matters
Applicants should research the programme they intend to pursue.
Rather than simply stating that they want to study technology, applicants should understand the specific degree they are interested in and explain how it fits into their long-term goals.
Demonstrate Commitment to Africa
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU places significant emphasis on preparing scholars to contribute to economic and social development in Africa.
Applicants should therefore think carefully about how the knowledge and skills gained at ASU can contribute to their communities, countries or the wider African continent.
What Happens After the Initial Application?
Applicants should understand that submission is not necessarily the end of the selection process.
Candidates who are selected to advance may be:
- Invited to an interview.
- Given further guidance regarding the ASU graduate admission process.
- Provided with an ASU application fee waiver if instructed to apply.
- Evaluated through the subsequent stages of the scholarship and admission process.
Applicants should therefore monitor the contact information provided in their application and respond promptly to communications from the programme team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this scholarship fully funded?
The programme describes the Innovation and Technology Scholarship as a fully funded graduate opportunity. The scholarship includes tuition and fees, on-campus housing and books, visa, airfare and medical expenses, along with leadership development and other programme support.
How many scholarships are available?
The 2027–2028 application cycle offers 30 graduate study opportunities.
Who can apply?
The scholarship is intended for eligible citizens of African countries who meet the academic, age, leadership, educational and other programme requirements.
Can someone who already has a master’s degree apply?
According to the stated eligibility requirements, applicants must not have previously enrolled in or completed a graduate or master’s degree programme.
Is the programme online?
No. The scholarship supports full-time, on-campus graduate study at Arizona State University’s Tempe campus.
Do applicants need a bachelor’s degree?
Yes. Applicants must have earned a bachelor’s degree by August 2027 from a recognised institution.
What GPA is required?
Applicants must demonstrate an academic record equivalent to at least 3.5 on a 4.0 GPA scale.
Is there an age requirement?
Yes. Applicants must be between 18 and 33 years old on or before the application deadline.
Can I apply directly to ASU before applying for the scholarship?
Applicants should not apply independently to ASU or to a graduate programme unless instructed to do so by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team.
Does ASU admission guarantee the scholarship?
No. Admission to an academic programme does not guarantee receipt of the scholarship.
When is the deadline?
The deadline is Sunday, September 27, 2026, at 23:59 GMT.
Click HERE to view the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document.
Application and Official Information
Applicants should begin with the official Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program information for Arizona State University and carefully review the programme’s current guidance before submitting an application.
Applicants should also review the official information concerning the relevant ASU master’s programme before making decisions about their preferred field of study.
Final Application Checklist
Before submitting the application, prospective applicants should confirm that they:
- Hold or will hold a recognised bachelor’s degree by August 2027.
- Meet the minimum academic requirement of 3.5/4.0 or equivalent.
- Meet the English language requirements applicable to graduate admission.
- Are citizens of an African country.
- Are between 18 and 33 years old on or before the application deadline.
- Have demonstrated leadership and community service.
- Have not previously enrolled in or completed a graduate or master’s degree.
- Are not enrolled in or beginning another master’s or graduate programme while applying.
- Can relocate to Tempe, Arizona.
- Have prepared an accurate CV or résumé.
- Have their academic transcripts available.
- Have prepared the required recommendation letter.
- Have carefully reviewed the application guidance.
- Have checked all information before submitting.
- Submit the completed application before September 27, 2026, at 23:59 GMT.
Visit HERE to learn more about the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Arizona State University.
Conclusion
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Innovation and Technology Scholarship at Arizona State University provides a significant opportunity for talented young Africans to pursue advanced graduate education in technology, innovation, computing, engineering, data science, robotics, sustainable energy and related fields.
What makes the opportunity particularly valuable is that it combines comprehensive financial support with leadership development, academic guidance, professional development, mentorship, community engagement and practical experience. The programme is designed not only to help scholars earn a master’s degree but also to prepare them to use their knowledge and leadership capabilities to contribute to positive social and economic change.
For eligible African applicants with a strong academic record, demonstrated leadership, a commitment to community impact and a clear interest in technology or innovation, this scholarship can provide a pathway to graduate education at Arizona State University without the normal financial burden associated with studying in the United States.
The deadline is September 27, 2026, at 23:59 GMT. Applicants should begin preparing early, carefully review the eligibility requirements and application instructions, and ensure that every piece of information submitted is complete and accurate.
Most importantly, prospective applicants should remember that the scholarship application comes first. Applicants should not independently submit an ASU graduate admission application unless they are instructed to do so by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team.
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