What does the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program cover?

The Mastercard Foundation scholarship is a comprehensive 100% full ride grant covering all tuition, room, board, travel, and personal expenses.

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: The Complete Guide for Ethiopian Students

A definitive guide on securing a 100% full ride Mastercard Foundation scholarship at Toronto, Edinburgh, ALU, or Ashesi from Ethiopia.

1. What Is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is the largest and most generous comprehensive undergraduate scholarship in the world for African young leaders. It provides 100% full funding: full tuition fees, on campus housing, food, textbooks, laptop, comprehensive medical insurance, annual living stipends, and round trip flights between Addis Ababa and your host university.

2. Top University Partners for Ethiopian High School Students

Ethiopian students can apply directly through several accredited partner universities:

1. University of Toronto (Canada): Top research institution in North America. Deadlines typically fall between December and mid January. 2. University of Edinburgh (United Kingdom): Renowned Scottish university with strong programs in climate, health, and engineering. Deadline late January. 3. Ashesi University (Ghana): Leading private institution specializing in computer science, business administration, and engineering. 4. African Leadership University (Rwanda): Innovative project based entrepreneurship and software engineering degree programs.

3. What Ethiopian Grades and Documents Are Required?

Applicants must demonstrate exceptional academic achievement in the Ethiopian curriculum (typically an average of 85% or higher across Grades 9 to 12), a verified economic barrier to paying international tuition, and active community engagement or peer leadership in Ethiopia. Official stamped high school transcripts and two teacher recommendation letters are essential.