Mastercard & Oxford University Announce Scholarships for Students; How to Apply

The Mastercard Foundation, in partnership with the University of Oxford, has announced a new round of funded scholarships for aspiring African students.

The initiative, under the Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarship Programme for the 2026/2027 academic year, aims to support talented individuals in pursuing graduate studies at the University of Oxford.

The partnership also includes the Saïd Business School Foundation.

“Mastercard Foundation AfOx Graduate Scholarships are available for applicants who are African nationals, are ordinarily resident in African countries, and who can demonstrate a commitment to Africa’s development,” read part of the announcement.

The scholarships will cover course fees and provide a living expenses grant, along with customised training programs, networking opportunities, and comprehensive support for students before, during, and after their time at Oxford.

The scholarship includes full course fees and a living expenses grant of at least Ksh 3,850,000 (£20,780).

Eligibility Criteria for Mastercard & Oxford University Scholarship

• Nationality:
  You must be a citizen of an African country and demonstrate a clear commitment to the continent’s development.
• Academic Qualifications:
  You must meet the entry requirements for the MBA program at the University of Oxford, including academic excellence and a strong undergraduate record.
• Leadership and Impact:
  Preference is given to students who have shown leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, or a record of community impact.
• Financial Need:
  The scholarship is intended for candidates who can demonstrate genuine financial need.

How to Apply

Apply for the Oxford program via the University of Oxford’s online portal (Saïd Business School Application Portal).

To apply for the Oxford MBA program, you must complete an online application form.

You are required to upload a one-page CV or résumé that outlines your full-time work experience.

Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English as a language. Other important steps in the process include:

• Submitting your MBA application by the specified deadline
• Indicating your interest in the Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarship in the relevant section of the application form.
• If shortlisted, you may be contacted for additional documentation or interviews by AfOx or the Mastercard Foundation.

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Eligible offer holders will be automatically considered for the scholarship and contacted by the Student Fees and Funding Office via email. Those who qualify will be invited to provide evidence demonstrating how they meet the selection criteria.

The selection panel evaluates candidates based on four key areas:

• Academic merit and potential
• Leadership experience and capacity for growth
• Alignment with AfOx values and thematic focus
• Commitment to Africa’s development

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Overview of Programme

In the first year, scholars will undertake a challenging academic master’s program at the University of Oxford, combined with a Leadership and Impact Programme.

Upon completion of their master’s studies, scholars will participate in a 4–6-month Ubuntu Period of Service.

During this phase, they will be placed in prominent Africa-based organisations, where they will contribute to impactful initiatives across the continent.

The scholars will also benefit from mentorship by experienced African academics and practitioners, helping them shape purposeful and transformative career paths focused on Africa’s development.

During this second year of the Program, the Scholars will be supported and encouraged to design and deliver impactful projects based on African organisations, which could include launching start-ups and working in multinational development agencies, governments, NGOs or research institutions.

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