🌍 Dreaming Big but Stuck on Funding? For many young African graduates, the biggest hurdle isn’t talent — it’s finance. Fully funded scholarships that reward academic excellence, nurture leadership, and create real community impact are rare… and fiercely competitive.
✨ One of the most prestigious opportunities for Fall 2026–2027 is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the American University of Beirut (AUB) — a life-changing chance to study, grow, and make a difference.
This program offers fully funded Master’s and PhD opportunities, with two study options:
On-Campus Graduate Scholarship (Study in Lebanon)
Online Graduate Scholarship (Study from your home country)
If you are under 35, academically strong, and committed to community development, this opportunity deserves serious attention.
Official program page:
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program partners with leading universities to support academically talented but economically disadvantaged students — particularly from Africa.
But this is more than just a tuition scholarship.
The program focuses on:
• Leadership development
• Civic engagement
• Mentorship
• Professional skills training
• Community service
• Networking opportunities
• Scholars are expected to become long-term change-makers in their communities and countries after graduation.
This leadership focus is what makes the program highly competitive.
Also Check:
1️⃣ On-Campus Graduate Scholarship (Study in Lebanon)
This option allows scholars to study physically at AUB in Beirut.
Who Can Apply?
On-Campus Master’s Scholarships
Eligible applicants:
• Citizens of African countries
• Citizens of Lebanon
• Refugees living in Lebanon or in African countries
PhD Scholarships (On-Campus Only)
• Citizens of African countries
• Refugees living in African countries
Online Master’s Scholarships
Eligible applicants:
Citizens of countries on the African continent.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
• Be 35 years or younger
• Have strong academic performance
• Demonstrate financial need
• Show leadership potential
• Commit to additional Scholars Program activities
• Meet English proficiency (RUSE) by May 31, 2026
Accepted English tests:
AUB-EN
TOEFL iBT
IELTS (Academic)
GRE (Verbal)
GMAT (Verbal)
Duolingo English Test
Application Deadline
March 12, 2026
Official Application Link
Graduate Application Portal:
After submitting:
1. Select “Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program” under Financial Opportunities.
2. (Master’s only) Complete the AUB Financial Aid Application.
Official on-campus scholarship page: https://www.aub.edu.lb/mcf/Pages/Graduate.aspx
2️⃣ Online Graduate Scholarship (Study from Home)
This option is ideal for students who prefer flexible, remote learning.
Who Can Apply?
Citizens of countries on the African continent.
Available Online Programs
The scholarship is available for five online master’s programs:
1. Master’s in Engineering Management (Online)
2. Master’s in Computing in Education (Online)
3. Master's in Business Administration (Online)
4. Master in Nursing Adminstration and Management (Online)
5. Executive Master in Healthcare Leadership (Online)
Take Note: Each program may have additional requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
• Be 35 years or younger
• Have strong academic standing
• Demonstrate financial need
• Show leadership and community engagement
• Submit English proficiency (RUSE) by June 30, 2026
Accepted tests:
TOEFL iBT
IELTS (Academic)
GRE (Verbal)
GMAT (Verbal)
Duolingo English Test
Application Deadline
May 18, 2026
Official Application Link
Graduate Application Portal:
Official online scholarship page:
Online programs overview:
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
Although benefits may vary slightly by program, scholars typically receive:
• Full tuition coverage
• Study materials support
• Living stipend (for on-campus scholars)
• Leadership training
Mentorship
• Community engagement opportunities
Bear in mind: This is a comprehensive development program — not just financial aid.
Required Documents (Prepare Early)
While specific requirements may vary by department, applicants should prepare:
• Academic transcripts
• Bachelor’s degree certificate
• English proficiency test results
• CV or résumé
• Statement of purpose
• Recommendation letters
Remember: Financial Aid Application (for on-campus Master’s applicants)
Preparing these documents early improves your chances.
Why This Scholarship Is Highly Competitive
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program selects students who demonstrate:
• Academic excellence
• Leadership capacity
• Financial need
• Strong commitment to social impact
Kindly Note: Thousands of applicants compete for limited slots each year.
To stand out:
• Prepare your English test early
• Write a strong statement of purpose
• Clearly show community involvement
• Apply well before the deadline
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Final Thoughts
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarships at the American University of Beirut represent one of the most impactful fully funded graduate opportunities available to African students in 2026.
Whether you prefer studying in Lebanon or pursuing an online master’s degree from home, this program provides funding, mentorship, and leadership development designed to create long-term change-makers.
If you meet the criteria, start preparing now. Competitive scholarships reward early and well-prepared applicants.