The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at University of Berkeley will provide all-inclusive support ( financial, academic, social and career opportunities) to 113 students from Sub Saharan Africa from 2012-2020. UC Berkeley will receive a $30 million endowment funds for its admitted scholars
Eligible Fields
Bachelors and Masters Courses offered at the institution.
Selection Criteria
A citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country – If you have refugee status, are stateless, or have other questions regarding your citizenship, you may still be eligible. Please contact us directly to clarify. This scholarship is not intended for citizens of North African countries.
Impressive academics – All prospective Scholars must first be admitted to UC Berkeley to be considered for the Scholarship. An important criteria for admission to the University is demonstrated academic excellence.
Economically disadvantaged – We aim to admit those from the bottom two income quintiles per country. This Scholarship is designed for those extremely talented individuals who have no other means of acquiring the further education required to help realize their dreams and ambitions.
Demonstrated will to give back to your community, country, or continent – We are looking for well-rounded students who are engaged in activities beyond the classroom. Some may be directly related to your field of study, but this may also include other issues (social, economic, political) that you are working on and passionate about. Applicants should elaborate on their achievements both in their application to UC Berkeley, and then later on the Scholarship application.
A well expressed desire and intention to return to your home country after completing your studies – We are looking for students who are engaged with and passionate about issues affecting their communities, and who will take advantage of their education at UC Berkeley to better equip themselves with the knowledge and training to address these issues upon return. While important work can be done from abroad, the intention of this Program is to enable Scholars to return home, after forming valuable professional connections through internship and job placements.
Deadline
For undergraduate:30th November
For masters: Graduate application deadlines vary by program (falls between December and January).
How to Apply
Both undergraduate and graduate degree seekers must first be admitted to the university through the regular admissions process before they will be considered for the MasterCard Foundation Scholarship Program. The Office of Undergraduate Admissions and the Graduate Division provide detailed information on the admissions process for international students.