Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Oxford
Eligible Degree
One-year, taught Master’s degree at the University of Oxford in fields related to pandemic preparedness and recovery
Brief Overview
Partnership between the Mastercard Foundation, University of Oxford, and the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx) to support 400 African scholars
Provides fully funded Master’s degrees focused on developing African leaders with skills in critical areas such as health, governance, and sustainable development
Part of the AfOx Graduate Scholars Program, rooted in shared values of collegiality, empathy, and community
Details of the Scholarship
Covers tuition fees, living expenses, economy return flight, visa and Immigration Health Surcharge fees, settling-in allowance, and emergency support via the Thrive Fund
Includes a Leadership and Impact Program to develop cross-sector solutions for social and environmental issues
Eligibility Requirements
Open to African students passionate about contributing to their communities and addressing pressing challenges in Africa
Priority for groups historically underrepresented in higher education, including women, refugees, and scholars with disabilities
Successful applicants must demonstrate academic merit, leadership potential, alignment with AfOx values, and a commitment to Africa’s development
Scholarship Values
Fully funded scholarship covering:
Tuition fees
Living expenses at UKRI minimum doctoral stipend rate
Economy return flight and visa fees
Settling-in allowance and access to a Thrive Fund for emergencies
Includes placement support and mentorship for post-study engagement through the “Ubuntu period of service”
Required Documents
Graduate application form for the relevant Master’s course
Supporting documents as outlined in Oxford’s Application Guide
How to Apply for the Scholarship
Submit an application for graduate study at the University of Oxford by the relevant December/January deadline for the chosen course.
Eligible candidates will receive an email invitation to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and may be invited for a virtual interview.
Application deadlines vary by course; consult Oxford’s admissions page to confirm the exact date.
Selection Process and Important Dates
Application Deadlines:
15th November 2024: some courses
3rd December 2024: Medical Sciences and others
7th January 2025: Humanities courses
8th January 2025: Mathematical, Physical, and Life Sciences and Medical Sciences
9th January 2025: some Social Sciences courses
28th January 2025: Other Social Sciences courses
29th January 2025: Continuing Education, Law, and remaining courses
February – April 2025: Eligible candidates receive interview invitations
By July 2025: Selected scholars are notified and provided with arrival and induction details
