
The Sciences Po MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2025 in France is now open. MasterCard offers full scholarships to exceptional students from Sub-Saharan Africa. Designed to nurture future leaders, this program provides financial support covering tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and a monthly stipend. Scholars also gain access to career services, internships, and networking opportunities. The scholarship is aimed at students pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies at Sciences Po, one of Europe’s leading universities, fostering global talent and leadership from diverse African backgrounds.
The Sciences Po MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2025 promotes academic excellence and leadership development. Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and a commitment to giving back to their communities. Eligible students from Sub-Saharan Africa can apply for both undergraduate and graduate programs at Sciences Po. The scholarship fosters cross-cultural understanding and equips scholars with the skills needed to tackle global challenges, making it an excellent opportunity for African students aspiring to effect positive change.
To apply for the Sciences Po MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2025, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being a resident of Sub-Saharan Africa and displaying financial need. The application process involves submitting academic transcripts, a personal statement, and recommendation letters. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: France
- Host University: Sciences Po
- Funded By: MasterCard Foundation
- Study Level: Master’s
- Eligibility: Students from Sub-Saharan Africa
- Deadline:
- Application Platform Opens: September 2024.
- Application Deadline: December 1, 2024.
- Admissions Decisions Released: Mid-February 2025.
- Scholarship Allocation Decisions Released: From March 2025.
- Master’s Programs Begin: End of August 2025.
Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Stipend for living expenses
- Travel support to and from France
- Leadership workshops and networking
- Pre-departure support and tailored assistance upon arrival
- Official welcome program for integration in the first few weeks
- Reserved housing in Paris for scholars
- Personalized academic and social support throughout studies
- Career guidance, job fairs, and internship opportunities in Africa
- Mentoring program with the Sciences Po Alumni Africa Division
- Access to general student resources and support systems
Eligibility Criteria for Sciences Po MasterCard Foundation Scholarship
- Hold citizenship in a Sub-Saharan African country (dual citizenship with European Economic Area countries makes candidates ineligible)
- Must have completed or be enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree at one of Sciences Po’s partner institutions
- Alternatively, must have participated in a foundation or mentoring program with a Mastercard Foundation partner.
- Demonstrate genuine financial need with supporting documents.
- Show commitment to driving change in Africa, especially in public policy, politics, or societal transitions.
- Be under 35 at the start of the Master’s program.
- Must not already hold or be completing a Master’s degree
- Must apply for a two-year Master’s program at one of Sciences Po’s Graduate Schools (not eligible for one-year, dual, or joint programs)
Required Documents
- Completed application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of Sub-Saharan African citizenship
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Financial need documentation
- Personal statement on leadership and commitment to Africa
- Two recommendation letters
- Proof of Bachelor’s degree from a partner institution
- Valid passport or ID
- Language proficiency test (if required)
How to apply for Sciences Po MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2025?
- Visit the official Sciences Po website for the scholarship details.
- Create an account on the application platform.
- Complete the online application form, providing accurate information.
- Upload required documents, including transcripts, financial need proof, and recommendation letters.
- Write and submit a personal statement detailing your leadership experience and commitment to Africa.
- Ensure all sections are filled out correctly and review your application before submission.
- Submit the application by the deadline (December 1, 2024).
- Await further instructions regarding interviews and admission decisions.
For more information about Sciences Po MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program, kindly visit the official website.