Just imagine being a promising, ambitious student with lofty aspirations — and no money to pursue them. That’s where UC Berkeley’s Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program comes in. This is more than just a scholarship, for students from Sub-Saharan Africa wanting to make a tangible impact as citizens of the world, it also provides a life changing opportunity.
This program at UC Berkeley—one of the world’s leading public universities—alongside getting a world-class education, helps students become leaders, innovators, and changemakers. It pays for tuition, living expenses, internships, and leadership development. The goal? Aiding youths who are ready to give back and rebuild a new Africa.
If you’ve ever wanted to know what this program is and why it works, this post explains it all — and hopefully gets you feeling inspired to pursue it, too.
Table of contents
- About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley
- Why should you go for UC Berkeley MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program?
- UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Eligibility Requirements
- What are the Fields of Study for at UC Berkeley?
- What can I expect at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley?
- Steps to Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for Studies at UC Berkeley
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
- References
- Recommendations
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley
This is a scholarship is totally tailored towards granting potential young scholars like you the ability to study efficiently. This scholarship is primarily targeted at talented scholars who however, do not have the needed amount to purchase a very high class education.
The benefactors of this scholarship have a goal in mind and what is that? To largely produce world leaders who will in turn cause a very big advantageous change that will transform their societies and the world at large
The benefactor this program also go as far as supporting their students with academic and career counseling.
You really need to understand that these people are not just giving you a chance at education but also forging in you that perfect leader who will ultimately join transform the word.
You should read: Top Canada MBA Scholarships
Why should you go for UC Berkeley MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program?
If you’re a student from Sub-Saharan Africa with big dreams, strong academic potential, and a heart for change, the UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program could be a life-changing opportunity.
This program isn’t just about covering tuition—it’s about unlocking your full potential. UC Berkeley is one of the world’s top public universities, offering access to incredible faculty, cutting-edge research, and a global network of thinkers and doers. But what makes this program special is how it’s designed to support you every step of the way.
From the moment you’re accepted, you become part of a supportive community that values not just what you know, but what you stand for. The scholarship covers your full tuition, living expenses, and even things like travel and books, so you can focus completely on your studies and personal growth.
Beyond academics, the program offers leadership training, mentorship, and access to internships that can shape your future career. You’ll also be surrounded by other young leaders from across Africa, each with their own vision for change. It’s an inspiring, empowering environment that encourages you to dream bigger and do more.
Most importantly, the program believes in giving back. Scholars are encouraged to use their knowledge and experiences to contribute to the development of their communities back home. So if you’re passionate about creating impact, and you’re looking for a chance to grow on both a personal and professional level, this program could be exactly what you’ve been waiting for.
You should read: Top Graduate Program Scholarships
UC Berkeley Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Eligibility Requirements
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley provides a life-changing opportunity for students from Sub-Saharan Africa. The eligibility criteria for applicants include:
Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of a Sub-Saharan African country, including refugees and other displaced persons within the continent. Not eligible if dual citizen or in US, Canada, UK or EU as asylee, refugee, or permanent resident.
Academic Excellence: Candidates must first be accepted into a UC Berkeley master’s degree program, and should have demonstrated strong academic performance.
Leadership potential: Candidates should be passionate about developing transformational leadership skills that can be put to use to create sustainable positive change.
Financial Need: Applicants who have overcome significant financial barriers to attending post-secondary courses are preferred.
Commitment to Community: Applicants must demonstrate that they give back to their community, country, or continent through activities outside of a classroom environment.
Intention to Return: Candidates should demonstrate the desire and intention to return to their home country to apply their knowledge and skills upon completion of their studies.
You should read: UCA Foundation Scholarships: How to Apply
What are the Fields of Study for at UC Berkeley?
Currently, UC Berkeley educates its students in a diverse area of study. Scholars can pursue degrees in areas like:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Public Health
- Business
- Social Sciences
- Environmental Science
- Education
- Law
- Development Studies
It really does not matter if you want to join the social justice field or even STEM. UC Berkeley is totally up to the task of giving to you the necessary things you need.
You should read: Masters Degree Scholarship Program In South Korea
What can I expect at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley provides exemplary academically talented African students pursuing master’s degrees with a transformative experience. Here’s what you can expect:
Comprehensive Support
The program covers 100 percent of all finances, including:
-Tuition and fees
-Living expenses (housing, meals, etc.
-Books and academic material
-International airfares to and from your home country
-Health insurance
-Visa and SEVIS fees
-Leadership and entrepreneurship training
Read also: Top 8 Highest Paying Internships | 2025 Update
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, you must:
Have prior residence in an African country (and are refugees or internally displaced persons in Africa)
Be accepted into a master’s degree program at UC Berkeley (doctoral programs are ineligible)
Show evidence of leadership potential and commitment to community development
Have experienced challenges accessing higher education
Students will also need to demonstrate that they intend to return to their home countries after they complete their studies (often referred to as non-immigrant intent); ie: resident abroad – must intend to return to your home country after completing your studies.
Read: The Importance of Mentorship in Career Growths
Application Process
– Graduate School: Apply to UC Berkeley – Submit your application for a master s level program through the general admissions proces.
Supplemental Application: If your program nominates you, you’re invited to complete a supplemental application for the Scholars Progrm.
Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview.
Visit the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley website for more information.
You should read: Top Graduate Program Scholarships
Steps to Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for Studies at UC Berkeley
It takes several steps to access the this program. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Step 1: Research the Program
To get information about the scope of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, its role, and responsibilities, visit its official page.
Tip: It’s also important that you check all the requirements to be fulfilled before continuing to the next level.
Step 2: The application process to UC Berkeley.
To get the best of the program in a very easy way, ensure you must have been given admission to study a degree of your choice at UC Berkeley. You must apply for admission before you proceed to the next level
For undergraduate programs, apply through the UC Application portal.
(http://apply.universityofcalifornia.edu/).
the UC Berkeley Graduate Admissions website
(https://grad.berkeley.edu/admissions/apply/)
Note: Do not rush while applying for UC Berkeley because getting admission is very competitive. So take your time to prepare something strong.
Step 3: Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application
After you have been given admission, the next step is to attend to your application for the program
- A personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of financial need
You are going to need documents that will prove your citizenship status in a Sub-Saharan African country
You are free to check here for details (https://mcfscholarsprogram.berkeley.edu/)
Step 4: You need to be ready for the Interview
Interviews are a major stage in acquiring this scholarship. It is a way of them fully recognizing your after you have been shortlisted for the scholarship. This interview part is where you have to give it your all and really prove to them that you really want to be a game changer in the society
You should know some Important Dates and Deadlines
Here are the key dates to keep in mind:
UC Berkeley Undergraduate Application Deadline: The filing period is from October 1 to December 2. Your application should be submitted by December 2.
UC Berkeley Graduate Program Deadline: Registration for the programs begins on December 1st, 2024, and ends on January 15th, 2025.
Check the [official website](https://mcfscholarsprogram.berkeley.edu/) for the updated information.
Tip: Begin your application process as early as possible to avoid missing some dates.
You should read: Mastering the Scholarship Interview: Tips and Tricks
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a completely sponsored scholarship program open to students from Sub-Saharan Africa who excelled academically, are leaders in their respective schools and communities, or are economically vulnerable.
This scholarship is made only for citizens who hail from Sub-Saharan Africa
This scholarship is sure to cover your tuition, living accomodations and even health insurance. It covers your travels as well.
Yes it is competitive. That is why you need to give it all your best
Conclusion
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UC Berkeley remains a golden opportunity for you to achieve your academic dreams. Remember it is for young academic sound youngsters who crave for a change in the society. Be sure to fit in in the eligibility section and then your are free to begin your application process. Goodluck!
You should read: Best Canadian Scholarships For Nigerian Students
References
Recommendations
- Top Graduate Program Scholarships
- UCA Foundation Scholarships: How to Apply
- Masters Degree Scholarship Program In South Korea
- Top Canada MBA Scholarships
