The University of Oxford, located in historic Oxford, England, is one of the most renowned higher education institutions in the world. It combines rich traditions with cutting-edge research and academic rigor, fostering an environment that attracts exceptional students and faculty from around the world. the globe. As the oldest university in the English-speaking world, Oxford has played a central role in education, innovation and cultural leadership for centuries.
Research is at the heart of Oxford’s mission, driving progress that addresses some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The university’s extensive research facilities and partnerships with industry, government and not-for-profit organizations enable Oxford to make pioneering discoveries in diverse fields. Initiatives in health, climate science, technology and policy have led to transformative solutions with global impact, including the development of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. Oxford’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility underlines its commitment to driving positive change for future generations.
Description of the scholarship:
- Host university: University of Oxford
- Host country: United Kingdom;
- Level of study: Master level;
- Type of scholarship: Full financing;
- Scholarship value: Check the details below;
- Eligible countries: International students;
- Proposed majors: Health sciences, food sciences, governance, public policies, entrepreneurship, sustainable water and energy systems;
- Application deadline: January 29th2025.
Are you a passionate African student with a vision to create positive change in your community? The University of Oxford Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program offers an incredible opportunity for young African leaders to pursue a fully-funded master’s degree. This initiative, in collaboration with the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx), is committed to empowering 400 emerging leaders from Africa to make transformative contributions in their countries and beyond. The program is designed not only to support academic excellence, but also to foster leadership and social impact that align with Africa’s development goals.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program at Oxford provides comprehensive support to African students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential and a deep commitment to the development of Africa. This prestigious scholarship covers the full range of educational and logistical expenses, ensuring that financial barriers do not pose an obstacle for scholars who wish to realize their dreams.
Scholarship Benefits:
The scholarship package includes:
- Full tuition coverage: Covers the full cost of the master’s program at Oxford.
- Living expenses: A generous stipend to cover all living expenses for the duration of the program.
- Return flight: A return ticket from the researcher’s home country to the United Kingdom.
- Health supplement for visa and immigration: Student visa fees and UK Health Supplement are fully funded.
- Installation Allowance: Financial support to help cover initial expenses on arrival in the UK.
- Thrive Fund: A dedicated fund that provides financial assistance for emergency needs.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program at Oxford is more than just a scholarship: it is a transformative experience that develops leadership skills, social impact initiatives and a deep connection to the needs and challenges of the African continent. Key elements of the program include:
- Leadership and Impact Program: Scholars engage in an intensive leadership program that emphasizes collaborative leadership skills. This program is designed to enable scholars to address the complex social, economic and environmental challenges affecting Africa and the world at large.
- Ubuntu Service Period: After graduating, scholars commit to a period of service in Africa. They work with leading organizations to engage in impactful projects that promote development, community resilience and sustainable growth across the continent. This period of service reflects the program’s commitment to giving back and ensures that scholars apply their skills in meaningful ways within their communities.
- AfOx Alumni Network: Graduates become part of the Africa Oxford Initiative Alumni Network, an invaluable resource that provides long-term support, mentoring and career guidance. This network facilitates collaboration among African leaders in diverse fields, fostering a community of support that amplifies each researcher’s potential to make a lasting impact in Africa.
Eligibility requirements
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program seeks African students who demonstrate not only academic excellence, but also strong alignment with AfOx values and a commitment to contributing to Africa’s development. Here are the main eligibility criteria:
- Academic excellence: Applicants must have a proven academic record that reflects high achievement and potential for success in their chosen field.
- Leadership potential: Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to leadership and social change, ideally with prior involvement in initiatives that benefit their communities.
- Alignment with AfOx values and themes: Applicants should resonate with AfOx themes including inclusiveness, development and resilience.
- Commitment to African development: The program prioritizes applicants who demonstrate a genuine commitment to Africa’s development, with the intention of contributing to social, economic and environmental progress on the continent.
To promote diversity, the program also places special emphasis on underrepresented groups, including:
- Scholarly women: Encourage the participation of women in higher education and leadership.
- Refugees and displaced people: Offer displaced people the opportunity to continue their studies and contribute to the reconstruction of society.
- Researchers with accessibility needs: Ensure that academics with disabilities have equal access to education and support.
Application process
The application process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Oxford involves several stages, ensuring that qualified applicants have ample opportunity to demonstrate their eligibility and potential. Here’s how to apply:
- Submit your application for graduate studies: Interested candidates should first apply for a master’s program at the University of Oxford via the Graduate Admissions Portal. It is essential to respect the specific deadlines associated with each program, which generally extend from November 15, 2024 to January 29, 2025.
- Scholarship pre-selection and interview: Eligible applicants who meet the scholarship criteria will be contacted by the Oxford Fees and Student Funding Office for an interview. These interviews are held virtually and provide candidates with the opportunity to discuss their goals, commitment to African development, and alignment with the scholarship’s mission.
- Receive a scholarship offer: Successful applicants will be notified by July 2025. Those selected will receive a comprehensive scholarship program, allowing them to fully concentrate on their studies and leadership development.
Application timetable for 2025/26
To help applicants stay organized, here is a calendar of key dates for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars program at Oxford:
- Submission of application: November 2024 – January 2025
- AfOx Fellowship Interviews: February – April 2025
- Scholarship decisions announced: July 2025
Official website:
For more details, please visit the official website of the university: https://www.afox.ox.ac.uk/mastercard-foundation-scholars-program-university-oxford
