The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Ashesi University in Ghana is one of Africa’s most comprehensive undergraduate scholarships. Launched in 2012, it gives talented African students the chance to study at Ashesi University in Berekuso, Ghana, without worrying about the cost of tuition, accommodation, or living.
For an African applicant with strong grades, real leadership potential, and genuine financial need, this is a rare full-cost opportunity. The program does more than pay the bills — it surrounds scholars with socio-economic support designed to help them settle into university life and move smoothly into meaningful careers afterwards.
Scholars also join a wide community: Ashesi’s alumni network spanning more than 40 countries and the broader Mastercard Foundation Scholars alumni network. There is even a pathway to an accelerated master’s programme with Arizona State University, letting students earn both an undergraduate and master’s degree in five years.
Scholarship benefits
- Full coverage of all tuition fees.
- Room and board (housing and meals).
- Learning resources, including books and a laptop.
- Socio-economic support to ease the transition into university and into a career.
- Volunteer and community service opportunities.
- Access to Ashesi’s alumni network across 40+ countries and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars alumni network.
- Option to join the accelerated master’s programme with Arizona State University (undergraduate + master’s in five years).
- Funding lasts for the full duration of your undergraduate study at Ashesi.
Eligibility checklist
✔ You are a student from across Africa.
✔ You apply for admission to Ashesi University.
✔ You submit the general scholarship application.
✔ You can demonstrate academic excellence.
✔ You show clear leadership potential.
✔ You can demonstrate financial need.
✔ You are applying to one of Ashesi’s undergraduate programs (all programs are eligible).
✔ You are willing to serve as a role model and commit to community service and giving back.
Application tips for African students
- Start your Ashesi admission application early — the scholarship decision flows from your general application, so a strong, complete admission file matters most.
- Be specific about financial need. Gather accurate documents on your family’s income and circumstances rather than vague statements, since need is a stated selection factor.
- Make your leadership real. Point to concrete examples — a club you led, a project you started, a problem you solved in your community — instead of generic claims.
- Have your transcripts and certificates ready, certified, and translated into English if your school documents are in another language.
- Line up recommenders early. Choose teachers or mentors who can speak directly to your academics, character, and leadership, and give them plenty of notice.
- Tie your story to community service. The program expects scholars to give back, so show in your application that you already care about your community.
- Submit well before the deadline so technical issues or missing documents don’t cost you the chance.
How to apply
There is no separate Mastercard application to fill in — you apply for admission to Ashesi University and complete the general scholarship application. The Admissions and Financial Aid Office reviews your file and decides whether you qualify for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program award. For full details and to begin, visit the official page: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme at Ashesi University.
Frequently asked questions
How do I apply specifically for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship?
You don’t choose the scholarship directly. You apply for admission to Ashesi and submit the general scholarship application; the Admissions and Financial Aid Office determines from that information whether you may receive the Mastercard Foundation award.
What does the scholarship cover?
It is a fully funded award covering all tuition fees, room and board, and learning resources such as books and a laptop, plus additional socio-economic support to help you transition into Ashesi and into your career.
Who is eligible to apply?
Students from across Africa who are applying to any of Ashesi University’s undergraduate programs and who can demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need.
How long does the funding last?
The award covers the full duration of your undergraduate study at Ashesi University.
What is the deadline?
The application timeline listed is November 16, 2026. Confirm exact dates on the official Ashesi page before applying.
What is expected of scholars?
Scholars are expected to serve as role models for their communities across Africa, both as students and as alumni, and to commit to giving back through volunteer and community service.
Great opportunity. Let’s build Africa together