The University of Edinburgh is excited to announce that applications are now open for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for the 2025/2026 academic year. This opportunity is designed for exceptional young individuals who have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership skills while overcoming significant barriers to their education.
Why Choose Online Learning?
Online studies offer a flexible path to earning a qualification, allowing students to continue working while studying in their local context. The online qualifications from the University of Edinburgh are equivalent to on-campus degrees, ensuring the same quality of education.
Program Options
Applicants can choose from two online study formats:
- Online Masters (Part-time over 3 years)
- Online Postgraduate Diploma (Part-time over 2 years)
Online Masters
This program is ideal for those who have completed an undergraduate degree and wish to gain specialized knowledge in their field. Note that applicants with a postgraduate qualification are not eligible for the online Masters.
Online Postgraduate Diploma
Designed for individuals considering a career change, this program is more vocational in nature. Candidates can apply with either an undergraduate or Master’s degree from a Sub-Saharan African university, as long as they will graduate by the application deadline.
Available Programs
The following courses are offered through the program:
- International Development (Masters route only)
- Global Food Security and Nutrition (Masters or Diploma)
- Global Challenges (Masters or Diploma)
- Carbon Management (Masters route only)
- One Health (Masters or Diploma)
- Circular Economy (Masters or Diploma)
- Sustainable Lands and Cities (Masters or Diploma)
- Social Justice and Community Action (Masters or Diploma)
Eligibility Requirements
To apply, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Academic qualifications: Generally, a UK Second Class (Upper) Bachelor’s (Hons) degree or equivalent.
- Overcome significant barriers to education (social, financial, personal, practical, or health-related).
- Hold an undergraduate degree with certificates and transcripts uploaded by November 8, 2024.
- Be a resident and citizen or hold refugee status in a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Demonstrate a track record of leadership and community service.
- Show experience or ambition in addressing the climate crisis.
- Be 35 years old or younger as of the program’s start date (born on or after January 1, 1990).
Additional Notes
- Online Masters applicants must not have previously completed a postgraduate degree or be enrolled at another university.
- Online Postgraduate Diploma applicants can have either an undergraduate or Master’s degree from a Sub-Saharan African university.
- Applications from female scholars, refugees, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged.
Benefits of the Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers several benefits:
- Full coverage of approved tuition fees.
- An academic stipend for high-quality internet access and a laptop.
- Opportunities to attend in-person gatherings.
- Participation in the Climate Leadership Programme, including online workshops and coaching.
- Dedicated support from an Online Coordinator.
- Additional assistance for scholars with disabilities, based on individual needs.
Selection Process
The selection criteria for applicants include:
- Academic merit and qualifications for admission to the University of Edinburgh.
- A demonstrated history of transformative leadership and community service.
- The quality of the application in relation to climate justice themes.
- Potential impact on the applicant’s home country.
- Experience overcoming barriers to education.
How to Apply
To apply for the program, applicants must first qualify for admission to the University of Edinburgh. It is essential to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program before submitting an application to the University.
For more details on how to apply and the specific requirements, please visit the University of Edinburgh’s official website. Don’t miss this opportunity to empower your future through education.
