France Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarships For Africans 2026: Fully Funded Opportunity to Study in Europe
The Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarships in Paris, France, offer an exceptional chance for talented students from Sub-Saharan Africa to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree with comprehensive benefits such as tuition, monthly stipends, accommodation, and airfare. This scholarship program aims to empower future African leaders committed to public policy and societal transformations, supporting the Mastercard Foundation’s vision of nurturing change-makers across the continent.
If you are passionate about creating sustainable impact and meet the eligibility criteria, this article will guide you through all essential details including benefits, requirements, application steps, and deadlines.
Overview of Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarships
- Location: Paris, France
- Type: Fully Funded Postgraduate Scholarship
- Eligible Countries: Sub-Saharan African countries
- Fields of Study: Social sciences and related disciplines focused on public policy and societal issues
- Languages: Programmes taught in French, English, or both
- Deadline: January 4, 2026
- No IELTS Requirement
The scholarship is part of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program that collaborates with top institutions including Sciences Po and elite UK universities to provide African students with access to world-class education.
Why Choose the Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarship?
The program is designed to support students who show not only academic excellence but also leadership potential and a drive to tackle Africa’s key challenges. It aligns with the Mastercard Foundation’s strategic initiative, Young Africa Works, which aims to enable 30 million young Africans to find dignified employment or start enterprises by 2030.
Since 2017, 138 scholars from Sub-Saharan Africa have enrolled at Sciences Po through this partnership, joining a network of future leaders equipped with skills for meaningful change in their home countries.
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Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all the following requirements:
- Legal resident or citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Commitment to impacting Africa’s political, environmental, or societal transitions.
- Proven financial need (verified documentation required).
- Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent completed by the academic year starting.
- Applying for a two-year Master’s degree at Sciences Po’s seven Graduate Schools (one-year or joint degrees are excluded).
- Language proficiency: Minimum C1 level in English or French depending on chosen program.
- Under 35 years old at the start of study.
- Not currently pursuing or holding any prior Master’s degree.
- Recommendation letter from an academic advisor.
Benefits of the Scholarship
Scholars receive a comprehensive package covering:
- Full tuition fees.
- Monthly living stipends.
- Accommodation in Paris reserved for scholars.
- Airfare to and from France.
- Pre-departure and arrival support, including official welcome programs.
- Personalized academic and welfare support throughout the study period.
- Career guidance focused on African employment markets.
- Access to Sciences Po’s business incubator, alumni network, and mentoring by African graduates.
- Participation in internships, conferences, and workshops facilitating smooth transition into employment.
Application Documents Required
Prepare the following for your application:
- Personal information form.
- Letter of recommendation from your university (academic advisor).
- Official evidence of financial status.
- Academic transcripts and records.
- Statement outlining your experiences related to Africa’s issues and your plan to effect change on the continent.
How to Apply for the Sciences Po MasterCard Scholarship 2026
Step 1: Request Eligibility Check
Submit your details on the scholarship website for eligibility assessment. If eligible, you will receive a fee waiver for the Sciences Po application.
Step 2: Apply to Sciences Po
While waiting for eligibility approval, begin your application to Sciences Po following their international graduate procedure. Submit your application after confirming eligibility and fee waiver.
Step 3: Await Admission and Scholarship Result
Sciences Po admission results will be released in mid-February 2026. Scholarship results will follow in mid-March 2026. Note that admission does not guarantee the scholarship, and deferral forfeits your scholarship.
Related Opportunities and Resources
Interested students can explore more opportunities in Europe and beyond through these related categories on NaijOnline:
Other popular scholarships to consider:
These options offer similarly competitive opportunities for African students seeking international education.
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program partners with leading universities to provide talented African youth with high-quality education. Its mission is both educational and transformative, focusing on the social and economic development of Africa through skilled graduates.
The program supports not only tuition but a holistic experience including mentorship, career counseling, and post-graduate networks to ensure lasting impact.
Final Thoughts and Tips for Applicants
This scholarship is ideal for students passionate about driving change in Africa while gaining world-class education in social sciences. Start preparing your documents early, especially your impact statement and recommendation letter, to stand out.
