The Sciences Po Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 offers a prestigious, fully funded opportunity to outstanding students from Africa to pursue a Master’s degree in France. This scholarship is designed to empower future leaders from African countries by providing full financial support and tailored academic resources at Sciences Po, one of Europe’s top universities. Below is a complete guide covering all essential details about the scholarship, key benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and much more.
Basic Information and Application Deadline
The application platform for the 2026-2028 Sciences Po Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program opens in early October 2025. The application deadline to apply for both Sciences Po Master’s programmes and this scholarship is 4th January 2026. Admission decisions from Sciences Po will be released between mid-December 2025 and early April 2026 depending on the application round. Scholarship allocation decisions will be announced in early May 2026. The Master’s programmes for selected candidates will commence at the end of August 2026.
- Scholarship for African students admitted to a Master’s programme at Sciences Po (France).
- Covers full financial support for the two years of the Master’s program.
- Not available for dual degrees or one-year Master’s programs.
University/Institution Details
Sciences Po is a prestigious international university in Paris, France, specializing in social sciences education, research, and training. This globally recognized institution produces leaders in public policy, international relations, and related fields. The scholarship applies exclusively to students admitted into Master’s degree programmes (not dual-degree or one-year Master’s) at Sciences Po’s Graduate Schools.
Available Study Areas and Programs
Candidates can apply to any Master’s programme at Sciences Po, with the exception of dual degrees or one-year Masters. The programmes are interdisciplinary and cover a broad range of social sciences including political science, international relations, economics, law, public policy, environmental studies, and development studies. The courses are offered in English and French, ensuring accessibility to diverse African students.
Sciences Po MasterCard Foundation Scholarship Benefits
The Sciences Po Mastercard Foundation Scholarship covers:
- Full tuition fees for the entire Master’s programme duration (two years)
- Monthly stipend to cover living expenses, including food and daily necessities
- Reserved housing accommodation in Paris for scholars
- Health insurance for comprehensive medical coverage
- Travel costs including visa fees, round-trip flight tickets, and settling-in expenses
- Application fee waiver for Sciences Po admissions
- Tailored pre-departure support, official welcome programs, and personalized academic guidance
- Career services including internships, career fairs focused on Africa, entrepreneurship training, and networking opportunities
- A mentoring programme co-managed with Sciences Po’s Africa Division Alumni network
- Access to Sciences Po’s extensive academic resources and interdisciplinary research centers
Benefits Not Included
The scholarship does not cover non-study related personal expenses beyond the monthly stipend and specific allowances listed above. Scholars must manage additional discretionary expenses independently.
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Eligibility Criteria for Sciences Po MasterCard Foundation Scholarship
To qualify for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an African country (no non-African second citizenship)
- Be under 35 years old at the start of the Master’s
- Not already hold a Master’s degree
- Be admitted to a Master’s programme at Sciences Po
- Have studied at:
- A Sciences Po partner institution, or
- A Mastercard Foundation partner/bridging programme
- Show financial need
- Demonstrate commitment to positive change in Africa
- Financial need (proof required).
- Strong commitment to positive change in Africa (policy, society, environment, etc.).
Admission Requirements (Sciences Po)
- Excellent undergraduate results (≈ 70–80% minimum)
- Complete application (missing documents = automatic rejection)
- Admission to a Master’s is mandatory for scholarship consideration
- Only the international admission procedure is valid
Selection Criteria
- Strong match between:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Chosen Master’s programme
- Career goals
- Strong critical thinking on global and African issues
- Evidence of leadership, ambition, and social impact
- Authentic motivation (misuse of AI is discouraged)
- Special consideration for:
- Refugees
- Displaced persons
- Persons with disabilities
Required Documents for Application
Candidates must prepare the following documents well before submission:
- Valid photo identification (passport)
- Academic transcripts and diploma certificates from undergraduate studies
- Proof of financial need: tax notices, income statements, scholarship certificates (bank statements are not accepted)
- Proof of enrollment or graduation from a recognized Bachelor’s institution or bridging programme
- Language proficiency proof (English or French) as applicable
- Letters of recommendation and a compelling motivation letter addressing the candidate’s background, goals, and impact aspirations
- Any relevant certificates for scholarships currently or previously received (if applicable)
Sciences Po MasterCard Foundation Scholarship Application Process Step-by-Step
- Apply to a Sciences Po Master’s programme (via the international graduate admissions platform).
- Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the same time.
- No application fee if eligible for the scholarship.
- Must submit all required documents (transcripts, recommendations, financial proof, etc.).
- Incomplete applications are rejected.
Evaluation & Selection
- Step 1: Admission to Sciences Po Master’s programme.
- Step 2: Separate evaluation for Mastercard Foundation scholarship.
- Step 3: Shortlisted candidates invited for an online interview.
- Step 4: Final decision in May 2026 by the selection committee.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start preparing your documents early, especially financial proofs as they can take time to secure.
- Write a genuine and clear motivation letter emphasizing your leadership potential and commitment to Africa’s development.
- Highlight academic achievements and show alignment between your background and chosen Master’s programme.
- Avoid using AI tools to generate application essays; authenticity is highly valued.
- Obtain strong letters of recommendation from academic or professional mentors.
- Demonstrate critical thinking and passion for societal change in your answers.
- Double-check eligibility requirements to ensure your application will qualify.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in France (USD)
- Accommodation: $600–$1000 (depending on location/type)
- Food and groceries: $300–$400
- Transportation: $40–$60 (monthly public transport pass)
- Health insurance: Usually covered by scholarship, else approx. $20–$50
- Miscellaneous (mobile, leisure, study supplies): $150–$200
Total average monthly living expenses range between $1100 and $1700, comfortably covered by the scholarship’s stipend.
Why Choose This Scholarship?
- Full financial coverage removing all tuition and living cost barriers.
- Access to a world-class university with a global reputation in social sciences.
- Tailored academic and career support enhancing employability and leadership skills.
- Access to a vibrant alumni network and mentoring in Africa-focused impact projects.
- Opportunity to study alongside talented peers from diverse African countries fostering cross-cultural learning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I apply if I have dual citizenship outside Africa?
A: No. You must solely hold citizenship from an African country to be eligible.
Q: Are there language requirements?
A: Yes, proficiency in English or French is required depending on the chosen Master’s program.
Q: Can current Sciences Po students apply?
A: No, current students cannot apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Q: Is there an age limit?
A: Yes, applicants must be under 35 years old at the Master’s start date.
Q: What happens if I am admitted to Sciences Po but not the scholarship?
A: You must find alternative funding to join the Master’s programme.
Key Dates (2026–2028 Intake)
- Application opens: Early October 2025
- Application deadline: 4 January 2026
- Admission results (Sciences Po): Dec 2025 – April 2026
- Scholarship results: Early May 2026
- Classes start: End of August 2026
Official Link:
This comprehensive guide offers everything prospective applicants need to know about the Sciences Po Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 in France. For ambitious African students aiming to make an impact, this fully funded scholarship paves the way for a transformative educational and leadership journey at one of Europe’s best institutions.
