The University of Edinburgh MasterCard Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship opportunity designed to empower African students to pursue postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom. Backed by the MasterCard Foundation, this scholarship is committed to nurturing the next generation of African leaders by providing high-quality education, mentorship, and leadership development. The scholarship is available for Master’s degree programs and focuses on empowering scholars to address critical challenges like climate justice and community development in Africa.

Basic Information and Application Deadline

Host Country: United Kingdom
Host University: University of Edinburgh
Funding Organization: MasterCard Foundation
Study Level: Postgraduate (Master’s degree)
Eligible Applicants: Citizens of African countries
Application Deadline: November 7, 2025, at 5:00 PM UK time
Application Opening Date: October 1, 2025

Applicants must register and complete the first stage of the application by October 31, 2025, 5:00 PM UK time, with final submission by November 7, 2025.

University of Edinburgh Details

Founded in 1583, the University of Edinburgh is one of the world’s leading higher education institutions, renowned for its academic excellence and vibrant research community. The University is a hub for global scholarship and innovation, based in Scotland’s capital city. The campus provides a rich cultural experience and access to cutting-edge resources.

Study Areas Available

The scholarship supports a broad range of postgraduate programs, especially those aligned with the themes of leadership, climate justice, and development. Fields available include but are not limited to:

On-campus scholarship

Africa and International Development
Food Security
Sustainable Energy Systems
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Data, Inequality and Society
Operational Research
Environmental Sustainability
Climate Change Finance and Investment
Planetary Health
Environment and Development

Online postgraduate scholarships

International Development (Masters route only)
Global Food Security and Nutrition (Masters or Diploma)
Global Challenges (Masters or Diploma)
Climate Change 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)
Planetary Health (Masters or Diploma)
Future Infrastructure, Sustainability and Climate Change (Masters or Diploma)
Biodiversity, Wildlife and Ecosystem Health (Masters or Diploma)
Global Health and Infectious Diseases (Masters or Diploma)
Data-Driven Breeding and Genetics (Masters or Diploma)

University of Edinburgh MasterCard Scholarship Benefits

The University of Edinburgh MasterCard Scholarship offers comprehensive benefits to cover the entire educational journey:

On-Campus Scholarship

Covers tuition, accommodation, travel, stipend, and study materials
Full tuition fee coverage for the chosen Master’s program
Monthly living stipend to cover accommodation, meals, and other personal expenses
Travel allowances for arrival and departure
Climate Leadership Programme for community impact
Extra support for scholars with disabilities
Access to mentorship and coaching to enhance career development
Leadership training programs including workshops and seminars to build ethical leadership skills
Networking opportunities with industry experts, scholars, and global changemakers
Cultural immersion in the UK and participation in university-led development projects

Online Scholarship

Covers tuition fees only
Stipend for internet and laptop
In-person gathering + online workshops, coaching, and support
Dedicated Online Coordinator
Extra support for scholars with disabilities

Benefits Not Included

While the scholarship covers most academic and living expenses, some benefits are generally not included:

Personal travel unrelated to study or scholarship activities
Health insurance (unless separately specified)
Costs for dependents or family members
Possible visa and immigration-related fees

Eligibility Criteria for University of Edinburgh MasterCard Scholarship

To be eligible, applicants must satisfy the following:

Must qualify academically for admission to the University of Edinburgh (usually a UK 2:1 Bachelor’s degree or equivalent).
Must have graduated with an undergraduate degree and provide certificate + transcript by 7 November 2025.
Must be a resident, citizen, or hold refugee status in an African country (including North Africa).
Must be 35 or under when the programme starts (born on or after 1 Jan 1991 for 2026/27).
Must have faced significant barriers to education or career (social, financial, personal, health, practical).
Must show leadership and community service experience.
Must show experience or ambition in tackling the climate crisis.
Must not have completed a postgraduate degree or be enrolled at another university while on the scholarship.
Online Masters: same rule – no previous postgraduate degree or enrolment elsewhere.
Online Postgraduate Diploma: must hold either a Bachelor’s or Master’s from an African university (graduating by 7 Nov 2025).
Applications especially encouraged from women, refugees/displaced persons, and persons with disabilities.

Selection Criteria (for both)

Strong academic merit (eligible for University of Edinburgh admission)
Proven leadership and community service
Application aligns with climate justice theme
Potential positive impact in home country
Overcame significant barriers to education

Required Documents for Application

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:

Academic transcripts from previous education
Admission offer letter from the University of Edinburgh
Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing academic and leadership achievements
Two or more letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
Personal statement outlining goals, leadership experiences, and planned community impact
Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
Evidence of financial need or proof of overcoming educational/social barriers

University of Edinburgh MasterCard Scholarship Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Register online: Create an account and register for the scholarship by October 31, 2025
Complete eligibility screening: Submit the declaration and eligibility assessment
Prepare documents: Gather all required documents including admission offer and recommendation letters
Submit application: Complete the online application form on the University of Edinburgh MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program portal by November 7, 2025
Personal statement: Write a compelling essay focused on leadership, climate justice, and community development
Wait for assessment: University committees assess all submitted applications from November 2025 through January 2026
Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews in early 2026
Notification: Scholarship results announced; successful candidates receive further instructions

Tips for a Successful Application

Start preparations early to avoid last-minute constraints
Ensure your personal statement reflects the scholarship’s focus on leadership, climate justice, and social impact
Highlight any community service or work experience that demonstrates leadership potential
Provide clear evidence of academic excellence and financial need
Secure strong recommendation letters from credible sources who know your abilities well
Follow all application instructions meticulously and double-check your submission

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (Estimated in USD)

Living expenses for scholars in Edinburgh, UK, can vary but typically include:

Accommodation: $800 – $1,200
Food and groceries: $250 – $350
Transportation: $50 – $100
Books and supplies: $50 – $100
Personal expenses and leisure: $150 – $250

The scholarship’s monthly stipend is designed to adequately cover these typical costs.

Why Choose This Scholarship?

Fully funded: Covers tuition, living costs, and more, removing financial barriers to study abroad
World-class education: Study at the University of Edinburgh, a globally recognized university
Leadership development: Tailored programs to nurture ethical and impactful African leaders
Mentorship and networks: Access to mentors and a global community of scholars and changemakers
Focus on African development: Encourages return and contribution to positive change in scholars’ home countries

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Who can apply for this scholarship?
A: Citizens of African countries admitted to a Master’s degree at the University of Edinburgh.
Q: What is the application deadline?
A: November 7, 2025, at 5 PM UK time.
Q: Is English proficiency required?
A: Yes, applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements.
Q: Does the scholarship cover family members?
A: No, benefits apply only to the scholar.
Q: Can I apply if I already live in the UK?
A: The focus is on African students from their home countries, so residing in the UK may affect eligibility.
Q: What programs are covered?
A: Postgraduate Master’s programs across various fields including leadership, climate justice, policy, health, and more.

Official Link:

This fully funded University of Edinburgh MasterCard Scholarship 2026 represents a remarkable chance for African students to transform their futures, gain global exposure, and contribute to impactful change in their communities and continent. Interested candidates should prepare thoroughly and submit their applications on time to seize this life-changing opportunity.

University of Edinburgh MasterCard Scholarship 2026 in UK