Pursue a World-Class Postgraduate Degree Online with a Full Scholarship
Are you an exceptional young leader from Africa, passionate about creating change but facing barriers to further education? The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh is offering life-changing online postgraduate scholarships for the 2026/27 academic year.
This unique program is designed to empower the next generation of African leaders by providing fully-funded online degrees from one of the world’s top universities. If you have a strong academic record and a commitment to making a difference, this could be your opportunity to advance your skills without leaving your community or career.
What Scholarships Are Available?
The scholarships cover a range of critical, future-focused fields. You can apply for either an online Masters (part-time, up to three years) or an online postgraduate diploma (part-time, up to two years) in the following programs:
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Biodiversity, Wildlife and Ecosystem Health
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Climate Change Management (Masters only)
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Data-Driven Breeding and Genetics
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Data Science Technologies (Masters only)
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Digital Education
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Global Challenges
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Global Food Security and Nutrition
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Global Health and Infectious Diseases
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International Development (Masters only)
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One Health
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Social Justice and Community Action
Why Choose an Online Scholarship with Edinburgh?
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Prestigious Qualification: Online degrees from the University of Edinburgh are equivalent in value to those taught on campus.
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Flexibility: Continue working and study from your local context, making world-class education accessible.
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Climate Leadership: All scholars will participate in a dedicated Climate Leadership Programme, gaining the skills to address the climate crisis through sustainable entrepreneurship and innovation.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
This is a comprehensive scholarship designed to remove all financial barriers:
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Full tuition fees
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An academic stipend for a laptop and high-quality internet
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Participation in an in-person gathering and the Climate Enterprise School
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Regular online workshops, coaching, and support
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Dedicated Online Coordinator and transition support
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Additional support for Scholars with disabilities
Who Can Apply?
The program seeks exceptional young people who:
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Have overcome significant barriers to their education.
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Demonstrate great academic and leadership potential.
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Are committed to returning to their communities to drive change.
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Hold an undergraduate or Master’s degree from an African university and will have graduated by the application deadline.
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Qualify academically for admission to the University of Edinburgh.
Key Application Dates for 2026/27 Entry
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Applications Open: 14 October 2025, 10:00 AM (BST)
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Information Session: 16 October 2025, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM (BST) – A must-attend for serious applicants!
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Application Deadline: To be confirmed (Apply as soon as possible after the portal opens)
How to Apply: A Critical First Step
Important Note: Do not apply to the University for your degree yet. The process has two stages:
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Apply for the Scholarship First: Submit your scholarship application through the Mastercard Foundation portal when it opens on October 14, 2025.
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Apply for the Degree Later: Only if you receive a successful scholarship offer in March 2026, will you then be invited to formally apply for your chosen degree programme at the University.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
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Mark Your Calendar for the application opening date and the information session.
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Prepare Your Documents in advance, including your degree certificates and transcripts.
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Review the FAQs and utilize the Application Guidance on the portal when it becomes available.
For any queries not answered in the FAQs, please contact: mcfsp@ed.ac.uk.
Don’t miss this chance to join a compassionate community of leaders dedicated to building a more sustainable and equitable future. Your postgraduate journey with the University of Edinburgh awaits!
