If you are an African student with exceptional talent but limited financial resources, the CMU Africa Mastercard Scholarship 2026 offers you a fully funded pathway to achieve a world-class master’s degree. This scholarship supports young Africans with the passion, leadership potential, and drive to create meaningful change in their communities.

CMU Africa Mastercard Scholarship Summary

Host: Carnegie Mellon University Africa & Mastercard Foundation
Study Abroad: Study in Africa
Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships
Eligible Countries: African Countries
Reward: Full Scholarship | Living Expenses | Health Insurance
IELTS: Not Required
Deadline: January 15, 2026
Scholarship Alerts: To receive Scholarship Alerts on WhatsApp, click HERE

The CMU-Africa and Mastercard Foundation partnership provides comprehensive financial, academic, and social support to highly talented African students. The scholarship covers:

Full tuition
Living stipends
Travel costs
Accommodation
Laptop & study materials
Health insurance

Scholars complete master’s degrees in one of these programs at CMU Africa:

MS in Information Technology (MSIT)
MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering (MS ECE)
MS in Engineering Artificial Intelligence (MS EAI)

Graduates go on to lead innovation, shape public policy, build tech solutions, and drive development across Africa.

Scholarship Requirements

To be considered for the Carnegie Mellon University-Africa Mastercard Scholarship, applicants must demonstrate three major qualities:

Academic Talent
A strong academic background and clear commitment to learning.
Commitment to Giving Back
A history of volunteering, community engagement, or contributing to social development.
Potential to Lead
Strong leadership qualities and the ability to influence positive change in your community.

*Important:
You must first gain admission into one of CMU-Africa’s eligible master’s degree programs before you can be considered for the scholarship.

2026 CMU Africa Mastercard Scholarship Duration and Reward

The scholarship offers full financial support, including:

Application preparation support
Orientation
Tuition and university fees
Health insurance
Travel and basic living expenses
Entrepreneurship and project support
Academic and wellness resources

This combination ensures that scholars excel academically while staying supported throughout their studies.

How To Apply for CMU Africa Mastercard Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step)

Follow the two-step process below:

Step 1: Apply to a CMU Africa Degree Program

Submit an application to one of the following master’s programs:

MSIT
MS ECE
MS EAI

*Tip:
If you submit your program application by December 15, CMU will cover your test fees.

Step 2: Complete Competency Tests

After submitting your program application, complete all required tests as instructed.

Step 3: Visit the CMU Mastercard Foundation Scholars Webpage

Click the green button below to proceed to the official scholarship portal and begin the Scholars Program application.

The CMU Africa Mastercard Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious fully funded opportunities available to African students pursuing tech and engineering master’s programs. With world-class training, complete financial support, and leadership development, this scholarship prepares you to make a lasting impact in Africa and beyond.